Physics

Knowledge of the physical world has been imparted to the students of Leipzig University since it was founded in 1409. In 1557, the first professorship of physics in Leipzig was created, and in 1871, one of the first chairs for geography in Germany was set up at Leipzig University. In the 20th century, the field of physics flourished in Leipzig with researchers such as Otto Wiener, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich Boltzmann, Werner Heisenberg, and Gustav Hertz. Today, the subject of physics is offered in German and English. More than 1,500 students from about 40 countries are working towards the coveted degrees at the Department of Physics and Earth Sciences. The MSc programme in physics deepens and widens the basic knowledge in modern areas of experimental and theoretical physics, always building on the knowledge obtained in a BSc course in physics. Furthermore, the students have the possibility to specialise in topical areas of physics, which also include subjects other than physics. Each student can design her or his MSc course according to her or his own interests, such that at the time of graduation, she or he will be a specialist in biophysics, quantum technologies, soft and active matter, theoretical condensed matter, mathematical physics, or applied physics and materials . To this end, the Peter Debye Institute for Soft Matter Physics, the Felix Bloch Institute for Solid State Physics, and the Institute of Theoretical Physics as well as the external Leibniz Institute of Surface Modification offer a wide variety of modules and research topics. The MSc programme is research oriented and is concluded by an independent research project, the Master’s thesis. By teaching a broad variety of knowledge and methodical competences, it ideally prepares the graduates for an excellent start in the job market, which will present great challenges with its rapidly changing demands in the future. The MSc degree in physics completes the students' university education and represents the level of a German "Diplom" degree. The academic degree qualifies students to apply for admission to doctoral work (thesis research). Traditional work-related areas of physicists include microelectronics, construction of scientific and medical devices, fine mechanics, engineering, optics, chemical industry, informatics, and communication technology. Due to their familiarity with analytical research concepts and problem-solving strategies, physicists often take on jobs in other fields that are not directly related to physics.