Physics (MSc)
About the programme
The MSc programme Physics offers 5 research-oriented specialisations where you can focus on Theoretical Physics, Quantum Matter and Optics, Biological and Soft Matter, Cosmology or Casimir pre-PhD. You can also combine Physics with education, management or science communication.
Programme overview
The MSc Physics programme offers eight specialisations:
- Theoretical Physics: you follow a two-year programme constisting of 3/5ths of coursework and one 9month long project that prepares you for scientific research towards a PhD in a broad range of topics in theoretical Physics.
- Quantum Matter and Optics: you follow a programme in experimental physics constisting of 50% course work and 2 research projects in Condensed Matter problems.
- Biological and Soft Matter Physics: you follow a programme in experimental physics consisting of 50% coursework and 2 research projects in Biophysics or Soft Matter.
- Cosmology: You follow a joined programme with the department of Astronomy where you cover all aspects of modern astrophysics and carry out research projects tackling observation, interpretation, simulation and theory.
- Casimir pre-PhD: After entry to one of the Experimental or Theoretical Physics specialisations, you can be selected to the program that gives you the opportunity to raise the funds for a PhD on a topic of choice within the Casimir Research School (a collaboration between the University of Leiden and the Technical University of Delft) .
- Physics and Business Studies: You combine a training in Physics (1 year of courses and research project) with courses in business and entrepreneurship and an internship with a company
- Physics and Education (in Dutch): You combine a training in Physics (1 year of courses and research project) with courses in education and a teaching internship at a Dutch highschool. It leads to a teaching qualification valid for secondary education.
- Physics and Science Communication and Society (SCS): You combine a training in Physics (1 year of coursework and research project) with courses in communication and relating science to the public.
The research-oriented master’s specialisations consist of two components: courses and research. Depending on your specialisation, the programme consists of:
- Mandatory courses (15-30 EC)
- Electives (27-45 EC)
- One or two research projects (48-60 EC)
Find out more about the research-oriented specialisations:
These three specialisations combine at least one year of the Physics research curriculum (minimally 60 EC) with training to prepare you for specific science-related careers (minimally 45 EC).
Find out more about the mixed specialisations:
Educational methods
- Lectures
- Working groups
- Presentations
- Individual papers
- Colloquium
- Lab work
- Literature study
Study guidance
The Physics MSc programme has a small intake and a relatively large staff to student ratio. It can thus afford to provide students with individualized attention. The study programme is discussed and decided with the Study Advisor who remains a reference point throughout the programme. Interaction during classes is informal and strongly encouraged. Besides direct interaction with the lecturer, classes are supported by PhD students and often post-docs. Interaction during the research project(s) is direct and informal and takes place within a small group of which an MSc student is integral part. There are regular group meetings. Interaction often extends outside office hours and incorporates social events.