Physics, Master Programme

120 credits

This degree provides an excellent basis for those wishing to pursue Ph.D. studies in physics, or for those aiming for work in industries requiring advanced mathematical, computational and problem-solving skills or a background in material science, quantum technology and nanotechnology. The degree programme commences with a semester of general courses, followed by 4-6 ten-week elective courses where you have the choice of studying subjects such as theoretical physics, condensed matter physics, quantum computation and nanoscience. The degree programme is completed with a Master thesis project (with a duration of 20, 30 or 40 weeks) within the physics research group in Kalmar. The programme can be carried out either on campus in Kalmar or entirely by distance learning.

A Master’s Degree in Physics prepares you with competence in Physics to meet the needs of society and academia. The programme at Linnaeus University provides a strong background in theoretical physics with emphasis on condensed matter physics and nanophysics.

The students enrolled in the programme benefit from individual mentoring by the instructors, who are all experienced teachers and active researchers. During their studies, the students will work closely with the instructors on ongoing research projects actively pursued in the department.

Many previous graduates have been successful in competing for Ph.D. studentships at universities around the globe, and others have entered into successful careers in industry.

We also have an agreement with the University of Insubria in Como (Italy) which offers a similar programme. This allows you to choose among a large variety of elective physics courses and access to research fields complementary to the ones present at LNU. Furthermore, the agreement gives you the possibility of studying one or two semesters in Como and to apply for a double Master degree, that is, a Master degree granted by both LNU and the University of Insubria.

Career

A Master’s degree in Physics from Linnaeus University paves the way for a career in research or industry. Our past students now work in physics related positions either in academic research studies, e.g. Ph.D. studies, or in industry.

Degree

Degree of Master of Science (120 credits)

Main field of study: Physics

GENERAL COURSES (first semester): choose 4 courses out of the following 5: mathematical methods for physics, computational physics I, classical electrodynamics, quantum mechanics, statistical physics.

ELECTIVE COURSES (examples): Advanced quantum mechanics; advanced condensed matter physics; quantum transport in nanostructures; density functional theory with applications in condensed matter physics; quantum theory of many-particle systems; introduction to quantum computing.

Template for the Statement of Purpose intended for individual assessment to be included in the programme application.

Statement-of-purpose_general_ftk_masters.docx

Yann has always been fascinated by physics

Yann Gimbal-Zofka from Geneva, Switzerland studies on the master programme in physics, at a distance. Yann has been fascinated by physics since he was a little boy. Something that has had a great impact on his interest in physics and on his career choice are all the visits he has made to CERN, the world’s largest particle physics laboratory, located in Geneva.

Read the interview with Yann

Why did you choose to study the master programme in physics?

– One reason was that I’ve heard so much good about the Swedish education system. Many of my friends have also studied in Sweden and they have all been very pleased with their teachers, and said that they are good at teaching.

What is interesting about your programme?

– Since I study at a distance, all lectures are given using a video conference system, which makes it possible to interact directly with the teachers. To study at a distance requires a lot of self-discipline, but to me it has also meant a lot of flexibility and that I’ve had the possibility to organise my studies the way I want. Studying at a distance has made me more independent and I believe that’s good preparation since I’m planning on continuing to study a PhD programme. Through the programme, the opportunity has also presented itself for me to study for another degree at University of Insubria in Italy.

You did an internship in Paris, tell us more about that!

– I got the opportunity to write my master thesis within the field together with a professor from University of Insubria. Since his laboratory was located in Paris, that’s where I did my internship. During my internship, I got the opportunity to work with professional researchers within a very specific field as well as with doctoral students.

Has the programme been what you expected it to be?

– The programme has exceeded my expectations. The quality of the programme is high and the teachers are very competent and willing to share their knowledge and experience. One thing that I’ve truly appreciated is the close relationship between teachers and students. It is possible to ask the teachers questions that lead to constructive discussions.

What would you like to do once you have completed your studies?

– The plan is to continue studying, on a PhD programme. So right now I’m trying to find such a programme that would suit me. At the moment I don’t have a specific dream job, but I know that I want to work within the field of physics – it’s so inspiring! I would also like to be at a workplace where I can learn new things every day.

Distance – study where you are

Perhaps you would like to study in the Swedish mountains, in a big city, or at home close to family? Many of our programmes and courses are offered in distance format.

Studying at a distance can be done in different ways, either entirely without physical gatherings or with only a few gatherings on campus or at one of our learning centres. The common denominator is that a large part of your studies takes place online. You communicate with the teacher and other students with the help of a learning platform with discussion forums, group work, recorded lectures and online meetings.

The benefit of distance studies is the flexibility, something that is valuable if you want to be free to decide when and where you want to study. Some compulsory elements on you course or programme may take place during office hours, even though they are online.

Learn more about studying at a distance.