A Master of Science in Physics at the University of Bern

If you hold an international Bachelor’s degree and are considering moving to Bern to pursue a Master of Science in Physics, you will find all relevant information on this page.

Prospective PhD candidates interested in pursuing doctoral studies in Bern are encouraged to consult the webpages of the department’s institutes and to contact the research group leaders directly.

Science in Bern

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Bern conducts cutting-edge research across a wide range of fields, including astronomy and space research, biomedical physics, climate and environmental physics, experimental and theoretical particle physics, as well as laser and microwave physics. Research within the department is organised across four institutes.

with the last institute consisting of three divisions.

In addition, the department is home to three research centers:

Members of the department also participate in two Swiss National Centers of Competence in Research (NCCR): MUST (Molecular Ultrafast Science and Technology) and PlanetS (origins, evolution and characterization of planets).

At the University of Bern, the Master’s thesis is regarded as a first step towards a career in science and as an important phase of academic development, during which students learn how research is conducted in practice. For this reason, 50% of the total ECTS credits are allocated to the Master’s thesis.

Prerequisites

The Master’s programme is taught in English; therefore, a sufficient command of the language is required, although no formal language certificate is necessary. Knowledge of German is advantageous for everyday life and social integration, but it is not a requirement for admission.

Applicants must hold an internationally recognised university Bachelor’s degree. Admission requires a formal application submitted to the University Admissions Office, including the required documentation (see link below). An application fee must also be paid.

If you are unsure whether your Bachelor’s degree meets the admission requirements, you are encouraged to contact the Physics Student Administration Office for advice before submitting your application:

• Mrs Kathrin Weyeneth
  E-Mail: kathrin.weyeneth@space.unibe.ch
  Telephone: +41 31 684 44 04

Detailed information on the application and admission process, including the required documents, can be found here.

Courses and Program

The Master’s degree program at the University of Bern extends over three semesters and comprises a total of 90 ECTS credits. The program can be started in either the fall or the spring semester. Students may choose a specialization in experimental physics, theoretical physics, or astronomy.

Further information about the Master’s program in Physics can be found here. Please also consult the course  courses descriptions for the Master’s program, which reflect the department’s main research areas.