About

What is the Master of Physics at KU Leuven all about?

The programme aims to train physicists capable of working in research institutes or corporate environments. Upon successful completion of the programme, students will have acquired:

• thorough knowledge of physics in general as well as more in-depth knowledge of at least one specialized area;
• the ability to make sound judgments informed by current research;
• the ability to gain new insights and results and to develop new methods;
• the ability to solve physical problems using the most appropriate experimental and/or theoretical methods and to report on research findings;
• the ability to structure and analyse specific problems in different situations;
• strong teamwork skills;
• the ability to communicate findings and insights;
• a critical understanding of the role that physics plays in society.

This is an initial Master's programme and can be followed on a full-time or part-time basis.

Career perspectives

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at KU Leuven generates substantial research funding. Consequently, many research positions are available, and more than half the students obtaining a master’s degree in physics eventually start a PhD programme in one of the department’s research groups.

A number of graduates prefer to pursue a second master’s degree, with medical radiation physics, environmental sciences, and statistics as the most popular subjects. There are also excellent career opportunities in industry (ICT, material research, electronics), consulting, government, banking (statistics), and higher education. Unemployment is nonexistent among newly graduated physicists.