Overview

The MSc in Physics and Astronomy is a joint degree offered by the University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. This two-year programme combines theoretical, experimental and computational approaches, preparing you to tackle fundamental questions in physics and astronomy as well as real-world applications. You will complete core and elective courses before undertaking an extensive research project within internationally renowned institutes such as LaserLaB, Nikhef, AMOLF, ARCNL and the Anton Pannekoek Institute.

You can tailor your studies by choosing from several specialised tracks:

Advanced Matter and Energy Physics – investigate ultra-cold atoms, quantum materials, nanophotonic systems, soft condensed matter and energy-related materials.
Astronomy and Astrophysics – explore phenomena from gamma-ray bursts to planet formation, using ground- and space-based observatories and advanced simulations.
Biophysics and Biophotonics – work at the interface of physics and life sciences, studying DNA mechanics, biomedical imaging and photonics.
Gravitation, Astro- and Particle Physics (GRAPPA) – study dark matter, cosmology and particle physics, contributing to experiments at CERN and other leading facilities.
Science for Energy and Sustainability (SfES) – integrate physics, chemistry, policy and business to address global energy and sustainability challenges.
Theoretical Physics – focus on quantum field theory, statistical physics, condensed matter theory, quantum gravity and relativity through advanced coursework and research.

Throughout the programme, you benefit from close supervision, personalised guidance in track selection, and collaboration with cutting-edge research groups in Amsterdam. The degree culminates in a substantial Master’s thesis based on your chosen specialisation.

Graduates are highly sought after for PhD positions worldwide, as well as careers in industry, consultancy, policy, or education, depending on their expertise and track.

Programme Structure

The two-year joint MSc in Physics and Astronomy at the University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is structured around track-based specialisation and research training. At the start of the programme, students select one of seven tracks: Advanced Matter and Energy Physics, Astronomy and Astrophysics, Biophysics and Biophotonics, General Physics and Astronomy (with an optional Computational Physics of Complex Systems route), Gravitation, Astro- and Particle Physics (GRAPPA), Science for Energy and Sustainability (SfES), or Theoretical Physics. Each track combines compulsory core courses with restricted-choice electives to deepen expertise, alongside free electives that allow for broader academic exploration.

In the first year, students focus on coursework within their chosen track, building a strong foundation in advanced physics and astronomy while beginning to engage with the research environment. The second year centres on independent research: students carry out a substantial project, usually embedded in one of Amsterdam’s internationally renowned research institutes, and complete the programme with a Master’s thesis and final presentation. This structure ensures a balance between academic breadth, in-depth specialisation, and hands-on research experience.

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-06-30 00:00:00 , National
- Apply before 2026-06-30 00:00:00 , EEA/EU
Starting 2027-09-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-31 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

Credits

120 ECTS

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Disciplines

Physics Astronomy & Space Sciences Natural Sciences View 54 other Masters in Physics in Netherlands

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

Applicants must hold an academic Bachelor's degree in Astronomy and/or Physics.

You have an overall grade point average (GPA) equivalent to at least: 3.0 (American system), 2.1 (a second class upper/division one degree in the British system) ,C (ECTS-system)

English language proficiency

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

26000 EUR / year

≈ 26000 EUR / year
EU/EEA Applies to you

Applies to you

EU/EEA Nationals

2695 EUR / year

≈ 2695 EUR / year

Additional Details

https://www.uva.nl/en/education/fees-and-funding/tuition-fees/tuition-fees.html

Living costs

Amsterdam

Netherlands

1000 - 1500 EUR / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Physics and Astronomy.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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