Programme objective
The MSc programme in Theoretical Physics Theoretical Physics at Utrecht University Utrecht University provides students with a broad overview of methods and topics in theoretical physics and teaches them to work independently in a specific sub-discipline of the field. Students also learn to present and discuss their work both orally and in writing, and to take a critical attitude towards the existing literature.
The programme offers excellent preparation for further research studies in physics or careers in the international job market. Two-thirds of our graduates continue on to conduct PhD-level research either at Utrecht University or at other prestigious institutions around the world.
The highly rated research programme will equip you with the knowledge and skills to desbribe space-time and elementary particles as well as macroscopic and microscopic phenomena in quantum and soft matter.
Career
The Master’s degree in Theoretical Physics offers a solid basis for many interesting careers, including that of a researcher for multinational corporations such as Philips and Shell, a consultant in information technology, a financial analyst for banks or insurance companies, and a scientific journalist.
Accredited by the NVAO - Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders
Curriculum:
Two required courses, Quantum Field Theory and Statistical Field Theory, run in parallel in the fall semester and form the basis of several courses taught during the Spring semester.
The remainder of the first year consists of elective courses, with at least three primary electives from theoretical physics, one from mathematics, and two secondary electives from the natural sciences (including theoretical physics, experimental physics, mathematics, computer science, chemistry, etc.).
In the fall semester of the second year, students participate in the Student Seminar, where they sharpen soft skills such as literature searches, discussion, oral and written presentation, etc., in a theoretical physics context. Students devote most of their time during their second year to the thesis research project, possibly while taking additional (advanced) lecture courses.
Starting in
You can apply until:
International
EEA/EU
Starting in
You can apply until:
Always verify the dates on the programme website.
You only need to take one of these language tests:
Minimum required score:
The TOEFL iBT ® measures your English-language abilities in an academic setting. The test has four sections (reading, listening, speaking, and writing), each with a score range of 0-30, for a total score range of 0-120. Read more about TOEFL iBT ®.
Schedule TOEFL®Minimum required score:
The IELTS – or the International English Language Test System – tests your English-language abilities (writing, listening, speaking, and reading) on a scale of 1.00–9.00. The minimum IELTS score requirement refers to which Overall Band Score you received, which is your combined average score. Read more about IELTS.
Schedule IELTSMinimum required score (Grade B):
C1 Advanced is a Cambridge English Qualification. It reports on the Cambridge English Scale between 142 and 210. You will receive a separate score for each of the four skills (reading, writing, listening and speaking) and for Use of English. These five scores are averaged to give you an overall result for the exam. Universities and colleges may ask you to achieve a specific score, either overall or for a particular skill.
Note: degree programmes and applications may require a more specific minimum score for admission.
You are able to express yourself in proficient English, both orally and in written text, as evidenced by your motivation letter and/or writing sample, and the interview that is part of the selection procedure.
For more information about tuition fees and exemptions have a look at the programme website.
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Scholarships, fellowships, and grants offered by Utrecht University, the Dutch government, and other organisations can help fund your studies at the university. You can begin your search for funding by reviewing the list below, which contains some of the scholarships and loans available to international students:
StudyPortals Tip: Students can search online for independent or external scholarships that can help fund their studies. Check the scholarships to see whether you are eligible to apply. Many scholarships are either merit-based or needs-based.
Together with the ISIC Association and British Council IELTS, StudyPortals offers you the chance to receive up to £10000 to expand your horizon and study abroad. We want to ultimately encourage you to study abroad in order to experience and explore new countries, cultures and languages.