Master's Programme in Physics – Mathematical Physics

At the beginning of your studies, we will meet with you to go over the offerings and help you form a study plan which matches best your background and goals.

The first semester gives you an opportunity to cover any gaps from your previous degree. If no such gaps exist, you can choose from more advanced offerings, including from those for the second year. Alternatively, you can choose to do an additional research project.

In this specialisation we split the topics into three roughly equal parts:

Part one

The first part consists of so called quantum courses: advanced quantum mechanics and two courses in quantum field theory, and the necessary prior background in theoretical physics. Other subjects to choose from is general relativity, quantum chromodynamics, string theory, advanced topics in statistical physics and quantum field theory.

Part two

The second part is a well-established part of mathematical physics. You will study Mathematical Methods of Physics II and geometrical methods in theoretical physics that cover differential geometry and topology, algebraic topology, Lie groups and Lie algebras, geometry of gauge theories . There will be plenty of explicit examples and problems to solve, and applications to gauge theories, gravity, and condensed matter.

Part three

The third part consists of “algebraic” topics and are taught by the Mathematical Department (and form the key difference of this track compared to heoretical Pysics). You will study finite groups, fields, rings, modules, Galois theory, representation theory of finite groups, and homological algebra. Several other courses are available as an option, including algebraic geometry.

Final course is Representation Theory and Integrable Systems which is jointly taught by both departments. This course builds on all three strands and further develops the synergy between them, discussing topics such as symplectic geometry, deformation quantisation, quantum groups, exactly solvable QFTs.

We also offer a spectrum of programming courses (Mathematica, Python, two courses in Deep Learning) as well as a variety of project courses, ranging from 5 to 30 credits, that allow you to gain research experience or explore topics not covered in regular courses. It's even possible to complete your entire master's degree through project courses.

Master’s thesis

The fourth semester is dedicated to the degree project, where you will work on your Master's thesis under the supervision of a researcher. While the most natural choice is to have a supervisor from the Centre of Excellence for Geometry and Physics, you are by no means limited to this option.

Courses within the programme

See the programme outline for courses within the specialisation.

Study Abroad

If you would like to complete part of your studies abroad, we can offer you many exchange programmes around the world. We can help you find suitable courses that match your interests.

Our teachers are active researchers, and so the courses closely follow current developments in mathematical physics, theoretical physics, and mathematics.

During a typical week, you will have about 8–16 hours of scheduled classroom time. The majority of time is thus spent studying on your own or in a study group outside the classroom. You can also choose to conduct research projects. They are a lot like thesis work, only shorter in duration, and are an excellent way into a new research field and research group.

With the exception of the first semester, classes are typically small, ranging from a few students up to about 20. This gives you close contact with the teachers as well as your fellow students.

Instruction methods vary, including lectures, tutorials, discussions, and problem‑solving sessions. Early courses use exams for assessment, while more advanced courses use continuous evaluation instead meaning you get your marks by doing homework assignments for which we endorse student-student cooperation.

Early involvement in research-related activities is encouraged, with opportunities to attend scientific seminars and undertake research projects. Towards the end of your studies the focus shifts entirely to research: the degree project is compulsory to accomplish your master. It offers a hands-on experience crucial for pursuing PhD positions.

We also implement a model of peer teaching, where older students provide supplementary tutoring for younger ones. You will be able to experience this from both sides, which offers great practice in group work, a much deeper understanding of the material, and a valuable addition to your CV.

The instruction language is English.

With a Master’s degree in physics specialising in mathematical physics, you will become highly competitive in application for PhD studies in theoretical and mathematical physics and some branches of mathematics, in top universities worldwide.

An important factor for success is the excellence of our researchers who will teach and supervise your degree project, they are recognised leaders in their fields who collaborate with other research groups worldwide.This means that you get a project in a competitive topic and your work becomes visible for prospective employers.

During your studies, you will develop essential critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork and systems management skills — core elements of scientific training. You will also learn to communicate results effectively to different audiences in various formats. Alongside your physics studies, you will gain a solid foundation in mathematics and programming, opening up career paths in industry, research, software development, finance and more.

Career support

During your time as a student, UU Careers offers support and guidance. You have the opportunity to take part in a variety of activities and events that will prepare you for your future career.