Master's Programme in Physics – Theoretical Physics: Quantum Fields and Strings

Each specialisation within the programme offers a study outline, recommending courses that build a coherent knowledge base. However, you have the flexibility to deviate from the suggested outline to make choices that are most meaningful to you.

At the beginning of your studies, we meet with you to go over possibilities and helping you to make a well-informed decision. This student-targeted open study approach is essential for accommodating the diverse backgrounds and interests of our international student body.

Semester 1

The most common study options include:

• advanced quantum mechanics
• classical electrodynamics (a Jakson-level course with emphasis on classical field theory)
• symmetry and group theory in physics (finite groups and matrix groups).

If you have gaps in your previous degree, then there are available courses to cover them: analytical mechanics, statistical mechanics, special relativity, an intermediate electromagnetism course, and a project within the introductory course to rehearse your mathematical skills.

Students with this previous knowledge can select courses from semester 3.

Semester 2

The first semester introduces foundational knowledge through the courses:

• quantum field theory,
• gravitation and cosmology (a course in general relativity),
• mathematical methods of physics II (includes differential geometry, Lie groups and Lie algebras).

Semester 3

Semester three offers courses that delve into modern research:

• quantum field theory and applications (2nd revision of path integral and renormalisation) followed by advanced QFT,
• quantum chromodynamics and effective field theory,
• conformal field theory and string theory followed by strings, dualities, and geometry,
• geometrical methods in theoretical physics.

Semester 4

The final semester is dedicated to your degree project, where you will work on your Master's thesis under the supervision of a researcher.

Other theoretical courses within the specialisation include:

• dynamical systems and chaos,
• symmetry in physics,
• advanced statistical physics.

There are also several programming courses that cover:

• mathematica,
• python,
• deep learning.

There is also a variety of project courses available, ranging from 5 to 30 credits. They 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.

Further, you are allowed to combine theoretical physics with other specialisations within the programme or other Master's programmes, to create a multidisciplinary learning experience.

Courses within the programme

See the programme outline for courses within the specialisation.

The programme takes place in Uppsala and is taught in English. Our teachers are active researchers, and so the courses closely follow current developments in theoretical physics. With typically small classes, ranging from a few students up to about 20, close contact between teachers and students is established, and supervision proceeds in an informal atmosphere. You can expect around 8–16 hours of classroom time per week. A considerable fraction of time is thus spent studying on your own or in a study group outside of the classroom; student-student collaboration is encouraged.

Instruction methods vary, including lectures, tutorials, discussions, and problem-solving sessions. Early courses in the programme typically use exams for assessment, while more advanced courses use continuous evaluation instead, such as written assignments.

Early involvement in research-related activities is encouraged, with opportunities to attend scientific seminars and undertake research projects. As you approach 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 research experience crucial for pursuing PhD positions.

With a Master's degree in physics, you will be qualified for PhD studies in physics and adjacent research areas. Many of our students continue as PhD students, at Uppsala University or elsewhere in the world. An important factor for success, in addition to the excellence of your work, is the excellence of our researchers who will teach and supervise your degree project. Uppsala University employs recognised leaders in various domains who collaborate with other research groups worldwide, which means you get a project on a competitive topic and your work becomes visible for prospective employers.

While studying physics, you acquire key transferable skills: critical thinking, problem-solving, group work, efficiently dealing with complex systems—you train these qualities on an everyday basis during your studies and project work, as this is an integral part of being a scientist. You also acquire a solid mathematical and programming background. This spectrum gives you perfect employment opportunities also outside of academia, in industry, research and development, software development, the financial sector, etcetera.

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.