Location:

Leuven, Belgium

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Academic Year

Program Overview

Program Description:

The Master of Physics programme provides students with a thorough general knowledge of physics as well as an in-depth knowledge in a range of specialist areas. Students prepare a Master's thesis in a research domain related to nuclear physics, solid state physics, soft matter physics or theoretical physics, all areas in which the research groups within the Department of Physics and Astronomy have significant expertise. This is an initial Master's programme and can be followed on a full-time or part-time basis. 120 ECTS

The master students will grow into independent and critical scientists. Masters of physics will have developed sufficient knowledge and skills to participate in competitive national or international PhD programmes. Moreover the acquired research methodology will prepare the student for employment as a scientist in any chosen profession. The curriculum is constructed in a way that the student can specialize in an area of choice by joining one of the research groups of the department. This specialization can be in the field of experimental nuclear physics, solid state physics at the nanometer scale, soft matter physics of in the field of theoretical physics. A major part of the curriculum consists of research resulting in a master thesis. The subject of the thesis is chosen by the student during the course of the second semester of the 1st Master year.

The Department of Physics and Astronomy aims to explore physical realities by means of mathematical, computational, experimental, and observational techniques. Fifteen teams undertake internationally competitive research. Publishing research results in leading journals and attracting top-level scientists are key priorities. The department is not only dedicated to the study of new physics and the development of innovative techniques, it also maintains close links with industry (e.g., consulting, patents) and society (science communication). Additionally, the department is responsible for teaching basic physics courses in several study programmes.

Setting Description:

Situated in the heart of Western Europe, KU Leuven (University of Leuven) has been a centre of learning for nearly six centuries. Today, it is Belgium's largest and highest-ranked university and, founded in 1425, one of the oldest and most renowned universities in Europe. As a leading European research university and co-founder of the League of European Research Universities (LERU), KU Leuven offers a wide variety of programmes in English, all supported by high-quality, innovative, interdisciplinary research. KU Leuven is home to a vibrant community of international scholars spread out over its various campuses. 14% of the university’s 54,000 students are international representing 140 countries. KU Leuven's three doctoral schools provide internationally oriented PhD tracks for more than 4,000 doctoral students. Boasting an outstanding central location, KU Leuven offers a truly international experience, high-quality education, world-class research and cutting-edge innovation.

Cost:

The Flemish Government's generous co-financing system ensures that tuition fees for Bachelor's and initial Master's programmes remain relatively low: 890 EUR per academic year (subject to change without notice).