Curriculum

With the lectures “Particle Physics (Standard Model)” , “Detectors for Particle Beams”  and “Group Theory” in the bachelor’s degree programs “Physics” and “Mathematical Physics” the basics for the master’s degree program can be laid.

A typical combination of courses preparing for a master thesis in Theoretical Particle Physics is as follows:

Winter term I:  Quantum Field Theory I
Summer term I: Quantum Field Theory II and/or Theoretical Elementary Particle Physics 

Winter term II: Master’s thesis
Summer term II: Master’s thesis

This basic program can be supplemented by other courses, in particular in particle physics, quantum field theory, string theory, astronomy and astrophysics.

A typical combination of courses preparing for research in this area is as follows:

Winter term I: Quantum Field Theory, General Relativity, String Theory I
Summer term I: Gauge/Gravity Duality, String Theory II

Winter term II: Master’s thesis
Summer term II: Master’s thesis

While the Quantum Field Theory and General Relativity Lectures are essential, some of the further courses may be replaced by other courses selected from the wide offer of theoretical physics courses offered at the Faculty of Physics and Astronomy.  Possibilities include courses on quantum information, conformal field theory, or specialized topics in particle and condensed matter physics.  We recommend to discuss possible choices with the Lecturers performing research in quantum field theory and string theory.

Master’ degree studies in astronomy and astrophysics require the skill level of an introductory course to astrophysics equivalent to “Einführung in die Astrophysik” (Bachelor physics curriculum of JMU Würzburg).  

In the first year of the master’s study program, we recommend the lectures

winter term

• Astronomical Methods
• Introduction to Plasma Physics
• High-Energy Astrophysics
• Cosmology

summer term

• Theoretical Astrophysics
• Multiwavelength Astronomy

The virtual course “Astronomical Imaging” taught by us via VHB, computational physics, as well as lectures in general relativity, particle physics, and imaging physics are recommended as complementary courses. Aquiring some basic knowledge in coding (C++, python), computational methods, and statististical data analysis prior to the master thesis is encouraged.

The second year is for the planning and preparation of a research plan (winter term), and for carrying out the master’s thesis project (summer term).  The study program ends with the successful evaluation of the master’s thesis.   The  Institute for Theoretical Physics and Astrophysics (ITPA) offers opportunities for doctoral studies after completion of the master’s studies program to obtain a doctoral degree, typically three years after the master’s degree.