Study Degree Programmes

The Bachelor's programme in the Physics major lasts 6 semesters and leads to the "Bachelor of Science UZH in Physics" (BSc).

To obtain a Master's degree in physics 90 ECTS credit points are necessary. Optionally, it is possible to study a minor subject for an additional 30 ECTS credits. Successful graduates receive the degree "Master of Science UZH in Physics". The language of the program is English.
In the Master's program, students specialize in a current field of research. The department of physics has four main different areas of research: 

• Astrophysics and Cosmology. Our researchers study the universe and its most common building blocks. Experimentally, dark matter is studied in underground direct detection experiments, such as XENON as well as indirectly using annihilation products. Also, gravitational waves are investigated with the aim of a space-based detector in LISA. Theoretically, the properties of gravitational waves, clustering of dark matter in galaxies as well as galaxy and planet formation are pursued.
• Particle physics. Our research groups are probing the fundamental nature of elementary particles and the interactions between them at the smallest length-scales. This is done in precision tests of the standard model and the search for new physics that goes beyond these expectations. Experimentalists do these tests at CERN and also develop new detectors for LHCb and CMS.  Theorists are involved in all areas of phenomenology for standard model physics and beyond.
• Bio- and medical physics. Our researchers investigate biological systems from the scale of a single molecule to that of tissues and organisms. Thereby we gain information about e.g. molecular structure and the function of growth control regulated by mechanical forces and radiotherapy of cancers. Technically, the methods used and developed range from electron holography to magnetic resonance imaging and microscopy in turbid media.
• Condensed matter. Our researchers explore novel phases and effects in quantum matter by studying exotic magnets, superconductors, topological insulators, and atomically thin materials like graphene, and seek useful applications for these materials. Experimentalists use large-scale spectrometers, atom-resolving microscopes, low-temperature equipment and intense laser fields, while theorists rely on the power of equations and that of supercomputers.

The prerequisites for the admission to the doctoral program in physics consist of a Master's degree in Physics. Students who have successfully completed their Master's (or are about to do so) can apply for PhD positions in physics at the University of Zurich. All applicants undergo a rigorous selection procedure.