Physics, MSc

Programme description

Studying physics at Chalmers begins with advanced courses in the core principles of the field as it looks today. You will dive into essential theoretical, computational, and experimental physics, building a strong foundation before specialising further in a number of different areas.

These include astrophysics, quantum technology, materials science, nuclear technology, and computational physics. Whether your interests lie in understanding the origins of the universe, developing new quantum devices, or investigating questions of nuclear safety and radiation, you will be able to tailor the programme according to your own interests. either by following a preset specialisation, or through your own selection of elective courses.

Research and experimentation are central throughout. You will work with advanced laboratory equipment with access to high-tech infrastructure like the nanofabrication laboratory, and Chalmers’ very own cleanroom. You will use computational tools and analytical methods, learn to formulate scientific questions, design experiments, interpret data, and compare observations with theoretical predictions. Project work, including recreation of existing scientific results, and the master's thesis will also give you the opportunity to contribute to ongoing research, working alongside active research groups in areas like quantum mechanics.

Chalmers also owns and runs the internationally significant Onsala Space Observatory. This is the hub for the university’s long tradition of space research excellence in Sweden and abroad.

The programme reflects the breadth of modern physics with a wide range of courses. Throughout your studies, you will work alongside researchers investigating some of the most fundamental questions in science, developing skills that are highly valued across both research and industry. The analytical mindset of physics is also highly attractive across a number of adjacent fields, like finance or computer science.

Please note that this course list is subject to change. 

Job opportunities

After graduation, you will be prepared for careers wherever advanced modelling, data analysis, and theoretical and computational skills are required. Depending on which areas you specialise in, you could work with advanced materials, semiconductors and photonics, energy, quantum technology, data analysis, and many other knowledge-intensive sectors.

The broad scientific foundation also creates opportunities beyond traditional physics. Employers value physicists for their ability to solve complex problems using mathematical modelling, programming and simulation. This means adjacent fields like consultancy, finance, and industrial research and development also offer good potential.

The programme has strong links to both academic research and industrial practice through master's thesis projects, research collaborations, and external partners such as SKF, ABB, and AstraZeneca. The Department of Physics at Chalmers has a very broad research remit throughout the various fields of physics, and the programme naturally provides an excellent foundation for doctoral studies here.

Research

The programme is closely integrated with active research at Chalmers, across a number of departments, and research centres. Relevant areas include astrophysics and cosmology, quantum technology and condensed matter physics. Others are materials science, photonics, radiation, nuclear technology, and theoretical physics.

You will benefit from access to laboratories like the Chalmers Material Analysis Laboratory and Onsala Space Observatory. There are also advanced experimental facilities like FormulaEx for RNA technology, high-performance computing resources, and collaborations with international research environments.

When it comes to quantum physics, Chalmers is leading the development of Sweden’s first and largest quantum computer, right here on campus, through the Wallenberg Centre for Quantum Technology. This covers research in quantum algorithms, sensing, optics, materials and more.

Chalmers also coordinates the Graphene Flagship, one of the European Commission’s largest ever research projects, focused on getting graphene out of the lab and into commercial applications.

Master's thesis projects are frequently carried out within ongoing research projects, providing valuable experience of how fundamental physics can contribute to scientific discovery and technological innovation.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in: Physics, Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, Material Science, Chemical Engineering or the equivalent

Prerequisites: Mathematics (at least 24 cr.), Quantum Physics, Programming in a General-Purpose Language (e.g. Python or Matlab)

English language requirements: Prove your English proficiency

How to apply