Bachelor of Science in Physics and Astronomy

Physics and astronomy are branches of science that cover a large part of the material world, ranging from the study of subatomic particles (i.e. the so-called elementary particles) to the study of the cosmos in its entirety. The study of physics and astronomy aims at describing, understanding and modelling systems under the most diverse conditions. Fundamental sciences are based on the essential reciprocity of theory and experimentation/observation: a theory must always be tested, and new observations inform and inspire scientists to formulate new theories or improve existing ones.

Bachelor

The Bachelor’s programme in Physics and Astronomy studies the fundamental methods and techniques required to describe the earth’s and cosmos’ physical reality. Various specialised branches of physics and astronomy are already touched upon, to be further explored in the Master’s programme.The curriculum consists of eight learning pathways: general physics, theoretical physics, the structure of matter, astronomy, experimental physics and astronomy, mathematics, computer skills, broadening perspectives and interdisciplinarity. From the second year onwards, you choose between the Physics and Astronomy track, or the Education track. The former offers the opportunity to broaden your specialist knowledge or to explore other study programmes. The latter track allows for direct access into the subsequent Master’s Programme of Teaching.

Master

The Master of Science in Physics and Astronomy deals with a range of expert course units. In addition to six mandatory course units, the curriculum also offers a wide array of elective course units within the discipline. These electives dovetail closely with research that is being conducted by our own research groups, all of which contribute to physics and astronomy research on an international level. This gives you a large degree of freedom to specialise in a Physics and Astronomy sub-discipline of your preference. The study programme studies the fundamental aspects of physics and astronomy. By means of a balanced combination of the different concepts, the programme also aims at delivering physicists and astronomers who are able to start in a specific research branch. In addition, the programme aims at delivering academic Masters who have developed the attitude that is so characteristic of physicists and astronomers: i.e. the capacity for problem-setting and problem-solving thought. In many executive positions – be it in industry, government or academic research - this is an essential and highly valued skill. In the context of your Master's dissertation, you are given the opportunity to collaborate with one of our research groups which allows for a complete immersion into a specific (sub)discipline. This makes the Master’s dissertation an excellent stepping-stone to a potential doctorate.

In addition to the (domain) Master’s programme described above, you can also choose a Master’s Programme in Teaching (in Dutch: Educatieve Master). For more information, go to educatieve master (120 sp).

Our graduates find employment in company or government research departments, in product development or in a diversity of positions requiring a solid knowledge of ICT (e.g. big data, computer modelling) and problem-solving skills. Used to asking what-, how-, and why-questions, physics and astronomy graduates also find their way into fundamental and applied research positions. Our graduates receive an in-depth training with a strong focus on the capacity for problem-setting and problem-solving  thought, mathematical modelling and computer modelling. Among other things, these skills make our students into flexible and widely employable graduates in a range of executive positions.