Master of Science in Engineering Physics

Ghent University is the only university in Flanders to offer a Master of Science in Engineering Physics. Our alumni have a solid physical know-how and the necessary skills to take up a leading role in groundbreaking physics research. At the same time, they have the engineering skills that make them sought-after innovators and developers in industry, at research institutes, and universities. The curriculum’s engineering component develops skills such as analysis, design and optimisation of existing and new systems, products, machines, and materials. This involves approximating physical reality by system descriptions ranging from simple rules of thumb to expert systems. The physics component follows a reductionist approach where experiment and mathematical modelling aim at understanding and breaking down physics to its basics, and deriving its governing equations. Despite the more philosophical approach, a rigorous attitude remains essential and all physical theory has to withstand experimental validation.

The regular programme leading to a Master’s degree in Engineering Physics starts with a three-year Bachelor’s programme, followed by a two-year Master’s programme. Admission into our programme from several other (both domestic and foreign) Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes is possible. The two-year Master’s curriculum contains a number of mandatory course units offering a strong basis in the major fields of engineering physics.

Through a selected number of elective course unit, our students can then acquire an attractive skillset in more advanced topics in engineering physics, ranging from quantum mechanical modelling to the physics of photonic and electronic components. In the first year, students need to carry out a physics project with an industrial purpose and a focus on sustainability and intellectual property. A research-oriented Master’s dissertation completes the programme in the second year.

The Master of Science in Engineering Physics prepares students to tackle engineering challenges with a broad skill set in physics. By means of programme’s broad scope and its eight advanced elective course units we make sure that our alumni are ready to do innovate work in a broad range of companies and research centre in all areas where physics is required or essential. Graduated physics engineers excel in multidisciplinary research due to their broad expertise and inquiring attitude. Graduates find their way to companies working in photonics, nanoscale sciences, nuclear physics and technology, electronics, materials or biomedical engineering. Some of our alumni work in consultancy or at government institutes. After a few years they can be found in management functions or as leading researchers and professors.