Leibniz Institute for Astrophysics (AIP), Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron (DESY), Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics (AEI)
100% English
15 August for the following winter semester
15 February for the following summer semester
The research-oriented Master's degree programme in Astrophysics conveys comprehensive knowledge about the structure and evolution of the universe and its constituents. You will gain a profound understanding of the many complex physical processes that provide the foundation to explain cosmic phenomena. You will also develop a methodological toolkit that enables you to explore and analyse these phenomena. Subject-specific competences in the programme include the discipline's core fields (stars, stellar evolution, galaxies, cosmology) and a variety of more specialised topics (for example: galaxy clusters and large-scale structures, interstellar and intergalactic gas, stellar winds, solar physics, cosmic magnetic fields, planetary science, astroparticle physics, gravitational waves, astronomical instrumentation and observation methods, computer simulations, and others).
First year: course work including lectures, seminars, and lab courses
Second year: research phase and completion of Master's thesis
Available modules (first year): Astrophysics I, Astrophysics II, Higher Physics, Methods of Modern Astrophysics, Topics in Advanced Astrophysics, Supplementary Topics
No tuition is charged for studying at the University of Potsdam (with the exception of a few continuing education courses). There is only an administrative fee of currently 316 EUR. This semester contribution includes a semester ticket entitling you to free use of public transport all over Brandenburg and Berlin.
Living in Germany is rather cheap compared to other countries in Northern and Western Europe. Monthly living expenditures of students at the University of Potsdam vary between 870 and 1,200 EUR, largely depending on accommodation. A more detailed list of the average monthly expenditures of our students can be found here.
Bachelor's degree in physics or other science field with at least 60 credit points in physics and mathematics, including at least six credit points in the field of astrophysics. Prior knowledge in astrophysics must be certified in the Transcript of Records (ToR).
English level C1 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
15 August for the following winter semester
15 February for the following summer semester
Please submit your application online and via postal mail to uni-assist:
Universität Potsdam
c/o uni-assist e.V.
11507 Berlin
Germany
Job opportunities for students alongside their studies are numerous. Depending on personal and professional skills, students can find jobs in the service sector (e.g. in restaurants, supermarkets, cinemas, museums, theatres, etc.) or work as student assistants at the University of Potsdam or at one of the many non-university research institutions located in the area. The German capital, Berlin, is located just around the corner, and students can also find jobs there. Please see this website for further information.
There are several student dormitories in Potsdam. These are administered exclusively by Potsdam's Association for Student Affairs ("Studentenwerk Potsdam"). You can apply for a room in one of these dormitories if you are under the age of 30. If you are a Master's student, you can only apply if the degree at the University of Potsdam is your first Master's programme. Additionally, there are also a few private dormitories in Potsdam, to which these conditions do not apply. However, many students prefer to find an apartment in Potsdam or Berlin, which they often share with fellow students. The housing market is tight, so please start looking for an accommodation as early as possible.
For information on how to register for a dorm room or find accommodation elsewhere, please click this link.
The Career Service of the University of Potsdam supports students and graduates who want to actively shape their careers. The aim is to ensure comprehensive career orientation and to provide opportunities for the development of professional skills. The Career Service offers workshops, seminars, and individual counselling. There are information pages on a wide range of occupational fields as well as a database of internships and jobs. Many of the services are also available in English.
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