International Programmes 2026/2027

MSc Quantum Science and Technology MSc Quantum Science and Technology

Friedrich Schiller University Jena • Jena

Degree
Master of Science
Course location
Jena
Teaching language
  • English
Languages

You do not need to be skilled in the German language. The whole programme is taught in English. However, we offer German language courses to all of our students to immerse themselves deeper in the German culture.

Full-time / part-time
  • full-time
Programme duration
4 semesters
Beginning
Winter semester
Application periods

The application deadlines are:

  • 15 January (first priority deadline for all applicants)
  • 1 March (second priority deadline for all applicants)
  • 15 April (third priority deadline for all applicants)
  • 15 June (rolling admission deadline for EU applicants)
  • 31 August (rolling admission deadline for German applicants and applicants with a valid German residence permit)

 

More information on application periods
Please find more details on this website.
Combined Master's degree / PhD programme
Yes
Joint degree / double degree programme
No
Description/content

The MSc Quantum Science & Technology is an all-English, two-year Master's degree course of study providing multidisciplinary coverage in the field of quantum sciences including quantum mechanics, information, communication, computing, imaging, sensing and further rising fields of quantum technology. The course schedule ranges from fundamental scientific subjects to application-oriented quantum engineering aspects. The programme is designed to incorporate students of different backgrounds and nationalities. It aims to provide them with a solid knowledge of quantum theory as well as the potential of quantum-related effects, both for academic research and for technological applications in industry. All lectures, courses and modules are taught completely in English. Students enrolled in the two-year programme receive dedicated tutorial support and are trained for leading positions in industry and academia. Moreover, graduating the MSc Quantum Science & Technology programme offers a very direct way to enter our prestigious doctoral (PhD) programme afterwards.

The MSc Quantum Science & Technology course schedule commences its first semester with a compulsory adjustment and essential module of fundamental lectures. The longer students follow the programme, the larger their freedom to choose from a great number of different subjects from the catalogue of the MSc Quantum Science & Technology programme. All students are supported by individual counselling on which subjects to choose, depending on their previous knowledge and targeted interests. Moreover, all students experience hands-on quantum training in our research-grade laboratories from the very beginning. With this programme, we are offering a unique opportunity for young individuals to become part of the next generation of quantum scientists and engineers!

Course organisation

The curriculum includes a combination of lectures, seminars, labs, tutorials, internships, and research projects. The ECTS system allows students to make individual choices according to the programme guidelines to collect a total of 120 credits. The programme combines in-class learning with practical learning elements.

  • First semester: Adjustment, Essentials I and Practical Research Training
  • Second semester: Essentials II, Specialisation I and Practical Research Training
  • Third semester: Specialisation II and Practical Research Training
  • Fourth semester: Research (Master's thesis project)
International elements
  • Language training provided
  • Projects with partners in Germany and abroad
  • Integrated/optional study abroad unit(s)
  • Courses are led with foreign partners
  • International comparisons and thematic reference to the international context
  • Content-related regional focus
Integrated/optional study abroad unit(s)

Our Abbe School of Photonics has developed numerous international academic partnerships and benefits from a dense network of contacts to leaders and decision-makers in photonics all over the world. As a student at the Abbe School of Photonics, you will have several opportunities to plan a semester abroad while staying perfectly in line with your study plan and without losing time. Immersing oneself in the everyday-life of a foreign country and a foreign-language university greatly widens one's horizon and can present completely new career opportunities. You will experience that with the education you receive in Jena, you will be well prepared to be successful at any other university in the world.

Students are invited to do part of their research during the studies at one of our prestigious academic education partners, including but not limited to the National University of Canberra (Australia), the Technical University Delft (The Netherlands), the University of Bordeaux and the University of Paris-Saclay (France), the Politecnico di Milano (Italy), and many more.

For details, see www.asp.uni-jena.de/msc-international-mobility.

Integrated internships

The Abbe School of Photonics (ASP) strongly supports the transfer of fundamental research results to industrial applications. To promote strategic partnerships, ASP sustains a dense network of optics and photonics industry members. In joint research projects, our scientists and students cover both fundamental and applied topics. One of our main goals is to produce synergetic effects between university institutes, the associated non-university research institutes, a dense international network and – of course – our industrial partners.

We are dedicated to enable a scientific, societal and economical added-value for our students – the benefit of our students is at the heart of our daily effort.

For details, see www.asp.uni-jena.de/network.

Course-specific, integrated German language courses
No
Course-specific, integrated English language courses
No
Tuition fees per semester
None
Semester contribution

Approx. 320 EUR per semester. Includes the Deutschlandsemesterticket (free public transport in Germany) and the Jena culture ticket; see details here.

Costs of living

Studying in Jena is tuition-free.

Costs (per month) vary depending on individual circumstances: rent and food: 550 EUR, books and learning materials: 50 EUR, health insurance: 120 EUR, other expenses: 180 EUR, total: 900 EUR.

Funding opportunities within the university
Yes
Description of the above-mentioned funding opportunities within the university

Deutschlandstipendium (application in April each year).

Some programmes offer scholarships. Please consult the specific study programme website.

Academic admission requirements

Applicants for the MSc Quantum Science & Technology must have obtained or be about to obtain a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualifications in Physics, Natural Sciences, or Engineering. The final acceptance decision is made by the evaluation committee of the Abbe School of Photonics.

For details, see www.asp.uni-jena.de/quantum-application.

German language skills
No minimum language level required
English language skills
B2 required, please provide an official language certificate, e.g.:
  • IELTS Academic: 6.5
  • TOEFL iBT (before 2026): 85
  • TOEIC: 780
Language requirements exemptions
Please find details on the course website.
Application periods

The application deadlines are:

  • 15 January (first priority deadline for all applicants)
  • 1 March (second priority deadline for all applicants)
  • 15 April (third priority deadline for all applicants)
  • 15 June (rolling admission deadline for EU applicants)
  • 31 August (rolling admission deadline for German applicants and applicants with a valid German residence permit)

 

More information on application periods
Please find more details on this website.
Submit application via
Please check this website.
Accommodation

Bachelor's and Master's level students may apply for student accommodation (all off-campus, furnished single rooms in shared apartments, rent: 200 to 350 EUR per month, application deadline: 15 July/15 January).

International doctoral candidates have the possibility of applying for a place in one of three university guesthouses. Enrolled doctoral candidates can also apply for a room in student housing.

You can find more information about finding accommodation in Jena here.

Career advisory services and programmes for future professionals

When applying for internships, part-time jobs or entry-level roles after graduation, the Career Point team at the University of Jena supports Bachelor’s and Master’s students with free events and advisory services. Career talks, alumni events, company visits, workshops on soft skills, intercultural skills, and future skills, and a free interdisciplinary career and job fair enable exchange with employers. Templates, a job portal, LinkedIn and a mailing list provide information on vacancies, event invitations and exclusive offers. Students interested in entrepreneurship can reach out to the university’s K1 Startup Service.

Support for international students and doctoral candidates
  • Welcome event
  • Tutors
  • Accompanying programme
  • Specialist counselling
  • Cultural and linguistic preparation
  • Visa matters
  • Help with finding accommodation
  • Support with registration procedures
General services and support for international students and doctoral candidates

Your academic success is important to us! That is why we are committed to constantly providing good advice and support services. The International Office provides digital onboarding workshops for newly admitted applicants, Welcome buddies support newly arrived students, and the Welcome Days offer many events to help students orient themselves and make new friends quickly. Find all support services here.

The Graduate Academy supports doctoral candidates with personal advice and a mentoring programme.

Friedrich Schiller University Jena

Content Bild
Open air seminar at the Abbe School of Photonics, Jena, Germany © Friedrich Schiller University Jena.

Friedrich Schiller University Jena is a dynamic and innovative university situated in the heart of Germany. With a broad range of subjects, it contributes to shaping the future through excellent research and teaching. Its academic excellence is reflected in its "Light. Life. Liberty." profile, which delivers groundbreaking insights and sustainable solutions for future societies. Closely networked with leading research institutions, innovative companies and renowned cultural institutions, it drives interdisciplinary developments forward. With around 17,000 students and some 10,000 staff, it shapes Jena as a vibrant, internationally connected city of science and the future.

 

University location

The city of Jena is brought to life by the fascinating combination of its interesting and impressive history, featuring many famous scientists, writers, philosophers and others, its delightful countryside, its innovative international research-oriented industry, as well as its vivid student community. This rich variety creates a unique atmosphere which gives this small, lively city its special charm. Jena is well known to be one of the most innovative and dynamic cities in Germany. Foreigners living here often emphasise that Jena is extraordinarily secure, clean, friendly, tolerant, and affordable.

There are not many places in which science penetrates as deeply into so many aspects of life as it does in Jena. More than 23,000 students and young career scientists shape the city's character. Apart from the Friedrich Schiller University, there are approximately 30 other research institutions in which science plays a vibrant and prominent role.

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