Physics and astronomy cover an enormous field of research, ranging from the smallest ‘elementary’ particles to the universe as a whole. Astrophysicists study phenomena such as force, motion, heat, light, sound and electricity to understand how the world works and uncover the laws of nature that govern it. As in other fundamental sciences, they use observations or experiments and test their findings against existing theories. This often leads to new insights, theories or applications. By choosing the Physics and Astronomy programme, you opt for a broad and challenging academic education that provides intensive training in problem-solving, mathematical modelling and computational skills. You will build on the ground-breaking insights of physicists such as Isaac Newton and Albert Einstein, explore discoveries in contemporary physics, and embrace mathematics and computer science as essential supporting disciplines.    

• Bachelor

In the Bachelor’s programme in Physics and Astronomy, you study the fundamental methods and techniques needed to describe the physical reality of the Earth and the universe. You are also introduced to specialised fields that you can explore in greater depth during the Master’s programme. The curriculum is structured around eight learning pathways: general physics, theoretical physics, the structure of matter, astronomy, experimental physics and astronomy, mathematics, computer skills, interdisciplinarity and broadening. From the second year onwards, you choose between the Physics and Astronomy track and the Education track. The Physics and Astronomy track allows you to deepen your subject-specific knowledge or broaden your knowledge through other disciplines. If you choose the Education track, you can progress directly to the corresponding Master of Science in Teaching programme.

• Master

In the Master’s programme, you delve deeper into specialised areas within the field. In addition to six compulsory courses, you choose from a wide range of elective courses closely linked to the active physics and astronomy research groups at Ghent University. This allows you to focus on the field that interests you most. Options include subatomic physics, solid-state physics, astrophysics, theoretical physics and plasma physics. The programme also offers courses on the technical applications of physics. The Master’s programme focuses on the fundamental aspects of physics and astronomy and combines different concepts in a balanced way, preparing you to play an active role in a variety of research fields.

At the same time, you develop the mindset typical of physicists and astronomers: the ability to identify and solve problems. This skill has proven to be essential and highly valued in leadership positions in industry, government and academia. You complete the programme with a Master’s dissertation, in which you demonstrate your ability to apply the scientific skills you have acquired to a topic of your choice. While working on your dissertation, you actively contribute to the work of a research group and explore a specific field in depth. The Master’s dissertation therefore also provides excellent preparation for a possible PhD.

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).

As a physicist or astronomer, your fundamental scientific training and intellectual flexibility enable you to tackle the emerging challenges of the knowledge society. Your analytical mind and highly developed problem-solving skills make you suitable for a wide range of jobs across various sectors. Whereas physicists and astronomers once mainly found employment in education, academic research or specialised research centres, they are now just as likely to work in industry, IT and other innovative sectors. Among other things, they contribute to quality control, risk management, automation and process engineering.