Quantum sciences comprise modern topics based on recent breakthroughs in quantum physics and represent a major research area in the 21st century. The corresponding specialization in our Master’s program provides a solid foundation in quantum sciences, both theoretically and experimentally. The program will enable students to undertake fundamental research at the forefront of quantum physics, covering a broad range of topics like quantum optics, quantum information, ultracold quantum matter, quantum many-body physics, photonics, and machine learning. The students will acquire a level of knowledge and expertise that allows them to pursue an academic or professional career inside or outside physics.
Recommended course of study
We offer a theoretical and an experimental branch, both with a rich choice of topics. Please feel free to contact any Professor at the Institute for Experimental Physics or Theoretical Physics at any time to discuss your plans and optimize the selection of courses for your research project.
Those elective modules that are required for the specialization Quantum Sciences are highlighted in bold.
Year 1: Study Phase
First semester/winter
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Compulsory module: Modern Physics (5 ECTS) - all physics master students
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Elective module: Quantum Theory (10 ECTS)
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Elective module (experimental branch): Advanced Laboratory Courses A & B (10 ECTS)
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Elective module (theoretical branch): Advanced Methods of Quantum Theory (10 ECTS)
- Elective module: Special Topics in Quantum Science A: (5 ECTS). Instead of a course offered for this module specifically, one of the courses from the following list can be picked even if it appears under a different module name:
- Photonics
- Particle Traps and Laser Cooling
- Quantum gases
- Experimental Superconductivity
- Semiconductor Physics
- Laser Physics and Spectroscopy
- Experimental Quantum Information
- Advanced Topics in Quantum Information
- Theoretical Quantum Information
- Theoretical Quantum Optics
- Methodologie of Scientific Computing
- Advanced Topics in Quantum Physics
- Advanced Methods in Many-Body Physics
Second semester/summer
- Elective module: Special Topics in Quantum Science B: (5 ECTS). Instead of a course offered for this module specifically, one of the courses from the above list of „Special Topics in Quantum Science A" can be picked even if it appears under a different module name. It can then be allocated to this module.
- Elective Specialization (15 ECTS) We recommend three of the following courses (VU3) if you have not taken them for the Advanced Topics in Quantum Science A or B:
- Special Laboratory Course A
- Special Laboratory Course B: Optics
- Electronics
- Photonics
- Particle Traps and Laser Cooling
- Quantum gases
- Experimental Superconductivity
- Semiconductor Physics
- Laser Physics and Spectroscopy
- Experimental Quantum Information
- Advanced Topics in Quantum Information
- Theoretical Quantum Information
- Methodology of Scientific Computing
- Advanced Topics in Quantum Physics
- Advanced Methods in Many-Body Physics
Year 2: Research Phase
It is recommended to discuss possible thesis projects with potential advisors at the end of the summer semester. Potential thesis advisors are all research group leaders at the Institute for Experimental Physics or the Institute for Theoretical Physics see the webpages for further information and contact and details: https://www.uibk.ac.at/exphys/ and https://www.uibk.ac.at/de/th-physik/ .
- Compulsory module: Critical Research Analysis (5 ECTS)
Specialized course preparing for master thesis research work.
- Compulsory module: Research Seminar (5 ECTS)
In a research group seminar (ideally hosted by your supervisor), recent methods and results from the research groups are presented and discussed. Please choose a seminar hosted by one of the groups at the Institute for Experimental Physics or the Institute for Theoretical Physics.
- Compulsory module: Research Study (12.5 ECTS)
This is the preparatory phase for your master thesis in consultation with your thesis supervisor. It will be offered as a specific course from winter term 2021/22 on.
- Elective module: Specialization (Elective modules Specialization A, Specialization B, Theoretical Specialization, Interdisciplinary Skills) (5 ECTS)
See first semester for a list of recommended courses offered.
Fourth semester/summer
This last term is fully reserved for your master thesis work and defense. We also recommend to again participate in the research seminar of your group, but this is considered part of your thesis work and will not be credited with extra ECTS.
- Master thesis (30 ECTS)
- Defence of the master’s thesis (2.5 ECTS)
As of April 2025.