Astrophysics and particle physics as part of the Bachelor's degree programme in Physics

Even in the early stages of the Bachelor's degree programme in Physics (C2007), there are a number of optional courses in the subject area of astro and particle physics. From the first semester onwards, for example, there is the opportunity to attend introductory lectures on astronomy, the solar system or astroparticle physics. In addition, our institute offers lectures on the physics of near-Earth space and relativistic physics, the latter of which is also supplemented by exercises.

Students gain a deeper understanding of particle physics in the 4th semester as part of the lecture Physics IV: Nuclei and Particles. Typically, students then have the opportunity to focus on astrophysics in the 5th semester, as two to three of the elective modules Astrophysics 1, Solid State Physics and Atomic and Molecular Physics must be taken as part of the Bachelor's degree programme in Physics.

As part of the Bachelor's degree programme in Physics, students also have the opportunity to gain additional insights into topics of astrophysics and particle physics with experiments on spectroscopy, muon lifetimes, differential absorption spectroscopy, cloud chambers and CCDs as part of the compulsory advanced practical course (6th semester).

Further insights into the workings of astrophysics can be gained in the astrophysics laboratory practical course, in which students work with various programmes and analyse real observation data. Every year, a Excursion to the Asiago Astrophysical Observatory in Italyis also offered, where students can deepen their understanding of observations with telescopes, as well as the evaluation and reduction of data. If you are interested in particle physics, the regular excursion to the CERN research centre in Switzerland is also recommended.

When choosing your Bachelor's thesis topic, you can of course also focus on astrophysics and particle physics. The various working groups from which you can request a topic can be found at Institutshomepage. Here you can gain an initial insight into the working methods of astrophysics and particle physics and usually work on the chosen topic for one semester (in parallel to other courses). At the end, the work is presented in the Bachelor's seminar to other students who are also writing their Bachelor's thesis at the Institute of Astro- and Particle Physics, as well as to the supervising professors and lecturers.

The current courses can always be found at Course catalogue.