Physics
Do you like to understand why the world is the way it is? This field of study gives you the opportunity to choose between a wide range of topics. You can specialize in everything from quarks, cancer research and high technology to geological processes and cosmology. You can work experimentally, numerically or theoretically – or combine all three.
A brief description of the programme
The study of physics is in essence about studying the fundamental laws of nature. As a master’s student of physics the most important lessons are how to uncover, understand and describe the underlying laws of nature or relevant interactions. You will be studying the fundamental processes in nature and also go more in depth in subjects that interest you. Our academic staff are ready to help you select your theoretical curriculum and create a master’s project customized for you.
Physics is the foundation of technological advancement, such as LED light bulbs, quantum computers or solar cells. Other fields are also advanced by use of physics, such as medical devices like CT, MRI and so on. One may think all great questions in physics have already been answered, but in the coming years new, large experiments and observatories are expected to lead to breakthroughs in our understanding of the beginning of the universe and the smallest building blocks in the universe – among other things.
As a master's student in physics you can contribute to developing artificial intelligence, nanotechnology or medicine, or solving environmental problems. Studying physics is largely about exploring new things and phenomena we still don’t understand, and as a master’s student at the Department of Physics you can potentially discover new and unthought-of applications of physics.
Master's students here can choose between the following specializatons:
- Biological and Medical Physics – here you will see physics used on a broad spectrum of problems related to biology and medicine.
- Condensed Matter and Materials Physics – you will learn of various states of matter, such as exotic states, soft and hard matter.
- Didactic Physics – Didactic physics is about teaching and learning in physics, and how physics fits in society.
- Nuclear and Particle Physics – this field of research study the smallest building blocks in the universe and the forces acting on them.
- Quantum Science and Quantum Technology – you will learn of various states of matter, such as exotic states, soft and hard matter.
- Space Physics and Space Technology – here you will typically work with analyzing data from satellites and sounding rockets, or developing technology used in satellites.
- Theoretical Physics – here you will work with general theoretical questions in fields such as nuclear and particle physics, cosmology and quantum phenomena for large systems.
With a relevant background, it may also be possible to complete your master's thesis outside UiO at a research institute or at selected companies and institutions, such as:
- Norwegian Defence Research Establishment
- The Institute for Energy Technology
- SINTEF
- Oslo University Hospital
- UNIS
- CERN
A big plus of taking a master’s degree in Physics at the University of Oslo is that the Department of Physics is the largest fundamental research institute in physics in Norway. This means that we can offer a wider variety of master’s projects than other Norwegian universities. After graduating you will have many options, as the work you do on your project will open opportunities in other relevant fields, such as chemistry, mechanics, electronics and biological sciences. As a master’s graduate you will also be able to continue your studies in a PhD in any of the aforementioned fields.
Study environment
It is important to us that you thrive as a master's student at the Department of Physics. In the start of the semester we have meetings for all new students. Here you will get to know the other students, and the academic staff at the Department of Physics, both socially and professionally.
All our programmes options do a lot to create a good study environment. Some options have weekly meetings between students and academic staff, others have various social meetings.
Outside of studies many students start working in Fysikkforeningen, the physics student union. Fysikkforeningen arrange various parties, meetings with companies and social gatherings with quizzes. You can also choose between 200 student unions at the university. We also have a gym at campus if you are interested. We have many diners and coffee bars, so if you need a break from studying, you can meet others and relax at any of these locations.
If you have any technical or practical questions about your programme, or need guidance, please contact us.
Study abroad
We have thriving exchange agreements in Canada, but its also possible to go to Svalbard, France, Italy and The United States.
Further studies and work
Physicists become employed within a large number of areas from finance and hospitals to engineering companies and public administration. After a master's programme, you will in addition to a firm understanding of physics have acquired a significant amount of training in analytical methods and thinking, furthermore programming and use of advanced computer tools. Such knowledge and skills are important in order to understand and analyse phenomena and processes in nature. Additionally knowledge and insights in physics are fundamental regarding modern high technology, and economists also acquire mathematical models from physics.
Many work tasks and carreer paths will be open. Some examples include research and development within the private and public sector, management and research administration, programming and development in the computer industry, medical physicists, in addition to teaching and imparting.
Some of the employers of graduates include: The Norwegian Veritas (DNV), Norwegian Institute for Air Research (NILU), Norwegian Defence Research Establishment, Oslo University Hospital, State Radiation Protection, Norwegian Hydro, Telenor, Norwegian Cancer Society, Norwegian Metrology Service, SINTEF, IDEAS, Inventura Tech, Accenture, Statoil, IBM, IFE, hospitals and x-ray institutes.
The master's degree in physics may qualify you for further PhD studies in physics, and depending on the programme option, also within adjacent areas such as electronics and material science.
By completing a one-year programme in Practical Pedagogical Education (in Norwegian), you will qualify to work as a lecturer in schools.
Honours certificate
Are you academically ambitious? It is possible to supplement your master's degree with an honours certificate worth 20 credits. You take the certificate concurrently with the master's programme.