The open structure of the programme ensures that there will be large freedom for the student to both broaden and specialize her own interests. There are four different tracks to initially choose from:
1) Physics, which covers a broad range of sub-fields of physics, e.g. theoretical, sub-atomic, materials physics, as well as physics didactics.
2) Astronomy and Space Physics
3) Geophysics
4) Meteorology
The Master Programme in Physics has been formed in close connection with the various research groups within the physical sciences. The lecturers are all active researchers and the courses are closely connected to the most recent research discoveries.
Through your choice of courses you achieve a specialization within a sub-field of physics. There are also possibilities to combine courses from other fields in order to obtain an individual profile for your master degree.
There is a broad range of fields in physics to specialize in:
Specializations within materials physics, magnetism, materials theory, and chemical physics are provided in close connection with the materials science research performed at the Ångström laboratory and through a joint international master programme in material and nano-sciences; "NANOMAT" with the Pierre & Marie Curie University (UPMC) in Paris, France. Here one can get more familiar with experimental and theoretical methods to study, to understand and to develop new materials. Some examples of courses within this field are: Solid State Theory, Magnetism, Physics at Surfaces and Interfaces, as well as advanced courses in Atomic, Molecular, and Solid State Physics.
Within the fields of theoretical physics, sub-atomic physics, and applied energy production a lot of interesting physics is performed. A few examples are studies with string theory, the neutrino detections at Antarctica, and the research on fusion. Quantum Field Theory, Energy Physics, Chaos and Structure and Gravitation and Cosmology are examples of courses for these specializations.
In the field of physics didactics, a general knowledge of physics is combined with the understanding of how teaching and learning in physics can be obtained.
Within astronomy and space physics both the closest space as well as the whole universe are studied. These investigations are performed by satellites, observations and theoretical tools. Examples of courses are Space Physics, Plasma Physics, Physics of the Planetary System, Stellar Physics, Galaxies, Cosmology and Astronomical Instrumentation.
Geophysics and meteorology are two fields where physics are used to study Earth and its climate, with great importance for e.g. environmental and resource issues. Some typical courses are Physical Geology, Electromagnetic Geophysics, Physics of the Atmosphere, Variations in Climate and Practical Meteorology.
Models of Learning and Qualitative Research Methods are some examples of courses in this specialization.
