Bachelor Physics

Exploring the Basic Law of Nature and Setting the Basis for Technology

Physics is the science which studies the natural laws of our world and delivers the basic principles for technical developments. Much that is of enormous practical importance today is based on insights that were gained through physics.

Educational objecitve and career profile

The degree programme in Physics builds upon a good basic knowledge of mathematics and demands a distinct talent for abstract thinking. It provides broad fundamental training which allows graduates to independently acquire further knowledge in their chosen profession.

Graduate physicists often carry out research in industrial or state-owned laboratories. They are involved in such varied tasks as, for example, the testing of atmospheric processes, materials research, the development of technology on an atomic scale or the use of high-energy rays in medicine. Since physicists are typically found in areas where questions have to be asked, practical experience gained and methods developed, their skills are also valued in many other professional fields.

Bachelor's degree programme (180 credits)

The Bachelor’s degree programme in Physics at ETH Zurich stands out because of the sound and diverse basic training it offers. Its aim is to familiarise students with fundamental physical concepts, structures and methods, supplemented by a broad basis in mathematical subjects.

The first year of study is nearly identical in the Mathematics and Physics programmes, and it is possible to switch in either direction at the end of the first year.

In the second and third years, students attend more specialised lectures in experimental and theoretical physics and carry out practicals to deepen their theoretical and methodological grounding. In the third year, students can choose from a wide range of core subjects to study alongside the practicals.

In their final semester, students can either complete semester papers in theoretical or experimental physics or take a theoretical proseminar.

Largely common first year for undergraduates in Mathematics and Physics:
Analysis, Linear Algebra, Numerical Methods, Physics, Computer Science
Courses in theoretical and experimental physics:
General Mechanics, Electrodynamics, Quantum Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Astrophysics, Solid-state Physics, Quantum Electronics, Nuclear and Particle Physics, etc.
Practicals, semester paper in research groups

For detailed information go to the pages in German Physik or download the brochure Download Physik – das Studium (PDF, 2.9 MB)      

Master's degree programme (90 credits)

Theoretical and experimental core subjects
Electives:
e.g. from the fields of Astrophysics, Atmospheric Physics, Biophysics, Solid-state Physics, Nuclear Physics, Medical Physics, Neuroinformatics, Quantum Electronics, Reactor Physics, Particle Physics, Theoretical Physics
Proseminars and semester papers
Master’s thesis (6 months)

For detailes information see Master Physics