International Master of Science in Quantum Engineering Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg

Courses are held in English (100%). The Master's thesis has to be written in English.

The MSc programme in Quantum Engineering is a two-year programme with the first year focused on lectures, seminars and lab courses in order to deepen and broaden the knowledge of students beyond the experiences from BSc-level studies. In the second year, students work on a topical project in quantum technology integrated in a faculty research team under the supervision of a professor or senior scientist, leading to a Master's thesis.

Our faculty consists of 15 chairs (involving 25 professors), which cover a broad range of topics within condensed matter physics, particle and astrophysics, energy research, quantum- and nano-optics, optoelectronics and imaging technologies, combining experimental, theoretical and applied approaches.

We collaborate with leading groups of the top universities and research institutes worldwide, such as at Cambridge, Harvard, Princeton, Stanford, Riken, the Max Planck Society and NASA. One major focus is on research in topological and correlated solid state physics, which receives annual multimillion federal and European funding through individual grants and awards and a collaborative research centre.

Our expertise in material synthesis, characterisation and spectroscopy as well as in theoretical prediction and modelling and in the exploration of applications allows us a cradle-to-paper approach, all within our faculty. Materials synthesised by our molecular beam epitaxy and pulsed laser deposition groups undergo structural, optical, magnetic and quantum transport measurements and are shared with groups performing a number of spectroscopy techniques. These include angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy, spin-polarised scanning tunnelling spectroscopy, electron and nuclear spin resonance, spectroscopy and resonant X-ray spectroscopy as well as electron microscopy. Research in theoretical physics develops and employs ab-initio, field-theoretical, many-body theory, Monte-Carlo and holographic methods. Our research also covers theoretical and experimental particle physics, theoretical and observational astrophysics and astronomy as well as quantum field theory and string theory.

In particular, we carry out both theoretical and experimental precision analyses of the Standard Model in view of finding deviations and signals for new physics. Major topics in astronomy are high-energy astronomy and the study of cosmic particle accelerators, as well as dark matter. Moreover, we investigate the AdS/CFT correspondence, its applications and its relations to quantum information and quantum gravity. A further important focus is on the development of technologies for renewable energy harvesting, nano- and biophotonics, molecular electronics, quantum communication, spintronics and imaging techniques covering the spectroscopic range from radio waves (NMR) to X-rays. A wide range of epitaxial growth equipment for inorganic and organic semiconductor heterostructures, clean room facilities, spectroscopy labs and lithography are routinely used by our researchers and students.

Our international Master's study programmes:

• are full-time study programmes
• start in the summer (April) and winter (October) semester
• are non-online study programmes
• provide electronic study documents on teaching platforms

For all applicants:

• 15 March for the following winter semester
• 31 October of the previous year for the following summer semester

Further information can be found here.

The study programme Quantum Engineering is a combination of two major topics: A) Advanced Experimental and Theoretical Physics and B) Quantum Engineering Research with strong emphasis on scientific research during a one year Master's Project.

During the first year of the programme, the students enrol in the Advanced Laboratory Courses and the Advanced Seminar Quantum Engineering as well as at least three to four elective courses of advanced research in Quantum Engineering theory and experiment. All modules except for the laboratory courses are accompanied by a graded examination.

In semesters three and four, further specialised research training is provided in a selected field of interest. These two Master's project modules lead to the Master's thesis itself. The students are actively involved in ongoing research projects. They learn to plan and perform independent theoretical and experimental work. They also learn to summarise and discuss the results obtained in the Master's thesis. The thesis has to be presented and discussed within the working group seminar.

Further modules (up to five ECTS) are selected within the "Non-Technical Minor" sub-area to cover special aspects of interest. These modules will not be graded (pass/fail only).

There are no specific integrated internships within the study programme. Nevertheless, we encourage stays within Germany or abroad with in the existing collaborations. We collaborate with leading groups of the top universities and research institutes worldwide, such as at Cambridge, Harvard, Princeton, Stanford, Riken, the Max Planck Society and NASA.

No tuition fees

There are generally no tuition fees at the University of Würzburg. However, each semester, students are required to pay a contribution for enrolment or registration. This fee, approximately 170 EUR, not only supports various student services but also includes a semester ticket that grants you unlimited access to public transportation throughout the city of Würzburg.

Living in Würzburg is quite affordable compared to other German cities, making it an attractive option. While individual lifestyles vary, here is an estimate of typical costs:

• Food: 300 EUR
• Rent: 350 to 500 EUR
• Student health insurance: 140 EUR

Würzburg offers a vibrant student life with plenty of affordable options for dining, entertainment, and leisure activities. The University of Würzburg, its student representation and wider network of local partners help you manage your budget effectively, also by offering student discounts.

Admission to the programme shall be conditional on the following prerequisites (to be met cumulatively):

1. A Bachelor’s degree (180 ECTS) completed at the University of Würzburg (JMU) or another higher education institution in Germany or abroad or an equivalent German or foreign qualification (e.g. state examination)

and

2. Proof of

a) Competences on a scale totalling at least 29 ECTS from modules in fundamentals of nanosciences and further related basic and advanced modules,

b) Competences on a scale totalling at least 8 ECTS from modules in chemistry,

c) Competences on a scale totalling at least 27 ECTS from modules in the following sub areas of experimental physics: mechanics, electromagnetism, optics, thermodynamics, atomic and molecular physics, solid state physics,

d) Competences on a scale of at least 12 ECTS from modules in the following sub-areas of theoretical physics: Theoretical quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, statistical mechanics, 

e) Competences on a scale of at least 18 ECTS from modules in the following sub-areas of mathematics: Analysis, linear algebra, differential equations,

f) Competences on a scale of at least a further 18 ECTS from physics or engineering laboratory courses or as well as industrial internships, and

g) A thesis on a scale of at least 10 ECTS on a topic from a sub-area of ​​quantum technology or in the case of an interdisciplinary thesis on a topic in which methods of quantum technology are essentially applied, according to the ECTS credits scheme used at JMU for the BSc in Quantum Technology or – in the case of programmes not modularised within the meaning of the ECTS credits scheme – competences on the corresponding scale, which as a rule, must be acquired in the framework of the first degree indicated under letter a) (see above).

The required competences are taught at JMU in particular in the framework of the BSc in Quantum Technology (180 ECTS credits).

Required documents for application
(see "Submit application to")

Please upload the following documents as PDF files in the WueStudy application system:

1. Certificates of a degree in a Bachelor's study programme (acquisition of 180 ECTS points) at the University of Würzburg or another national or international institution or a comparable national or international degree (for example, state examination)

2. Proof of a university or equivalent degree attesting the achieved overall grading

3. Proof of previously achieved study and examination performances (transcript of records), which documents the basic and advanced skills according to the programme criteria

4. Proof of English skills according to the programme criteria (see section "Language requirements")

5. A statement of purpose explaining why you have chosen to apply to our Master's programme (letter of motivation)

6. Letter of recommendation

Please strictly follow the procedure given above and send all documents of your application prior to the deadline.

Language requirements in English (website)

The proof of skills in the English language should be at a level not lower than:

1. Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) with at least 550 points (paper-based TOEFL) or 72 points (Internet-based TOEFL)
2. International English Language Test System (IELTS) with a return of 6.0 or better
3. Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE)

In addition, German language skills (A2 according CEFR) are recommended to organise daily life.

For all applicants:

• 15 March for the following winter semester
• 31 October of the previous year for the following summer semester

Further information can be found here.

No

Finding part-time employment in Würzburg is a great way to gain experience, make new connections, and supplement your finances while studying. Students from EU and EEA countries enjoy equal terms in the labour market and can work freely during their studies. Students from other countries can work up to 140 full days or 280 half days per year, including voluntary internships. If you wish to work more, you'll need permission from the employment agency ("Agentur für Arbeit") or the immigration office.

It's important to ensure that your studies remain your top priority, so choose a side job that complements your academic schedule. The University of Würzburg offers resources to help you find part-time work, such as the student job portal. Popular student jobs include roles as academic assistants, bartenders, cashiers, personal trainers, translators, and more.

Finding the perfect place to live is an important part of your student experience at the University of Würzburg. Unlike some other countries, students in Germany need to find their own accommodation, as universities do not automatically provide it. At the University of Würzburg, you have two main options: "Studierendenwerk" housing or private rooms/student halls.

The Student Housing Service ("Studierendenwerk") manages 12 student residences in Würzburg, offering a total of 2,887 rooms. These dormitories provide a variety of amenities:

• Single and double rooms or apartments shared by two to four students, with communal kitchens and bathrooms

• Furnished rooms and apartments are available, though you'll need to bring your own dishes, cooking items, bedding, and towels.

To apply for housing, note the deadlines: 15 June for the winter semester and 15 January for the summer semester. For more information about private rooms and student halls, visit the Central Student Advisory Service.

In addition to Studierendenwerk housing, there are many private accommodation options available:

• Shared apartments ("Wohngemeinschaften" or "WGs"): These are popular among students and offer a great way to meet new people and share living costs.

• Private student halls: These are often run by private companies and offer similar amenities to Studierendenwerk dormitories. They can be a bit more expensive but may offer more modern facilities.

• Short-term accommodation: If you need a place to stay while you search for permanent housing, consider options like hostels, guest houses, or short-term rentals.

Remember to start your housing search early and stay positive! With a bit of patience and diligence, you'll find a cosy place to call home.

Support regarding career development, including internships, occupational prospects and individual coaching provided by student coordinator and university officials

The University of Würzburg offers comprehensive support services for international students and doctoral candidates. The International Office is a first point of contact, providing assistance with application and enrolment. For doctoral candidates, the university provides various pathways including faculty-based programmes, Graduate Schools, and bi-national promotions. Additionally, the Healthy University initiative promotes student health through various programmes and activities. Networking opportunities are abundant, with events organised, e.g., by the Würzburg International Network (WIN), driven by the local student organisation. Other services and introductory events, such as First Steps, showcase the dynamic and welcoming community for international students.