The Bachelor of Physics Program
Description of the Degree Program
The course has a standard period of six semesters and begins in the winter semester. It is a fundamental introduction to theoretical and experimental physics and allows students to take a master’s degree in physics at all German universities that offer such a course.
The Integrated Course
In the first four semesters in Dortmund we chose a different type of physical education than is usual in Germany. The lectures Physics I-IV in these first semesters are given jointly by lecturers from experimental and theoretical physics (we call this the "integrated course"). At most German universities it is customary to hold lectures on experimental physics and theoretical physics separately in the first semesters.
Mathematics
The important mathematical education takes place primarily in the lectures "Higher Mathematics I-IV", which are tailored to the special needs of a physics degree. For those who are not certain yet whether they may end up aiming for a bachelor's degree in mathematics or a teaching degree in physics / mathematics, there is an alternative to mathematics training. You can find out more about this in the examination regulations, the information brochure of our department (both in German) or from the academic advice service.
Modules and Credit Points
The degree program is divided into modules that include one or more courses. The time required for a module is weighted by so-called credit points (CP) (in German also called LP). In total, courses worth 180 credit points must be successfully completed during the course. Successful participation in a module is proven by exams. The grades of the module examinations (weighted according to the scope of the module) are included in the final grade. There is no final examination for the entire course. The type of examination (oral, written) is specified in the module descriptions or announced at the beginning of the module. The module descriptions can be accessed via the module handbook. The examination regulations (in German) clarify further details. Please note that the degree program is conducted in German and only individual modules from the elective area take place in English if required.
Research at the Department of Physics
The focus of our research, and thus also the possible specializations of our students, are in the areas
- Condensed Matter Physics (Solid and Soft Matter), Theory and Experiment
- Elementary particle physics (in accelerators and with particles from the universe), Theory and Experiment
- Accelerator Physics and Synchrotron Radiation
- Medical physics, Theory and Experiment