Physics, Theoretical Physics - Master Programme

During the Master’s programme you can examine several different approaches to matter and elementary particles as well as their inherent forces. You will also participate in dynamic research environments that are closely associated with two world-leading research facilities in Lund; the MAX IV Laboratory and the forthcoming neutron source ESS (European Spallation Source).

The programme provides strong proficiency in the fundamentals of theoretical physics and good opportunities to specialise in a research area of your interest and choice. The programme covers a broad spectrum of the areas found within theoretical and mathematical physics. Regardless of which area you choose, this education provides a stable foundation of theoretical knowledge for developing new models.

In theoretical particle physics, for example, you can decide to study the smallest constituents of matter and how these elementary particles interact with one another. You can also immerse yourself in applications of mathematical physics within the subject areas of nuclear physics and solid-state physics.

The education has strong links with research and the courses are continuously adapted to current research.

The Master’s programme includes a high proportion of teacher-led instruction. You will practice both oral and written communication and gain valuable experience of group collaboration. The language of instruction is English.

The programme has two compulsory courses, one in quantum mechanics and one in quantum physics in research and society. During the first year of study, you will also choose among several other courses such as mathematical methods in physics, computational physics, statistical mechanics, general relativity, advanced quantum mechanics and advanced electromagnetism.

During the second year of study, you will continue to build your expertise based on your own wishes. You can do courses in quantum field theory, theoretical particle physics, artificial neural networks, theoretical nuclear physics or symmetries and group theory, for example. The degree project is generally worth 30 credits and conducted in a research team, but it can also be extended to comprise more credits.

Graduates of this programme can embark on several different career paths depending on the selected programme profile. The education gives you a good foundation for third cycle studies within physics, and a large proportion of those who have completed the programme in theoretical physics go on to apply to doctoral programmes.

You can, however, also choose a career path outside academia in areas such as information and communication technology or energy production, where there is a need for expertise in advanced programming and modelling. In addition, new research facilities, such as the MAX IV Laboratory and ESS (European Spallation Source) in Lund, also create new opportunities in the labour market.

Prerequisites

Bachelor’s degree of at least 180 credits in physics or the equivalent. The degree must include at least 90 credits in physics. Proficiency in English equivalent to English 6/B from Swedish upper-secondary school.

Selection criteria

Based on grades awarded for previous academic courses, particularly qualifying courses, and a statement of purpose for the application (from the applicant’s “Summary sheet”).

Computers in the programme

The programme requires that you have access to a computer, preferably a laptop, on which you can install software mainly provided by the University, such as Microsoft 365, CAD/CAM and development environments for Python, Matlab or other computational tools. It can be either a Windows computer or a Macintosh computer. On some courses you may need to buy or rent your own software.

Conditions in the study environment and during study visits and field studies

The programme contains compulsory elements that require you to be able to work independently and safely in a laboratory environment, in a hospital environment, in workshops, in production facilities, or during study visits and field studies. These elements require the ability to comply with safety regulations, rules and instructions, and to move around in and evacuate premises safely.

Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA citizens

Citizens of countries outside:

• The European Union (EU)
• The European Economic Area (EEA) and
• Switzerland

are required to pay tuition fees. You pay an instalment of the tuition fee in advance of each
semester.

Tuition fees, payments and exemptions

Full programme/course tuition fee: SEK 370,000
First payment: SEK 92,500

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Note that you may also need to pay an application fee, or provide proof of exemption.

Application fee

No tuition fees for citizens of the EU, EEA and Switzerland

There are no tuition fees for citizens of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland.

Lund University Global Scholarship Programme

The Lund University Global Scholarship programme is a merit-based and selective scholarship targeted at top academic students from countries outside the EU/EEA.

Lund University Global Scholarship

African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) Scholarship

Within the framework of the Lund University Global Scholarship programme, the University also offers the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) Scholarship targeted at top academic students from selected African research universities. 

ARUA Scholarship

Swedish Institute Scholarship: Global professionals

The Swedish Institute offers scholarships to international students from certain countries who are applying for select Master's programmes in Sweden. 

Scholarship information on the Swedish Institute website

Swedish Institute Scholarship: Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship

The Swedish Institute offers scholarships for Master's studies in Sweden for women from selected countries in Africa and Asia who want to pursue degrees in STEM fields. Check the country and programme requirements on the Swedish Institute's website to see if you are eligible for the scholarship.

SI Scholarship Pioneering Women in STEM

Country-specific scholarships and funding options

Lund University has agreements with scholarship organisations and funding bodies in different countries, which may allow applicants to apply for funding or scholarships in their home countries for their studies at Lund University. Most agreements are intended for Master’s applicants, although certain opportunities may also be available to Bachelor’s students.

Country-specific scholarships

External scholarships

In addition to scholarships offered by Lund University or through its partner agreements, there are external opportunities. On the page below, you’ll find examples of organisations that may provide financial support for international students from specific countries. 

External scholarships