Physics, X-ray and Neutron Science - Master Programme
Start
Autumn 2026
Duration
2 years
Level
Master's
Language
English
Place of study
Lund
You will learn how to generate and use X-rays and neutron beams. Thanks to their unique properties, they enable researchers to investigate materials in a broad range of different research fields, from fundamental issues of physics, quantum physics and materials sciences to studies in biology, geology, medicine and archaeology.
As a student, you will have access to two world-class research facilities in Lund. The MAX IV Laboratory is the world’s first fourth-generation synchrotron radiation source, while ESS (European Spallation Source) will become the world’s most powerful neutron source.
You will be part of a dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment, characterised by international collaborations with experimental research teams. All teaching staff members in this Master’s programme are researchers, so the courses are continuously adapted to current research.
During your studies you will learn how to use X-rays to investigate materials as well as catalysis and crystal growth using spectroscopy, diffraction and microscopy. You will also learn how neutrons can be used to investigate proteins, magnetism and superconductivity.
You will receive training in the practical use of both accelerator facilities. The programme has a flexible structure enabling you to combine theory, computation and experimentation.
The programme has a high proportion of teacher-directed learning. You will practise both oral and written communication and gain good experience of collaboration in groups. The language of instruction is English.
The education includes two compulsory courses, which you are recommended to do during the first autumn semester, one in quantum mechanics and one in quantum physics in research and society. During your first year of study, you will also choose between courses in accelerators and free electron lasers, synchrotron radiation-based research, modern X-ray physics and spectroscopy and the quantum description of matter.
During the second year of study, you have the opportunity to do a course in experimental methods and instruments for synchrotron radiation as well as a course in modern neutron physics. The degree project, conducted within a research group, is usually equivalent to 60 credits, although a 30-credit project can also be undertaken.
The Master’s programme provides a good basis for research studies in X-ray and neutron science. The MAX IV Laboratory and the forthcoming ESS (European Spallation Source) are research facilities that contribute to new opportunities in the labour market for both researchers and entrepreneurs. Staff are also needed to run the facilities.
You can also choose a career path outside academia, in fields such as information and communication technology where there is a need for expertise in advanced programming and modelling, as well as statistics and the processing of large amounts of data.
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
Note that you may also need to pay an application fee, or provide proof of exemption.
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.
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.
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.