Theoretical Physics

The Master in Theoretical Physics is a two-year program offered by the Institute of Theoretical Physics, which aims to provide students with a high-level, internationally competitive training in theoretical physics. The program covers a wide range of areas in theoretical physics, including compact stars, classical and quantum gravity, neutrino physics, quantum field theory, quantum information and quantum optics, modern quantum mechanics, and supersymmetric quantum mechanics.

The program is designed to provide students with comprehensive and up-to-date knowledge of modern theoretical physics, and to guide them to the frontiers of current research in the field. The Institute of Theoretical Physics has active research groups in each of the areas covered by the program, and students have the opportunity to join one of these groups and take part in special projects.

The program offers considerable flexibility and choice, allowing students to choose a path that reflects their intellectual tastes or career goals. They may prefer a broad theoretical education across subject areas or a more selective path if they have already decided on their profile. With a diploma from this program, students are entitled to apply to the PhD School at the Department of Physics and Astronomy and develop their scientific careers under the supervision of one of the faculty members.

Assessment of students' performance in the program is conducted through written exams, course work marked on a pass/fail basis, take-home papers, and mini-projects, and the modes of assessment for each course are decided by the course lecturer.

The program is international, with international students coming from a variety of countries, and the scientific staff is also international, comprising Polish, German, Armenian, Italian, Japanese, and Ukrainian researchers. Graduates of the program can pursue research in mathematical and theoretical physics or in industry.

To apply for the program, students are required to submit their bachelor or master degree certificate, transcript of grades/supplement from bachelor or master studies, certificate confirming English language knowledge on B2 level, passport photocopy, and digital passport size photo. Students are expected to have basic skills in physics, mathematics, and programming obtained during their bachelor courses. The program is structured such that students do not choose defined specializations at the beginning of the studies, but after broad formation during compulsory courses, they have the opportunity to follow their individual interests by choosing from a wide range of optional courses. During the second semester, students are supposed to have chosen a master thesis advisor, who will help them choose an appropriate set of lectures. By completing this program, students will gain a broad understanding of physics across the core areas studied in the program, develop their knowledge in selected areas of physics, become familiar with the methods of research and inquiry used to advance their knowledge, and achieve a new level of self-direction and originality in tackling and solving research problems.