Bachelor of Science in Physics

The bachelor's study course in physics aims to acquire the ability to independently classify physical and, in some cases, overarching problems that require goal-oriented and logically approaches based on scientific knowledge and to analyze and solve them using scientific and mathematical methods.

In the 1st to 4th semester, students are taught solid mathematical and physical knowledge in the fields of classical physics and the first basics of modern physics. They will acquire in-depth knowledge of the physical core subjects (classical mechanics, thermodynamics, electrodynamics, optics and the basics of quantum, atomic, molecular and nuclear physics) as well as the associated mathematical methods. They acquire basic experimental techniques and skills and the ability to apply their physical knowledge to experimental tasks. In addition, the students learn the basic principles of physics and learn to understand the mathematical formulation of those and the methods based on them.

In order to meet the different interests of the students and to realize different qualification profiles, there are three study options to choose from within the first part of the study course, which differ primarily in the teaching of mathematics and in the minor subject area.

The study option mathematics is particularly aimed at students with a distinct interest in theoretical and mathematical physics who acquire a qualification profile that enables them to specially work in theory and mathematical modeling. The study option natural sciences / technology focuses more on teaching practical arithmetic skills than on a systematic structure of mathematics. With an additional chemistry module and an additional physical laboratory internship, it leads to a qualification profile that especially develops experimental skills and includes basic knowledge in a related application-related field. In the French study option, in addition to the mathematics training within the framework of advanced mathematics, French language skills are built up to prepare for participation in the exchange program of the University of Paderborn with the Université du Maine in Le Mans in the fifth and sixth semesters. The special qualification profile of this study option thus includes intercultural skills and advanced knowledge of another foreign language besides English.

The 5th and 6th semester serve to impart basic knowledge, problem-solving skills and an overview knowledge in selected fields of application and special fields of physics (in particular solid-state physics and modern optics) and thereby professional qualifications. Electives allow individual specialization and preparation for various further Master's programs. By completing a bachelor's thesis, students learn to work on a scientific task under supervision and to document their results in writing and present them orally.

Integrated in the lectures basic skills in key qualifications (e.g. time management, learning and working techniques, teamwork, communication skills, rules of good scientific practice) and the ability to further develop these qualifications are imparted. Independent language courses also teach foreign language skills in technical English (study options mathematics and natural sciences / technology) or French (study option French).