Skip to main content

Physics

Important information at a glance

Degree: Bachelor of ScienceLanguage of Instruction: GermanStart of studies: Winter and summer semesterAdmission: Unrestricted admissionCombined subjects: Single-subject bachelor's degreeStandard period of study: 6 semestersSemester abroad: Optional

Studying physics in Frankfurt means understanding the world from its fundamentals—from the tiniest particles to the largest structures in the universe. In the bachelor's program in physics at Goethe University, students engage early on with current research questions and learn to analyze and solve complex problems using clear mathematical methods.

From the very beginning, the course combines theory and practice: In modern labs, small group exercises, and through close guidance, students not only develop solid expertise but also advance their analytical thinking and creative problem-solving strategies. Fields such as quantum physics, astrophysics, solid-state physics, and climate physics, where students can choose their own focus areas, highlight the diversity and societal relevance of physics.

The research groups within the faculty of physics are also involved in numerous national and international projects, allowing students to gain their own research experience and build national and international connections early on. Thanks to the close integration of expertise and practical application, graduates of a physics program enjoy a wide range of career horizons—from science to roles in high-tech companies, the IT or energy sectors, and even finance. In Frankfurt, students lay the foundation for a career that combines analytical strength, curiosity, and innovation. You can find more information about career opportunities here.

Another special feature in Frankfurt is the excellent support structures for students at the start of their studies. The faculty of physics offers its own physics learning center, where peer tutors assist students in understanding lecture materials, solving exercises, and mastering complex topics.

Frankfurt also offers a unique faculty scholarship for high achievers: Thanks to the generous support of Dr. Winfried Wilcke, an alumnus of the faculty of physics, bachelor’s students in physics and biophysics, as well as students training to become teachers, automatically receive a monthly scholarship of 300 euros for up to two years—no application required—if they meet the performance-based criteria. This allows students to focus even more on their studies.

Student at the board

Uwe Dettmar

Structure and content

What makes studying physics in Frankfurt especially distinctive is that the bachelor's program is divided into a compulsory component and a very large compulsory electives component, allowing students to pursue their own personal interests early on.

Program Structure

Mandatory and Compulsory Elective Courses

In the core curriculum, mandatory courses worth 128 CP must be taken in the following areas:

 

  • 34 CP Experimental physics
  • 40 CP Theoretical physics
  • 24 CP Mathematics
  • 24 CP Beginner and advanced practical courses
  • 6 CP Programming

The compulsory elective area/minor subject (34 CP) allows students to focus on their individual interests. This phase of the degree program is divided into:

 

  • 12–18 CP compulsory elective area (specialization modules in physics)
  • 16–22 CP minor subject (various subjects such as business administration, philosophy, or chemistry).


 

Bachelor Thesis

The program concludes with a bachelor's thesis, which consists of the actual thesis and accompanying seminars worth a total of 18 CP

In addition to a solid foundation in experimental and theoretical physics, mathematics, and programming, students have the opportunity within the compulsory elective component to deepen their personal interests and specialize in specific areas of physics.

In addition to personalizing your studies by embarking on elective modules, you can also pursue the bachelor's program in physics with a focus on "Physics of Atmosphere and Climate" or "Geophysics."

Study regulations

The study regulations govern the structure, organization, and content of the degree program as well as the examination system. They form the basis for your studies at Goethe University.