Master in Physics
Riga, Latvia
DURATION
2 Years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Request application deadline
EARLIEST START DATE
Sep 2025
TUITION FEES
EUR 2,900 / per year
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
Key Summary
Introduction
The aim of the master’s study program “ Physics” is to prepare highly qualified and internationally competitive master-level physics specialists for the labor market, providing an opportunity to specialize in sub-disciplines of physics specific to Latvia with high research and innovation potential and stimulating the acquisition of interdisciplinary competence during studies. The University of Latvia offers specializations in solid state and material physics, physics of continuous media, atomic, molecular, and optical physics, and theoretical physics as well as a list of interdisciplinary courses related to quantum computing, physical chemistry, etc. The program is organized in collaboration with Daugavpils University (located in Daugavpils, Latvia), which offers a specialization in technology physics.
Tasks of the Study Program
- To encourage students to develop as professionals in the field by providing the opportunity to complement the knowledge and skills acquired in the BSc program in their chosen specialization in physics
- To give students the opportunity to gain experience in independent research under the guidance of a supervisor
- To enhance students’ scientific research skills and competence in analyzing research problems
- To develop students’ critical and creative thinking, reasoning, and decision-making skills, and the ability to apply acquired knowledge and competencies in physics and interdisciplinary research
- Ensure flexibility of the restricted elective part of the study program in line with labor market requirements
- Ensure effective and monitorable delivery of the planned program results
- To create the conditions for graduates to successfully pursue studies at the doctoral level
The program has been developed within the framework of the project “ Design of Internationally Competitive Study Programmes Promoting the Development of the National Economy of Latvia at the University of Latvia” (project No. 8.2.1.0 / 18 / A / 015).
ERASMUS+ exchange possibilities
UL full-time students, regardless of their citizenship, have the opportunity to apply for the ERASMUS + exchange program for studies or/or traineeship.
Admissions
Scholarships and Funding
- EUR 600 per month - citizens from these countries are eligible to apply for a Latvian state scholarship.
- Temporary students’ residence permit holders can work 40 hours per week.
Curriculum
Mandatory Study Courses
- Current topics in Physics and astronomy I
- Fundamentals of Physics specializations
- Numerical simulation of physical processes
- Basic Latvian Exam 2
- Research laboratory works I
Elective Courses
- Civil protection Test 1
- Environment protection
Program Outcome
Knowledge
Demonstrate advanced or expanded knowledge in certain areas of physics, in line with the selected specialization topic under AMSPP. For example atomic, molecular, and optical physics, solid-state and material physics, physics of continuous media, technology physics, theoretical physics, etc.
Demonstrate interdisciplinary knowledge that complements knowledge in the sub-disciplines of physics. For example: biophotonics, medical physics, nanostructure physics, chemical physics, atmospheric and/or environmental physics, and other interdisciplinary fields.
Skills
Use mathematical description for explaining and analyzing physical processes, formulating physical problems, and choosing adequate approximation and solution methodologies
Plan and carry out experiments or calculations in one of the fields of physics, obtain data independently, and evaluate errors in measurements and calculations;
Analyze results by comparing them with theoretical models, numerical simulations, and available experimental data.
Competences
At a qualitative level, be aware of current developments in physics and demonstrate an understanding of the highest standards of physical science in their field of specialization; summarise research results in the form of a scientific publication (e.g. a Master's thesis) based on knowledge of the current state of at least one sub-field of physics and be able to integrate knowledge from different fields as appropriate
Sees essential details on the subject, manipulates precise and complex ideas, uses logical arguments and correct terms in communication on the subject of physics with professionals and non-specialists
By conducting independent research with a high degree of autonomy within the framework of the master's thesis, demonstrating competence in information gathering and analysis, obtaining information from journal articles, databases, and communications with colleagues, and sorting it according to relevance
Is aware that falsification and plagiarism of data are contrary to academic integrity, is objective and honest in his/her actions, recognizes the limits of his/her knowledge, understands and is aware of the ethical responsibility for the potential impact of the results of his/her actions on the environment and society.
Program Tuition Fee
Career Opportunities
Already during study time most students get involved in research projects and are employed by one of the research labs and institutes of the University of Latvia or innovative companies. After graduation, you can continue your academic growth in doctoral studies or immediately enter the labor market. Our graduates are in high demand for doctoral studies both at the University of Latvia and abroad.