Applied Physics

In the first three semesters of the program, physics is taught intensively in its entirety. The subfields covered include mechanics, thermodynamics, electrodynamics, optics, and atomic, nuclear, and solid-state physics. The important minor subjects of mathematics, chemistry, and computer science also play a significant role in these first three semesters. In this way, a comprehensive foundation is laid upon which students can build in the further course of their studies.

Once the fundamentals are learned, students pursue various specializations, primarily in semesters four through six. These specializations include technical optics, laser technology, materials science, metrology, and simulation and microcomputer technology. Also in semesters four through six, students have the opportunity to choose from a wide range of Elective modules, selecting those that best suit their personal interests. This allows them to optimally prepare for future careers.

Independent work in the laboratory plays a significant role in both of the study phases described so far. Through practical, experimental work, students acquire important skills for their future careers. At the same time, they develop their social skills, as laboratory work is done in groups. The program also emphasizes other non-technical skills. Students learn the fundamentals of law and economics and are trained in work and presentation techniques.

The seventh semester, which is dedicated to the professional internship and the bachelor's thesis, marks the end of the degree program. During the internship, students gain in-depth knowledge of a specific professional field and acquire valuable work experience. The bachelor's thesis is typically completed in close collaboration with a company.

The Applied Physics degree program can be studied both with and without a focus on optics  

The optics specialization courses Electivesuch as "Fundamentals of Image Processing" and "Laser Applications. Students choosing the optics specialization Electivemodules. Additionally, an optics-related topic must be addressed during the practical training phase and in the bachelor's thesis.

Without choosing a specialization, students can freely select from the wide range Electivecourses and work on a topic during their practical training and bachelor's thesis that best suits their own inclinations and future career plans.

At the time of enrollment, it is not yet necessary to decide whether you want to specialize in optics. courses Elective, so there is plenty of time to decide. only begin in the fourth semester

The following is a list of courses. The numbers indicate how many credit points are allocated to each subject for each semester. A total of 210 credit points must be earned.

The detailed study program can be found in the module handbook.

How can a laser be used for a 3D printer? How can materials be analyzed with a scanning electron microscope? These are typical questions in applied physics.

Applied physics aims to make the insights of physics practically applicable in order to solve technical problems. Since physics forms the basis of both the natural sciences and engineering, it fulfills an important bridging function. Students of applied physics receive an interdisciplinary education and are thus able to collaborate with scientists and engineers from a wide range of disciplines in their professional careers. Graduates of applied physics are therefore sought-after generalists with excellent job prospects in a broad spectrum of industries, ranging from the automotive and electrical industries to the optical industry and biotechnology.

Within the various industries, graduates of Applied Physics perform a wide variety of diverse activities:

• Conducting physical experiments in research and development departments
• Computer-aided evaluation and analysis of measurement results
• Analysis and simulation of technical systems using mathematical models
• Implementation of physical research results into operational and industrial practice
• Development of new measurement, testing and manufacturing processes
• Design, calculation, construction and commissioning of physical-technical equipment
• Monitoring and testing of partial and finished products in industry (quality control)
• Sales and customer service

Graduates of this degree program can work in various specialized fields. Some are presented here:

Laser technology

Laser technology finds a multitude of industrial applications in a wide variety of fields. These include non-destructive material testing and quality control, high-precision, non-contact measurement of mechanical quantities, environmental analysis, process engineering, communications technology, and materials processing. Specific examples of applications include the qualitative inspection of aircraft spoilers during production, as well as the deformation and vibration analysis of stressed components, the measurement of flows and emissions, the optical storage, processing, and transmission of data, surface finishing, and the cutting, soldering, and welding of various materials.

Materials science

Materials science has long been established as a distinct discipline in Germany. Originally, it was either part of mechanical engineering under the name "materials science" as an engineering subject or part of solid-state physics and chemistry as an applied specialization. Today, a large number of different materials (including gases and liquids) are used in industrial applications, each with defined properties and optimized, for example, as high-performance materials for their specific purpose. Since the fields of transportation technology, energy technology, information technology, environmental technology, recycling, medical and biotechnology, as well as the leisure industry, demand new or improved materials that can only be produced and used effectively with specialized knowledge, the range of career opportunities for graduates of applied physics in this area is very diverse.

Computational physics

Computational physics is the integration of mathematics, physics, and computer science. Since the advent of powerful computers, computational physics has established itself as a third pillar alongside theoretical and experimental physics. Computer simulations allow us to solve problems that, due to their complexity, cannot be described by simple mathematical relationships. Furthermore, computer simulations provide deep insights into complex technical systems that are often difficult to access through measurement. Finally, computer simulations can help reduce the need for extremely expensive experiments. Applications of computer simulation include fluid mechanics, combustion engineering, vibration analysis, acoustics, optics, robotics, vehicle dynamics, satellite technology, and biophysics. Because applied physics students receive intensive training in the fundamental subjects of mathematics, physics, and computer science, they are exceptionally well-prepared for the professional use of computer simulations.

The physics camp is a special program for first-year students. In a relaxed atmosphere, the new students spend a weekend in nature and have the opportunity to get to know each other. Guided by lecturers and students from higher semesters, the newcomers learn how to conduct physical measurements and how to present their results to the group.

Physics experiments don't have to take place only in the laboratory. On the important topic of renewable energies, applied physics students are conducting an outdoor experiment. Who can manage to heat a water sample to the highest possible temperature using only the sun?

Engineering Studies and Industrial Practice (is+i) is a dual study program offered by the Technische Hochschule Mittelhessen THM) at its Friedberg campus. The program focuses on the close integration of practical experience in a partner company with the coursework in Applied Physics. Balanced, alternating phases at THM and in the partner company ensure an optimal connection between theory and practice. This approach prepares students for an ideal career start – usually directly within the partner company. The comprehensive support offered to dual is+i students at THM enables them to complete their studies quickly and successfully, earning a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.). is+i is a proven study option with decades of experience across various Degree Coursesat THM , now boasting well over 100 partner companies and numerous successful graduates.

The advantages for is+i students include:

• is+i combines a broad-based study of applied physics with professional experience in business practice.
• is+i enables the direct application of learned theory in projects within the company, thus providing motivation throughout the entire course of study.
• is+i is a study model in which part of the coursework can be completed at the partner company. This reduces the workload during the learning phases at the university.
• is+i guarantees basic financial security for the entire duration of the studies.
• is+i promotes above-average academic success through a wide range of offerings, resulting in a short study duration and a very good final grade.
• is+i imparts interdisciplinary skills for personality development.
• is+i offers a secure entry into professional life.

You can find all further information on the page about dual study options.

degree

Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)

Standard period of study

7 semesters

Accreditation

ASIIN Düsseldorf

Study options

Full-time studies

Main language of instruction

German

Study location, site

Friedberg

Cost

Semester fee

Admission mode

The degree program is open admission, without a numerus clausus (NC). You only need to enroll within the respective deadline and meet the enrollment requirements to secure a place.

Start of studies

Winter semester

Bridge courses

Before the start of lectures, THM one-week bridging courses in subjects including mathematics, physics, programming, and chemistry. First-year students can use these courses to refresh their prior knowledge and fill any gaps.

Enrollment period

June 1st to September 20th (winter semester)

Application period for international students

from April 1st to July 15th (winter semester) via uni-assist.
Further information for international applicants is available from the International Office.

matriculation

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