Program Overview

Physics and Astronomy

The Physics and Astronomy program at VU Amsterdam is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the universe.

Overview

The program offers a strong foundation in physics research, making graduates highly sought-after in the market for PhD candidates and research groups.

Curriculum

The curriculum is designed to equip students with strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to design, set up, exploit, and communicate successful experimental solutions to important scientific questions.

Future

As a graduate in Physics and Astronomy, students can pursue a variety of career paths, including:

• Working in the knowledge-based sector (e.g., Philips, Philips Medical Systems, ASML, Océ, TNO, ESA)
• Working in the financial sector
• Working in the IT and consultancy sector (e.g., KPN, McKinsey, ING, ABN AMRO)
• Working in government (e.g., Dutch ministries of EZ, VROM, OCW)
• Pursuing a science teacher degree, which can lead to a career in science education or other educational positions

Admissions

To be eligible for the program, students must meet the admission requirements, which can be found on the VU Amsterdam website.

What can you do after your Master's degree?

After completing the Master's degree in Physics and Astronomy, students can:

• Start working in various fields, such as research institutes, multinationals, telecommunications companies, banks, and software houses
• Pursue an academic career, starting with a four-year PhD program to become an independent researcher
  • The first year of the PhD program will focus on complementing theoretical knowledge and preparing for research
  • The subsequent years will involve developing and carrying out a physics research project and writing a PhD thesis
  • PhD positions are supported by the university, as well as bodies like the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO), companies, and the European Union