Introduction

The MSc Advanced Physics is an intensive, research-led program with a separate focus on:

  • a) Astrophysics and Space Physics
  • b) Condensed Matter and Atomic Physics
  • c) Theoretical High Energy Physics and Cosmology

You will learn about advanced topics in the area of your choice by selecting suitable courses.

You will be exposed to a wide range of research techniques and will have the opportunity to conduct and write up your own project under the supervision of well-known researchers in the field.

MSc program components


Accreditation by HAHE (2024) fully compliant

General characteristics

Language

English. All courses are taught in English. The master thesis is written in English

ECTS

60

Duration

12 months

Starts

October each year. The maximum number of admitted MSc students per year is 20 (after an open call around June). The selection is based on qualifications

Study mode

Full time and in person

Fees

No tuition fees

Highlights

Research-led education

  • High quality education in a research-intensive environment
  • Access to the research facilities of the Physics Department and of the collaborating institutes IESL (Institute of Electronic Structure and Laser) and IA (Institute of Astrophysics)
  • Internationally acclaimed faculty
  • State-of-the-art, modern curriculum
  • A well-connected network with the international academic community, PhD opportunities in Greece and abroad

Exciting place to live & study

The University of Crete is one of the most dynamic universities in Greece. As a place, Crete is a beautiful island with diverse landscape – rugged mountains, deep caves, endless beaches and turquoise sea, many cities, towns and villages, and stunning countryside.

The Welcome Office of the University maintains an up-to-date website with useful information about the region, the university and practical matters associated with life in Greece. To learn more click on the link below.

Career prospects

Many of our graduates go on to start PhD studies in Physics and Astrophysics at various universities in Greece, Europe and the US.

Our graduates also take up full-time employment in various industries that require strong mathematics/computer skills.

More information about our graduates can be found in the link below.




Quotes of graduates of the program


Theofanis Ifaistos (Theoretical High Energy Physics, 2019-2020)
Theofanis continued to do a PhD in Machine Learning and Computational Fluid Dynamics at Université Paris-Saclay (France).
"My studies at the Advanced Physics MSc gave me a strong, analytical foundation which helped me advance my career further. Using the skills I obtained in the program, I was later able to work in the machine learning industry and then pursue a PhD in its intersection with computational physics. Overall, a rewarding experience that paved my next steps as a scientist."

Rafail Skalidis (Astrophysics, 2017-2018)
Rafail continued to do a PhD in Astrophysics in the Physics Department of the University of Crete. He then moved to Caltech (USA) as a NASA Hubble Fellow.
"The MS program combines academic excellence with a vibrant, supportive environment, offering world-class education and research that opens doors to international careers."

Ioanna Psaradaki (Astrophysics, 2015-2016)
Ioanna continued to do a PhD at Leiden University (Netherlands) and then moved to MIT (USA) as a postdoctoral fellow.
"During my M.S. in Advanced Physics at the University of Crete, I conducted cutting-edge thesis research that opened doors to an academic career."

Gina Panopoulou (Astrophysics, 2013-2014)
Gina continued to do a PhD in Astrophysics in the Physics Department of the University of Crete. She later moved to Caltech (USA) as a NASA Hubble Fellow and afterwards to Chalmers University of Technology (Sweden) as a faculty member.
"The Advanced Physics MSc program provides a well-balanced foundation on topics in fundamental and applied physics. It combines excellent mentors and access to research facilities supporting cutting-edge science like the Skinakas Observatory and FORTH. Through the MSc program I received the support and resources to begin a career in my chosen field of Astrophysics."