Ben-Gurion University of the Negev

What you'll study

The Master's programme in Physics offers advanced training across core and applied areas of contemporary physics. Students follow a mix of taught modules and a substantial independent research project leading to a thesis. Typical taught subjects include advanced quantum mechanics, statistical and thermal physics, electromagnetic theory, solid state and condensed-matter physics, atomic and molecular physics, statistical mechanics, and computational physics.

Elective and specialised modules reflect the department's research strengths and may include:

• Optics and photonics, including laser physics and nonlinear optics
• Nanoscience and nanoelectronics
• Soft matter and biophysics
• Materials physics and semiconductor devices
• Quantum information and quantum optics
• Computational methods in physics and numerical modelling
• Astrophysics and space-physics subjects, where available

The programme emphasises hands-on laboratory work, advanced computational training, regular research seminars and participation in the department's colloquia. The research thesis—supervised by a faculty member—forms the core of the MSc and is expected to contribute original results or an in-depth study in a chosen subfield.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a recognised Bachelor's degree in Physics or a closely related discipline (for example applied physics, electrical engineering or materials science) with strong academic performance. Candidates who lack particular undergraduate courses may be asked to take preparatory coursework.

Standard application documentation typically includes a certified academic transcript, a curriculum vitae, a statement of purpose outlining research interests, and academic references. International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English; accepted evidence usually includes recognised language test scores or equivalent institutional qualifications. Some applicants may also be invited for an interview or to discuss a potential supervisor and research topic.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MSc in Physics go on to a variety of careers in academia, research and industry. Common pathways include:

• Continuation to doctoral research (PhD) in physics or related disciplines
• Research and development roles in high-technology sectors such as photonics, semiconductors, nanotechnology and medical devices
• Positions in national and regional research institutes and government laboratories
• Engineering and technical roles that require advanced quantitative and modelling skills, including data science and computational physics roles
• Technical roles in instrumentation, metrology and manufacturing
• Teaching and outreach in higher education and secondary education (where applicable with local certification)

The department's close links with local industry and research centres in the Negev provide opportunities for internships, collaborative projects and technology transfer, helping graduates move into applied research and product development roles.

Why study at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev

Ben-Gurion University offers a research-active Physics Department with a broad set of experimental and theoretical groups. The university fosters interdisciplinary collaboration across nanoscience, materials, photonics and biophysics, and students benefit from modern laboratory facilities and computational resources. Research centres and institutes on campus provide additional opportunities for cross-disciplinary projects.

The campus location in Be'er Sheva places students within a growing high-technology hub, enabling collaboration with regional industry, start-ups and national research institutes. Small-group supervision, regular seminars and an emphasis on independent research prepare graduates for competitive PhD programmes and research-oriented careers.

Prospective students should review the department's research group pages to identify potential supervisors and research topics before applying, and contact the admissions office for programme-specific guidance and available teaching language options.