Department of Physics and Astronomy

We are delighted that you are interested in studying at the Department Physics and Astronomy at the University of Bochum. We offer a wide range of academic options and excellent support throughout your studies. We provide particularly close guidance during the initial phase of your studies to ensure that you get off to a good start.

Even before you begin your studies, there are opportunities Department our Department . For high school students, we offer support with research papers, lab tours, project weeks, and internships. You can find out more on the “School” page.

Tips & Events: 

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Inside RUB: Open House on June 11, 2026

Are you interested in the natural sciences and want to know if studying physics is right for you? Then come to the... on June 11, 2026

Open House at the Department of Physics and Astronomy: April 9

The Student Council and the Department Physics and Astronomy cordially invite you to an open house on April 9. We offer high school students...
Piles of books on a wooden table

Our study programmes

In the Department Physics and Astronomy, you can choose between two bachelor’s programs and three master’s programs.

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Physics course guidance

You are not yet sure whether physics is the right subject for you? Our subject advisors will be happy to help you decide and advise you on all questions regarding the study of physics.

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Central Student Advisory Service

Do you need general advice on starting your studies at RUB? The RUB's central student advisory service offers you many advisory and support services.

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Pre-course

We recommend that all first-year students attend our pre-course. The course refreshes your mathematical skills and provides you with the first general skills for your studies.

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Start of studies - first semester introduction

Here you can find out everything about the support services we offer to help you get started in the Department Physics and Astronomy.

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Scholarships

On this page you will find information about scholarships.

FAQ Prospective students

Do I have to apply for a Bachelor's degree?

No, our Bachelor's degree programs are admission-free. You can apply for the winter semester directly in the RUB application portal for the winter semester. 

What prerequisites do I need to study physics?

You do not need any special prerequisites to study physics. Of course, an interest in scientific topics is a prerequisite. If you are not sure whether studying physics is right for you, please contact our student advisory service.

How do I know if a physics degree is right for me?

Physics, as the foundation of the natural sciences, wants to understand our world and our universe from top to bottom. That is why our faculty motto is also "From Matter to Materials" - from matter to materials, from the very small to the very large, because everything interests us. So if you also want to "learn to understand" and are curious about the world and the universe, physics is the right place for you.

One important prerequisite, however, is that you are not completely averse to mathematics, because in physics we use maths as a tool. Don't worry, even if you don't have an A in maths, studying physics can still be just right for you. Our preliminary courses and the basic studies will teach you exactly the tools you need as a physicist. In addition, we don't leave you on your own during your studies; there are various offers to help you work through and deepen the material you have learned. You can find out more about this on the website of the study network.

Do I need special language skills?

The language of instruction for the Bachelor's programme is German. However, as we are internationally linked and many scientific texts are only available in English, it is advantageous if you have a solid knowledge of English.

Do I have to attend a preliminary course?

We recommend that you attend our pre-course, but attendance is not compulsory. In the preliminary course, mathematical skills are refreshed and deepened. You can find all information about the preliminary course on the overview page.

Our FAQ section is constantly being updated. If you Department any further questions about studying in our Department , please contact our academic advising office.

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