skip to content

Master of Science program "Physics of the Earth and Atmosphere"

The M.Sc. program "Physics of the Earth and Atmosphere " is offered in English and is suitable for both German and international students. The M.Sc. courses are designed to impart advanced knowledge in a field of your preference – either Geophysics or Meteorology. The program allows you to acquire the advanced skills and in-depth understanding for your future career as a geophysicist and/or a meteorologist. In addition to exposure to the state of the art Geophysics and Meteorology, you will learn how to think and work independently and thoroughly in science. 

The M.Sc. program builds on the knowledge you would have already acquired at the B.Sc. level. Graduates from related B.Sc. programs are also encouraged to apply for the M.Sc. program, on the condition that the admission requirements are met. Please note that the Application deadlines for starting the degree program in summer/winter semester are the 15th of January and the 15th of July respectively.

• How weather forecasting models and climate models function
• How motions in the earth’s interior and crust are simulated
• How solar winds, planets, and their moons interact
• How electromagnetic methods of applied geophysics can be used for the exploration of the earth

In addition you will learn methods which enable you to obtain the greatest amount of information about the state on the state of the atmosphere or the earth from a limited number of measurements. These ‘inverse methods’ are used in many areas of the natural, as well as social, sciences. The core subjects (modules) that are offered in this program are as follows:

M.Sc. Physics of the Earth and Atmosphere
Core subjects for Geophysics:

• Geophysics of the solar system
• Space Physics
• Seismology
• Geophysics - Advanced field course
• Electrical and electromagnetic methods of Applied Geophysics

Core subjects for Meteorology:

• Physics of the Atmosphere
• Physical Climatology
• Radiation, Clouds and Precipitation
• Meteorology – Advanced field course
• Dynamics of the Atmosphere

The last two semesters are dedicated to the preparation and writing of your Master's thesis. You will learn how to approach and assess scientific questions and will be able to do this in a research area which fascinates you. There are different research areas in our institute you can get write your thesis in, and if you have ideas about certain research topics you will be encouraged to pursue them.
This M.Sc. degree program is a partnership degree program jointly offered by the University of Bonn and the University of Cologne, and thus offers the students a very wide range of optional modules. Further detailed information about the Master's degree program can be found here.

Slides Introductory Session 09.10.2023