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Physics

Physics is concerned with describing and explaining natural phenomena – from processes taking place in atoms and molecules to the evolution of stars, galaxies and the Universe as a whole.

The programme is intended for students interested in understanding the laws governing nature and the methods used in contemporary scientific research. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience gained through laboratory work, data analysis and computational methods.

The curriculum covers both experimental and theoretical physics and provides the mathematical and computational background necessary for describing physical phenomena and conducting scientific research.

What will students learn?

During their studies, students:

  • conduct experiments and work with modern research equipment,
  • analyse experimental data using statistical and computational methods applied in contemporary scientific research,
  • learn programming and modelling techniques used to study physical phenomena,
  • gain knowledge of classical and modern physics and its applications.

The Bachelor's programme provides a foundation in both experimental and theoretical physics, together with the mathematical and computational tools required for further study and research.

Why study Physics at Jagiellonian University?

Physics in Kraków has a tradition spanning more than two centuries. Research conducted at Jagiellonian University covers a broad range of contemporary fields – from atomic physics and condensed matter physics to particle physics and cosmology.

From the early stages of their studies, students are exposed to current research projects, modern scientific methods and active research groups working within national and international collaborations.

Career opportunities

Physics graduates:

  • pursue scientific careers and continue their education in doctoral programmes,
  • find employment in research and development centres and high-technology sectors,
  • build careers in data science, data analysis and information technology,
  • work in industry, finance and technology-based companies.

A degree in Physics provides not only scientific knowledge but also the ability to analyse complex problems, work with data and apply quantitative methods. These skills are valued both in academia and across a wide range of industries.

Experimental and theoretical physics complement one another – theoretical models and predictions are verified through experiments, while experimental results contribute to the development of new theories describing the physical world.

Master's Specialisations

Experimental and theoretical physics complement one another – what is predicted in models is tested against reality through experiment.

Experimental Physics focuses on investigating the laws of nature through experimentation, measurement and data analysis.

The specialisation is intended for students interested in laboratory work, experimental methods and the practical study of physical phenomena.

During their studies, students:

  • design and perform experiments,
  • work with advanced research equipment,
  • learn modern methods of data analysis used in scientific research and technology,
  • gain practical laboratory experience.

Research conducted at the Marian Smoluchowski Institute of Physics covers a wide range of contemporary topics.

In atomic and molecular physics, research includes experiments with cold atoms, studies employing ultrasensitive magnetometers and investigations of colour centres in diamond.

In condensed matter physics, research focuses on topological materials, two-dimensional electron gases and surface phenomena studied using scanning probe microscopy.

In nuclear and particle physics, research groups participate in international experiments, including projects conducted at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN, where the limits of the Standard Model are tested and new particles are sought.

The skills developed during the programme – ranging from laboratory techniques and instrumentation to data analysis and problem-solving – are applicable both in scientific research and in many sectors of the modern economy.

Theoretical Physics is concerned with developing and refining models that describe physical phenomena.

The specialisation is intended for students interested in the mathematical description of nature and in addressing fundamental questions about the laws governing the Universe.

During their studies, students:

  • develop advanced mathematical skills,
  • learn methods of modelling physical systems,
  • analyse complex physical phenomena,
  • construct models describing processes ranging from elementary particles to cosmological structures.

Theoretical models not only explain known phenomena but often predict new effects that are later confirmed experimentally. The development of quantum physics is one example of this process.

Theoretical research contributes to the understanding of phenomena underlying modern technologies such as quantum computing, as well as novel states of matter, including time crystals.

The analytical and quantitative skills developed during the programme – including modelling, data analysis and advanced mathematical reasoning – are valuable in physics, data science, finance and technology-related fields.

Astrophysics and Cosmology focus on the study of objects and processes occurring throughout the Universe – from stars and galaxies to the evolution of the cosmos itself.

The specialisation is intended for students interested in the physical description of phenomena occurring on the largest observable scales in nature.

During their studies, students:

  • explore the physical processes governing the Universe,
  • learn methods of analysing observational data,
  • study the construction of astrophysical and cosmological models,
  • participate in courses addressing current problems in astrophysics and cosmology.

Topics covered include:

  • black holes,
  • pulsars,
  • supernovae,
  • accretion discs,
  • active galactic nuclei,
  • exoplanets,
  • environments favourable to the emergence of life,
  • gamma-ray bursts,
  • the evolution of the Universe.

Modern cosmology relies on precise measurements that make it possible to investigate the expansion rate, composition and history of the Universe. At the same time, many questions remain open. One example is the Hubble tension – one of the most important unresolved problems in contemporary cosmology.

Another rapidly developing area is gravitational-wave astronomy, which enables the study of collisions between black holes and neutron stars and provides new opportunities for testing the laws of physics under extreme conditions.

Astrophysics and cosmology are among the fastest-growing fields of modern science. Many fundamental questions concerning the structure and evolution of the Universe remain unanswered, making them active areas of ongoing research.