Studying Space Physics
The study plan in space physics includes both space physics- and technology oriented aspects. During the first years the plan overlaps with other physics study plans in the department and includes basic experimental and theoretical physics. This is important, because as an experimental researcher you need to have a background in theory and when you work with theory or model calculations you need to have an understanding of measurements and experimental problems.
At a later stage, you can choose which aspect you want to concentrate on, like e.g. instrument development, laboratory work, computer simulations, radar observations, other observations, or a theoretical project related to one of those. Depending on the specialization you will also have contact with industry e.g. the providers of rockets and instrumentation. Some students choose to work on external master thesis projects.
Former space science students are working in many different fields. Some are listed below and give you an idea how broad the options are.
Directly space-related:
- Space research (basic/ applied)
- Space industry
- Space administration (ESA, national space agencies)
Teaching:
- Highschool teaching
- College/University teaching
Research management
- Public services
Research in other fields:
- Atmospheric/environmental research
- Astrophysical research
- Applied physics research
Work in business/ industry:
- Software development /IT
- Instrument development
- Chemical industry
- Publishing house
- Bank/business
- Weather forecast
Information for Students