Physical Engineering

Physical Engineering covers all modern technologies, e.g. from the fields of Micro- and Nanotechnology, Semiconductor Technology and Electronics, surface and thin-film Technology, Optics and Laser Technology, Medical Technology, Sensor Technology, Measurement and Analysis Technology.

Results of basic Physical-Chemical research are taken up and translated into practical applications or technical designs. The aim is to develop beneficial environmentally compatible and sustainable products and processes.

The study of Physical Engineering imparts a wide-ranging physical-chemical basic knowledge as well as the competences for interdisciplinary, technical problem solving. Accompanying topics are Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering and Electronics as well as other Engineering sciences.

The course is offered at technical colleges and universities. The courses also have names such as “Engineering Physics”, “Energy and Materials Physics” or “Physical Technologies”.

In the bachelor's program, modules teach the general mathematical, physical, chemical, information technology and engineering basic skills. Subject-specific fundamentals are taught in relation to the specific focus of the respective university in courses on, for example, materials science, fluid mechanics and thermodynamics, solid-state physics, electronics, automation technology, technical optics, laser physics, technical mechanics, computer science and design theory.

The technical and methodological competence can be deepened in application-related modules, for example in the fields of measurement, control and regulation technology, vacuum and cryogenics, technical optics, nanostructures, medical physics, laser technologies, spectroscopy, technical acoustics or solar technology.

Physical engineering graduates (physical engineers) work in all areas of the scientific and technological development chain. Depending on the professional orientation and interests, this includes activities in research institutes, development departments of companies, in production, planning, sales and service. Physics Engineers also work, for example, in the automotive industry and aviation, in mechanical and Plant Engineering, in the semiconductor industry, Communication Technology, the Optical Industry or in the areas of Laser Technology and Medical Technology. Many of these sectors are important for the German economy, so there are good career prospects with interesting activities.