Master Degree in
Physical and Astrophysical Sciences
Theoretical Physics
Coordinator
Giuliano Panico, giuliano.panico [at] unifi.it
Curriculum details
The Theoretical Physics curriculum offers a training path aimed at providing students with all the theoretical tools needed to tackle a wide range of topics in modern physics: from quantum field theory to the fundamental interactions of elementary particles, from gravity to cosmology, and from matter in its fundamental states to matter at extreme temperatures and densities.
In the courses recommended to students, currently vibrant research areas at the international level will be presented, such as primordial cosmology, string theory, relativistic matter, and black hole physics, as well as their interconnections.
Research activities are carried out not only in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Florence but also at the National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN) and the Galileo Galilei Institute for Theoretical Physics in Arcetri.
The Theoretical Physics curriculum provides training that hones mathematical analysis and modeling skills of problems, both analytically and numerically, and fosters a general attitude to approach complex topics. This skillset proves valuable for future careers in both academia and research institutes, as well as in private companies.
For more information on Theoretical Physics research in Florence, visit here.
The structure of the curriculum in Theoretical Physics is summarized in the following table:
|
Type |
Course |
CFU |
Sector |
|
|
Core courses (54 cfu) |
General relativity Mathematical methods for theoretical physics Quantum field theory I Quantum field theory II Statistical mechanics One course to choose from: Cosmic rays Fusion, fission and nuclear reactions Nuclear and subnuclear physics Physics of elementary particle One course to choose from: Atoms, molecules, and photons Computational physics laboratory Condensed matter physics and critical phenomena Elements of matter physics Quantum information Theory of complex networks One course to choose from: Astrophysics Cosmology Physics of the atmosphere and climate Plasma physics Relativistic astrophysics |
6 6 9 9 6
6 6 6 6
6 6 6 6 6 6
6 6 6 6 6 |
FIS/02 FIS/02 FIS/02 FIS/02 FIS/02
FIS/04 FIS/04 FIS/04 FIS/04
FIS/03 FIS/03 FIS/03 FIS/03 FIS/03 FIS/03
FIS/05 FIS/05 FIS/06 FIS/06 FIS/05 |
|
|
Related and supplementary courses (12 cfu) |
Two courses to choose from this list |
12 |
|
|
|
Elective courses (12 cfu) |
Courses chosen from the curriculum not already selected, or offered in other curricula, or in other degree programs at the University of Florence |
12 |
||
|
Further knowledge (6 cfu) |
English language B2 Italian language (for foreigners) Training activities for professional choices Training and orientation internships |
3 3 3 6 |
||
|
Final exam (36 cfu) |
Final exam: research work Final exam: writing and discussion |
30 6 |
||
|
TOTAL |
|
120 |
||
Following this structure, any student can get a personalized plan approved automatically online.
|
Additional recommended electives and free choice courses (4 courses, 6 cfu each)
Advanced quantum field theory Elements of quantum gravity Theory of relativistic matter Theories of the early universe Theory of quantum many-body systems Aspetti teorici della meccanica quantistica* Introduzione alla relatività generale*
Notes: *Strongly advised if not already taken in the Bachelor's degree program (course in Italian) |
Last
update
18.06.2025