Studying ‘Foundations and Philosophy of Physics’ at Radboud
5 March 2026 (11-12 and 14-18 CET) International Online Information Day on new FPP Master's Programme (link: tba)
At the top of each hour we will present an overview of the programme. Afterwards, you can ask questions. We're looking forward to meeting you!
Beginning September 2026, students can choose to focus on foundations and philosophy of physics within their physics master's at Radboud University. The programme is in the final stages of approval. We will provide more detailed information about the curriculum shortly.
The FPP Programme
‘Foundations and Philosophy of Physics’ (FPP) is an interdisciplinary focus option in the master's Physics and Astronomy. Students study major physical theories and their historical development from a philosophical and conceptual angle and critically reflect on physics’ assumptions, methodology, and implications.
The FPP program is designed for physics students who wish to delve into the foundations and philosophical implications of their (sub-)discipline and aim to pursue doctoral research in the scientific disciplines of philosophy of physics, general philosophy of science, or mathematical physics. By amending a rigorous physics training with further analytical skills, the program equips graduating students with the critical thinking and writing skills, and the conceptual clarity needed for starting a career in research. It is also well suited for pivoting to areas such as science communication.
Curriculum
The curriculum integrates compulsory courses from both physics and philosophy with a specialized training in philosophy of physics proper.
- 30-36 EC physics courses
- 18-24 EC philosophy of physics courses
- 3 EC research seminar
- 60 EC research internship/thesis components
In the first year, students receive physics training tailored to their individual interests in the areas of mathematical physics, fundamental particle physics, astrophysics, neurophysics, or condensed matter physics. In the second year, the specialized FPP courses take place, including introductory and advanced courses in philosophy of physics and general philosophy of science. Throughout their studies, students will attend the FPP research seminar, be part of the Radboud Center for Natural Philosophy, and get acquainted with the international philosophy of physics community.
Why foundations and philosophy of physics?
Philosophy of Physics is a highly international and flourishing discipline at the intersection of physics, general philosophy of science, epistemology, and metaphysics. In the Netherlands, the history and philosophy of physics community is particularly large and active. Besides Nijmegen, there are major centers in Amsterdam, Groningen, and Utrecht.
Typical topics studied in foundations and philosophy of physics include the interpretation of quantum mechanics, the philosophy of space and time, conceptual issues in QFT, the nature of entropy, and fundamentality and emergence.
Important Dates
Here are a few important dates to keep in mind (see also here):
Application Deadlines
1 April 2026 for non-EU/EEA students without scholarship
1 May 2026 for EU/EEA students with housing assistance
1 July 2026 for EU/EEA (incl. Dutch) students without housing assistance
Students will need to apply via Studielink before the deadline.
Enrolment Deadlines
1 June 2026 for non-EU/EEA students
15 August 2026 for EU/EEA students
31 August 2026 for Dutch students
