Interested in a Customised Master's Programme With a Focus on Foundations and Philosophy of Physics?
Since this year, students can choose to focus on foundations and philosophy of physics within the physics master's at Radboud University. Foundations and Philosophy of Physics (FPP) integrates physics and philosophy, shifting the focus from application to conceptual understanding and foundational inquiry.
You can also talk to us on 12 November 2026 (16 CET) at the official Master's Open Day at Radboud University. We're happy to provide more information on the FPP and we're looking forward to meeting you! If you have missed the event, please contact us via email: kian.salimkhani@ru.nl and karla.weingarten@ru.nl
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.
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.
Curriculum
Physics Training (Year 1):Physics specialization, including a research internship (30 ECTS), in elective tracks:
- Particle physics, quantum field theory, astrophysics, and cosmology
- Complex systems, scientific experimentation, and simulation
- Quantum matter and solid state physics
- ...
Philosophy of physics specialization, building on the first-year track:
- Introductory and advanced courses in philosophy of science/physics
- Advances electives in physics and/or philosophy
- Research seminar
- FPP thesis (30 ECTS)
Application Deadlines
FPP is embedded in the Physics and Astronomy master's program at Radboud. Please find more information, including admission criteria and deadlines on https://www.ru.nl/en/education/masters/physics-and-astronomy
