Master in Advanced Materials

Advanced materials are functional materials modified at the molecular level to perform specific roles in applications where standard materials fall short. This research-oriented Master's programme at Justus Liebig University Giessen examines questions central to materials science: what properties extend the service life of an electric car battery, what coatings raise the efficiency of a solar cell, and which materials remain compatible with the human body in implant applications. Drawing on interdisciplinary knowledge from chemistry and physics, students develop the capacity to understand, engineer, and optimise materials for fields such as medicine, mobility, communication, energy supply, and aerospace. The programme runs over 4 semesters and covers 120 ECTS credit points. Core modules in the first part of the programme address Functional Solid-State Materials, Functional Soft Materials, Technical Basics of Advanced Materials, and Renewable Energies. Students choose a specialisation from the start — options include Electrochemical materials research, High-performance materials, Materials analysis, Theoretical materials research, Sustainable inorganic materials, and Organic materials synthesis. A dedicated research module follows, in which students work on a current research question both theoretically and in the laboratory, before completing the Master's thesis. The programme is embedded in ongoing materials research in Giessen, with a focus on high-performance materials and energy materials, giving students the opportunity to work alongside active research projects. A double degree pathway is available with partner institutions including Osaka University (Japan), Kansai University (Japan), and the University of Padua (Italy). Graduates are equipped for roles in research and development across high-technology industries. The programme begins in the winter semester at Justus Liebig University Giessen in Gießen.