Degree from a non-Dutch university

Admission to the programme is contingent on the content of your Bachelor’s programme.

There is no set limit on the number of students accepted. The programme allows students to use up to 15 ECTS (two courses) to remedy any deficiencies (”catch up” courses).

In order to be eligible for the Master’s programme in Climate Physics, you should have:

• solid basic knowledge in classical physics, especially fluid dynamics, as well as in the mathematics required for studying scientific topics at an advanced level;
• the ability to work independently as well as in groups to solve physical problems, present the results of solved problems, and to read (in English) physics literature at the level of graduate textbooks; and
• intermediate problem-solving skills in the field of physics and its applications.

Required degree

Applicants to the Master’s programme should hold one of the following degrees:

• a BSc with a major in physics;
• a BSc with a major in science, including a substantial number of credits in advanced undergraduate physics and calculus; or
• a bachelor’s with at least second-class honours (or equivalent honours, GPA, or other rating) issued by an accredited institution of higher education in the Netherlands. An Admissions Committee will determine whether to offer you admittance to the programme. You can learn more about the application procedure on the Applications page.

Admission of applicants will be decided upon by the Admissions Committee on an individual basis, taking into account level of knowledge, academic skills, motivation and performance during previous education.

This is a selective Master's programme. You will be considered for admission to the Master's programme Climate Physics if you hold a University bachelor degree and can demonstrate a high level of knowledge and command of methods & skills in the relevant field.

Additionally we consider:

• Motivation and talent (also on the basis of average grade and past studies progress);
• General high level of professional and intellectual ability;
• Command of the English language (see below).

Specifically, you should possess:

• Solid basic knowledge in classical mechanics, especially (geophysical) fluid dynamics, and, more importantly, knowledge in the mathematics required for the study of such topics at an advanced level. These essential mathematical knowledge includes calculus, linear algebra, vector calculus and (partial) differential equations.
• Basic knowledge of programming, ideally in Python.
• The ability to work independently as well as in groups on solving physical problems, present the results of solving problems and to read (English) physics literature at the level of graduate textbooks.
• Intermediate problem-solving skills in the main fields of physics and/or their applications.

Bachelor programmes that most likely meet the requirements are:

• A BSc degree in Physics,
• A BSc degree in Physics and Astronomy,
• A BSc degree with a major in Physics,
• A major in Science with a strong component in physics.

Applicants with a BSc and background in related fields like chemistry, earth sciences, geophysics, mathematics can be admitted if their background level in physics and mathematics is sufficient.

In all cases completion of an advanced course on geophysical fluid dynamics e.g. is beneficial for your eligibility and study progress during the master if admitted.