Molecular Sciences and Simulation

Requirements

 Required degree

Required credits

1. 10 CP in Mathematics

2. 8 CP in Theoretical Chemistry and/or Spectroscopic Techniques and/or Quantum Mechanics and/or equivalent topics

E.g. these requirements serve to ensure similar starting conditions for our future students. A good indicator if you are suited for our Master Course Program is that you understand most of the terms listed below:

Mathematics: You are familiar with basic mathematical concepts like real and complex valued vector spaces, matrices and operators, basis set transformations, partial differentiation, integration over arbitrary dimensional spaces, some common types of differential equations and their solutions, and basic statistical entities like distributions, averages, data regression and hypothesis tests.

Quantum Mechanics: You are able to explain basic concepts like particle wave dualism, operators, and wavefunctions and know the solutions to simple quantum mechanical problems (e.g. particle in the box, harmonic oscillator, hydrogen atom).

General Physics and Spectroscopy: You are familiar with basic concepts of classical mechanics, thermodynamics/statistical mechanics (e.g. microcanonical and canonical ensembles) and have some basic knowledge on approximate solutions of the Schrödinger equation such as perturbation theory and the Born-Oppenheimer approximation. You know the difference of spectroscopic concepts like rotational spectroscopy, rovibrational IR spectroscopy of simple molecules, fluorescence and Raman-spectroscopy

Since we expect a variety of applicants, we offer a preparatory course in general mathematics (Module M) right before the start of our core program, as well as a selection of elective courses that serve to strengthen your knowledge in those fields not fully covered by your bachelor studies.

What is the minimum grade to be accepted into the program?

There is no definitive answer to this question as the required grade mainly depends on where you come from. You are thus requested to send us your application documents when you have completed your first degree (e.g. Bachelor) program, when you are about to complete it, i.e. when you are a few credits shy of your degree. If you do not have the required grades, but believe your additional skills qualify you for the Master of Science course, you are welcome to send us your application. In the selection procedure we will favorably consider your additional qualifications.

Compared to the German rating system (according to which 1.0 is the best and 4.0 is the lowest grade), you should have an average of at least 2.0. All foreign grades will be evaluated according to this system. In order to give you an idea of what your chances are for admission to the program, the following rules of thumb can be applied:

in GPA-ratings (maximum grade 4.0, minimum grade to pass 2.0) you need at least an average of 3.0

in percentage-ratings (100% maximum, minimum grade to pass 40%), you need at least 70%

if your degree includes ratings like “first division”, “first division with distinction” etc., you should have at least earned one of the two best ratings

How do I know if my university will be recognized?

Again, there is no definitive answer to this question. Usually, degrees/universities will be recognized if

the university from which you earned your degree is one of the top-ranking universities in your country

there are both three-year and four-year Bachelor programs offered in your home country, your degree results from a four-year Bachelor program.

Language requirements

The language of instruction is English. You must provide proof that you have sound English language skills.

To be accepted to the program, at least one of the following requirements must be fulfilled:

completion of your first degree program in English (this means that ALL lectures must have been held in English)

TOEFL: minimum score paper-based 600, computer-based 250, internet-based 100; the TOEFL score must not be older than two years and sent to us directly from the Educational Testing Service (ETS). The Institution Code is 7657.

IELTS: minimum score 6.0; the score must be sent to us directly from the testing center

Do I need to have German language skills?

All courses are taught in English. Hence, German language skills are not required for admission to the program. However, some pre-knowledge of the German language will be very helpful in everyday life and it will considerably help you to socialize with other RUB students. We thus strongly recommend you to take German classes, ideally before you come to Germany. Ruhr-Universität Bochum offers free German language courses for all levels each semester.