TU Darmstadt
Soft Matter and Μatеrials
(Starting: Both Semesters)
- Starting
- Both Semesters
- Mode of Admission:
- no admission restriction
- Study Mode:
- On campus
- Registration Fee & Tuition Information:
- Applicants with international qualifications will be notified in their letter of admission whether applicable fees apрlу.
Program Video
M.Sc. Soft Matter and Materials – Your International Master’s at JGU Mainz & TU Darmstadt
Five Reasons to choose this Master's Program
Course Description
The Master's program in Soft Matter and Materials, offered at the Mainz and Darmstadt campuses, kicks off with an intensive curriculum focusing on physical and chemical principles in the first two semesters. The program then transitions into a more flexible, research-oriented structure where students can opt for subjects based on their individual preferences and career objectives. Notably, the program is designed to incorporate an increasing amount of hands-on practical components throughout all semesters. The course aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of polymers, supramolecular tectons, and colloids, thereby enriching students' conceptual knowledge and practical skills in the field. It thoroughly explores the relationship between the structure, dynamics, and properties of soft matter and materials. In addition, students will delve into the principles of functionality, exploring both synthetic and biologically relevant components. By the culmination of the program, students will possess an extensive understanding of how soft materials are technically processed and industrially used, preparing them for a myriad of career opportunities in this burgeoning field.
The M.Sc. program in Soft Matter and Materials is designed for students who hold a Bachelor's degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, physics, or materials science and who would like to obtain more insight into an interdisciplinary and international field of study.
The M.Sc. Soft Matter and Materials comprises a total amount of 120 ECTS credit points. ECTS points are credit points acquired under the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System. To get one ECTS credit point, a student has to complete an estimated 30 hours of work. Here is the potential semester outlook:
1st Semester (JGU)
- Macromolecular Chemistry
- Modern and Industrial Aspects of Ploymer Materials
- Colloids and Interfaces
- Modern Aspects of Macromolecular Chemistry (Practical Course)
- Advanced Statistical Physics
2nd Semester (TU Darmstadt)
- Physics of Soft Matter I
- Physics of Soft Matter II
- Physics Experiments & Theory (Practical Work)
- Advanced Polymer Chemistry and Polymer Nanotechnology
2 of the following 4 options:
- Polymers at Interfaces
- Chemical Technology of Pulp and Paper
- Sustainable Polymer Chemistry
- Engineering Aspects in Macromolecular Chemistry
3rd Semester
- Advanced Soft Matter and Materials
- Two 8-week research modules as part of current projects concerning research topics of a supervising work group (either at JGU, TUDa, or MPI-P)
or:
- Advanced Soft Matter and Materials
- One 16-week research module as part of current projects concerning the research topics of a supervising work group (either at JGU, TUDa, or MPI-P)
4th Semester:
- Master’s thesis
The four-semester full-time study program consists of 120 ECTS credits.
- The first half of the study program teaches specialized knowledge and practical skills in the laboratory, often developed through teamwork in small groups.
- The program's second half teaches the independent application of the acquired knowledge in research projects, concluding with a scientific paper and a presentation.
- The final examination is a master's thesis, in which the student independently develops and resolves a research task and subsequently writes a scientific paper.
Graduates of the M.Sc. Soft Matter and Materials have plenty of career opportunities, including:
- Management positions in chemical and biotechnological industries in Germany and abroad.
- Leading roles in national and international (bio-physico) chemical companies.
- Senior positions in IT companies and banks, particularly for students inclined towards physical sciences.
- Highly sought after for project management positions in various industries.
- Opportunities in foundations and organizations requiring interdisciplinary natural scientists.
- Pursuing a doctorate opens doors to increased responsibility and leadership roles.
- Doctorate degree recommended for career advancement and academic positions.
- Abundant doctoral study opportunities at TU Darmstadt and JGU Mainz.
- Extensive research associations in soft matter and soft materials field.
Special Program Features
Join the academic hub
As M.Sc. Soft Matter and Materials student, you join the prestigious Rhine-Main Universities (RMU) alliance—a network of top-tier universities in the Rhine-Main region.
Take advantage of small class sizes and individual support
Smaller class sizes foster a personal atmosphere with stronger group interaction and higher engagement. Professors can also give you more individualized guidance and attention.
Choose electives
The program features a range of elective courses, giving you the flexibility to shape your own curriculum. This freedom lets you tailor your studies to match your academic goals.
Partner Universities
All Partner Universities
TU Darmstadt
Webinars with MyGermanUniversity
Upcoming webinars
12 January 2027, 04:00 PM (Europe/Berlin)
Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz
M.Sc. Soft Matter and Μatеrials TU Darmstadt
M.Sc. Soft Matter and Μatеrials Requirements
Qualification Requirements
The application requirements for the study program in "Soft Matter and Μatеrials" are:
A bachelor's degree consisting of 210 ECTS* in one of the following areas:
- Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering
- Physics
- Materials Science
*Graduates with only 180 ECTS have to meet additional requiremеnts.
Proof of practical experience in a lab: at least 18 credits - part of which must be carried out using chemical working methods.
Proof of achievement in nuclear and molecular sciences: at least 3 credits.
Proof of achievement in thermodynamics: at least 3 crеdits,
Language Requirements
The following certificates are recognized as proof of your language proficiency.
EnglishSpecification: At least C, or a score of 180.
Specification: C1.
Application & Admission
Application Deadlines
German Students 
Other EU Students 
Non-EU Students Non-EU StudentsGerman Students
- TU Darmstadt
| Intake | Winter Semester | Summer Semester |
| Application deadline | 15 Septemberin > 10 months | 01 Marchin 108 days |
| Application mode | Directly at university | Directly at university |
Other EU Students
- TU Darmstadt
| Intake | Winter Semester | Summer Semester |
| Application deadline | 15 Septemberin > 10 months | 01 Marchin 108 days |
| Application mode | Directly at university | Directly at university |
Application Procedure & Selection
Application Documents
Location
Further Information
Your Personal Contact
Prof. Dr. Sebastian Seiffert
Study Program Coordinator Mainz
Contact Details:
+49 (0) 6131 39 23887
sebastian.seiffert@uni-mainz.de
Prof. Dr. Regine von Klitzing
Study Program Coordinator Darmstadt
Contact Details:
+49 (0) 6151 16 24506
klitzing@fkp.tu-darmstadt.de
Dr. Regine Angert
Studies Manager Darmstadt
Contact Details:
+49 (0) 6151 16 20287
studienbuero@physik.tu-darmstadt.de
Program Flyer
Learn More About the M.Sc. Soft Matter and Materials!
Get the program flyer with key details about the contents, application process, admission requirements, and career opportunities.
