Physical Engineering

The curriculum in Physics Engineering focuses on providing a thorough understanding of the physical phenomena on which the latest technologies are based in order to fully understand and improve them, and above all to innovate. Curriculum participants need a strong grounding in microscopic physics, which involves studying quantum physics and its applications in atomic, molecular, nuclear and solid state physics. Other major fields of physics such as optics and acoustics are also covered, as are advanced mathematics and information technology since they are required for an understanding of modern physics. The curriculum has a broad approach so that successful graduates can seek employment in a number of different fields.Structure of curriculum and disciplines taughtThe Physics-Engineering curriculum is ideally started from the third year of the bachelor degree, with an optional course module in physics. The latter consists in teachings in mathematics, numerical analysis and quantum physics complementary to the ones taught in the first two years, together with introductory courses to solid-state, semiconductor and optics physics. The Physics-Engineering master is however accessible to engineering bachelors with other orientations, provided these few prerequisites are met by the student.The Master curriculum itself consists in a first mandatory year, with teaching modules in applied mathematics, microscopic physics, physical and nuclear engineering, as well as a technical project taking place outside the University, possibly as an internship or in development aid. The second year consists in a master thesis, a true introduction to scientific or technical research being conducted inside the Ecole polytechnique or outside (industry, research centre, other faculty or university…). The courses are organised around two main directions,quantum engineering and photonics,nuclear energy, science and technology,with a wide choice of optional courses. A 3-month internship can also be achieved, possibly coupled to the thesis, as well as a team-leader project.