Bonn-Cologne Graduate School of Physics and Astronomy (BCGS)

is a joint program between the universities of Bonn and Cologne. It leads students with a bachelor's degree in physics (or related subject) to a master's degree. The most successful students then move on to doctoral studies, leading to a PhD. The M.Sc. and PhD programs are offered in both physics and astrophysics.

The BCGS provides mentoring and research internships, scholarships, travel funds and a vibrant research environment at the forefront of modern physics. Research areas at the two departments of Bonn and Cologne span almost the entire range of current physics: from astrophysics, biophysics and condensed matter research to particle physics, quantum optics and string theory. Both are German "Universities of Excellence," a title won in a highly competitive national contest that marks them as among the country's top research universities and brings significant additional funding.

Scholarships for master students are available on a competitive basis. These are open to applications from Germany, as well as other EU and non-EU countries. The application deadline for the following winter semester is December 1. Details about the application procedure can be found here: 'Applying for a Scholarship'.