TechnoPhysics: when physics and mechanical engineering become one

"You're studying techno? The music genre?" TechnoPhysics student Kaya Gauch has often heard questions like these - although TechnoPhysics is a practice-oriented Bachelor's degree course in Kaiserslautern that combines physics and mechanical engineering. A perfect mix of both worlds, as she explains in the interview.

How were your first days at RPTU and your start to your studies?

Kaya Gauch: When you set foot on campus on your first day at university, it's an overwhelming feeling. A new phase of life begins and there are new people everywhere. Before the start of lectures, I first went to the math pre-course, which prepares me for the math part of my studies. That was very helpful: then, or at the latest when the lectures and seminars start afterwards, you realize whether the course suits you. After seven semesters, my conclusion is that if you want to study technophysics, you not only have to enjoy physics, but also know math.

Why did you decide to study technophysics?

Kaya Gauch: I already liked the subjects of physics and math at school. However, studying pure physics was too abstract for me. That's why I decided to study TechnoPhysics, because it's a joint degree program between the departments of Physics and Mechanical & Process Engineering. I particularly like the fact that the TechnoPhysics course is practice-oriented and less theoretical than a pure physics course. Just right for me.

Ms Cappello, you are a study manager in the physics department. What other differences are there between a TechnoPhysics degree and a Physics degree? For whom is TechnoPhysics the right choice?

Dr. Sabrina Cappello: The focus of TechnoPhysics is more application-oriented. Compared to physics studies, technophysics deals with more abstract areas, such as quantum mechanics or mathematics, in a more application-oriented way and not in the same theoretical depth. On the other hand, technophysics students receive a deeper education in engineering disciplines such as process engineering, materials science or thermodynamics. This is ideal for anyone who finds studying physics too abstract and would like to go beyond mechanical engineering. Students particularly appreciate the mini-projects in the TechnoPhysics seminars, which promote project-oriented work at the interface between physics and mechanical engineering.

With such an interlinking of subjects, is it possible to do a Master's in another subject, such as physics or mechanical engineering, after a Bachelor's in TechnoPhysics?

Dr. Sabrina Cappello: Thanks to the modular structure of our degree programs, a subsequent Master's degree in physics is possible with conditions. It is also possible to complete a Master's degree in mechanical engineering.

How do you rate the career prospects? What is possible with a degree in TechnoPhysics?

Dr. Sabrina Cappello: There are excellent career prospects after graduation! The interdisciplinary and application-oriented training enables technophysicists to work in various technical fields in industry and research.

Kaya, your Bachelor's degree is getting closer and closer. Do you already know what comes next?

Kaya Gauch: After my bachelor's degree, I would definitely like to deepen my knowledge of the basics and focus on a master's degree. I would like to do this at RPTU again. The degree program with its combination of physics and mechanical engineering is unique in this form in Germany. I don't yet know where I'll go after that. What I already know is that I want to work in industry. A practice-oriented course like TechnoPhysics is an advantage. I think the combination of physics and mechanical engineering helps you to look at problems with knowledge from two different subjects. You think outside the box and form a good interface between the two fields.

Looking back after seven semesters: What were the biggest challenges for you on the TechnoPhysics degree course?

Kaya Gauch: I have to say that the exercises are demanding. But you're not on your own, you often work together in groups. The teamwork helps you to solve the problems and also to get to know other students and make friends. For example, I got to know a lot of great and helpful people after the preliminary math course and through the group work during the semester. These contacts are also worth their weight in gold when challenging exams are coming up. In general, there is a family-like sense of community at RPTU. The courses are small, so they are very personal and you know each other.

Your tip for all prospective students?

Kaya Gauch: Don't be shy and talk to students from higher semesters! That definitely helped me a lot. Their experiences are extremely valuable and really guided me through my studies. You should also find something that allows you to really switch off and recharge your batteries in addition to lectures, tutorials and exams. The Palatinate Forest and Unisport offer many opportunities to try out and burn off energy. The sports on offer are the perfect balance to my studies. I also enjoy spending time with my friends in the old town of Kaiserslautern, the city isn't too big and there's nothing missing. Or I can go to the Betze, where I can clear my head. 😉