Deciding between Groningen and Leipzig

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In summary, the decision between Groningen and Leipzig involves considering various factors such as academic offerings, cultural experiences, cost of living, and lifestyle preferences. Groningen is known for its vibrant student life and smaller, close-knit community, while Leipzig offers a larger urban environment with rich historical and cultural attractions. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual priorities and what each city has to offer in terms of education and personal growth.
  • #1
mih1451
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Hello!
I'm a student from Croatia looking to enroll either in uni Groningen or Leipzig, but I'm having a really hard time deciding, so I thought I could say some pros and cons, and you could give me your opinions.

Leipzig:
  • +much cheaper (free tuition+ much lower cost of apartments)
  • +I already know a bit of German (around A2) so I feel like it would be easier to live in Germany
  • +I have relatives that work in Germany, so it'd be easier if I needed help with something
  • -on every site that I look at for rankings, Leipzig is quite a bit lower that Groningen
  • -I feel like (just from reading the descriptions on their site) that they focus much more on getting you into a job in the industry as quickly as possible after a BCs. Again, could be completely wrong and also not necessarily a bad thing, but it's not what I want.)
  • -the program lasts 4 years and while I would be getting 240 ECTS from what I've read that isn't really necessary for getting into a good masters (planing on trying for Zürich)

Groningen:
  • +I feel like it's a much better university
  • -the cost of living (particularly the cost of apartments and the tuition)
All in all, I think that I'd definitely go for Groningen if it wasn't for the financial side (my family can afford it, but it just wouldn't be as loose with the finances, especially since I have a brother who is also starting college next year)

Thanks for reading and I hope that you could give me your thoughts, so I can be sure in my decision.
 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF.

You didn't mention what program you will be applying to, so I'd assume you are asking about the Physics departments? Do you have any particular specialties in mind?
 
  • #3
Yeah, sorry I was talking about their physics programs. I don't really know in what I want to specialize😅
 
  • #4
mih1451 said:
Yeah, sorry I was talking about their physics programs. I don't really know in what I want to specialize😅
Perhaps, like many of us at some point, you want to specialize on everything.
 
  • #5
Before deciding I would make sure that the programs in question meet the admissions requirements for ETH's Physics master's program. The admissions requirement is for a degree equivalent to their bachelor's of Physics and needs to include:

Part 1: Basic knowledge and skills
Part 1 covers basic knowledge from the disciplines Mathematics and Physics. The substance of the following course units is required:

1a Mathematics
− Analysis I
− Analysis II
− Linear Algebra I
− Linear Algebra II
− Numerical Methods
− Computer Science
− Complex Analysis
− Methods of Mathematical Physics I
− Methods of Mathematical Physics II

1b Physics
− Mechanics and Heat
− Oscillations and Waves
− Electricity and Magnetism
− Quantum Physics

1c Practicals, Proseminars, Semester Theses
− Physics practicals
− Semester thesis projects (experimental or theoretical) and proseminars

Part 2: Subject-specific knowledge and skills
Part 2 covers specific knowledge in the disciplines of Physics. The substance of the following course units is required:

A) Theoretical Physics
− General Mechanics
− Electrodynamics
− Quantum Mechanics I
− * Quantum Mechanics II
− * Theory of Heat
− * Continuum Mechanics

B) Core subjects of Experimental Physics
− * Astrophysics
− * Solid State Physics
− * Nuclear and Particle Physics
− * Quantum Electronics

From the course unit groups marked with an asterisk (*) the content of at least four course units is required, of which at least one must belong to Theoretical Physics and at least two must belong to the core subjects of Experimental Physics.

https://ethz.ch/content/dam/ethz/sp...Physics (non-binding english translation).pdf

If both programs are equally suitable, then I would by all means pick the cheaper one to attend. European universities tend not to get hung up on the "prestige" or ranking of your undergraduate institution, and are not likely to discriminate on that basis so long as you have a solid foundation in the subject in question.
 
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Likes berkeman
  • #6
gwnorth said:
Before deciding I would make sure that the programs in question meet the admissions requirements for ETH's Physics master's program. The admissions requirement is for a degree equivalent to their bachelor's of Physics and needs to include:

Part 1: Basic knowledge and skills
Part 1 covers basic knowledge from the disciplines Mathematics and Physics. The substance of the following course units is required:

1a Mathematics
− Analysis I
− Analysis II
− Linear Algebra I
− Linear Algebra II
− Numerical Methods
− Computer Science
− Complex Analysis
− Methods of Mathematical Physics I
− Methods of Mathematical Physics II

1b Physics
− Mechanics and Heat
− Oscillations and Waves
− Electricity and Magnetism
− Quantum Physics

1c Practicals, Proseminars, Semester Theses
− Physics practicals
− Semester thesis projects (experimental or theoretical) and proseminars

Part 2: Subject-specific knowledge and skills
Part 2 covers specific knowledge in the disciplines of Physics. The substance of the following course units is required:

A) Theoretical Physics
− General Mechanics
− Electrodynamics
− Quantum Mechanics I
− * Quantum Mechanics II
− * Theory of Heat
− * Continuum Mechanics

B) Core subjects of Experimental Physics
− * Astrophysics
− * Solid State Physics
− * Nuclear and Particle Physics
− * Quantum Electronics

From the course unit groups marked with an asterisk (*) the content of at least four course units is required, of which at least one must belong to Theoretical Physics and at least two must belong to the core subjects of Experimental Physics.

https://ethz.ch/content/dam/ethz/special-interest/phys/department/studies/master/Programme Regulations 2014 MSc Physics (non-binding english translation).pdf

If both programs are equally suitable, then I would by all means pick the cheaper one to attend. European universities tend not to get hung up on the "prestige" or ranking of your undergraduate institution, and are not likely to discriminate on that basis so long as you have a solid foundation in the subject in question.
Thanks a bunch! I've checked and it seems that both univeristies fufill the requirements. I'm still a little on the fence just because the cheaper program lasts a year longer and I saw that ETH Zurich also looks at the uni world rankings during applying.
 
  • #7
I know from experience that the physics program in Groningen is excellent (I did my msc and PhD there), the Zernike (where STEM houses) has extended recently partly due to Feringa's Nobel prize in chemistry, and the city is fantastic for (foreign) students. If you're able to find a place to live that is, because housing is a serious problem.

Dutch is hard to learn for foreigners, but everyone speaks English anyway.
 
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Likes berkeman
  • #8
haushofer said:
Dutch is hard to learn for foreigners, but everyone speaks English anyway.
My first trip to NIKHEF I asked my host about the Dutch words for "please", "thanks you" etc. His advice? Just use English.
 
  • #9
Vanadium 50 said:
My first trip to NIKHEF I asked my host about the Dutch words for "please", "thanks you" etc. His advice? Just use English.
One of my Italian collegues was persistent to learn Dutch, but he also was to be found in bars three times a week. Everyone around him knew he was determined to learn Dutch. After four years he spoke better Dutch than me 🤣

In A'dam it's even worse. You really have to wear a T-Shirt saying "speak Dutch to me" if you want to succeed.
 
  • #10
Anyway, @mih1451 : if you have any specific questions about Groningen, I'll be happy to answer them. And become a member of TFV Professor Francken or FMF if you pick Groningen. That's the best way to connect with your peers, they organize seminars and (very affordable) study trips and the atmosphere there is great.

But as I said: housing is a notorious problem. If you want to start after the summer, you may want to start yesterday looking for a room :P
 

FAQ: Deciding between Groningen and Leipzig

Which city offers better educational opportunities for students?

Both Groningen and Leipzig have reputable universities. Groningen is home to the University of Groningen, which is known for its strong research programs and international student community. Leipzig hosts the University of Leipzig, one of the oldest universities in Germany, with a wide range of programs and a focus on humanities and social sciences. The choice depends on your field of study and personal preferences.

What is the cost of living like in Groningen compared to Leipzig?

The cost of living in Leipzig is generally lower than in Groningen. Housing, food, and transportation tend to be more affordable in Leipzig. However, Groningen offers a high quality of life and excellent student facilities, which might justify the higher costs for some.

How does the cultural scene compare between Groningen and Leipzig?

Leipzig has a rich cultural history and vibrant arts scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and music venues. It is known for its classical music heritage, particularly associated with Johann Sebastian Bach. Groningen also has a lively cultural scene, with various festivals, theaters, and a strong focus on contemporary arts. Both cities offer diverse cultural experiences, but Leipzig might appeal more to those interested in classical music and historical sites.

What are the job prospects for international students in Groningen and Leipzig?

Both cities offer job opportunities for international students, but the job market in Leipzig might be slightly more favorable due to Germany's larger economy. Groningen has a strong focus on research and innovation, which can provide good opportunities in academic and tech sectors. Language proficiency in Dutch or German can significantly enhance job prospects in either city.

How do the transportation systems in Groningen and Leipzig compare?

Leipzig has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, including trams, buses, and trains, making it easy to get around the city and travel to other parts of Germany. Groningen, being a smaller city, relies heavily on cycling as the primary mode of transportation, supported by a well-developed network of bike lanes. Both cities offer convenient and eco-friendly transportation options, but Leipzig might be more suitable for those who prefer public transit over cycling.

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