Entrance requirements |
2HC3 + 4OD3, English, Irish, OD3/HD3 in Mathematics, OD3/HD3 in a Science subject (i.e. Agricultural Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Physics with Chemistry) |
|
Duration |
4 years |
|
Points 2009 |
410 |
|
FETAC link |
Yes |
|
Course Outline |
First Year
- Physics of Motion - Energy in the Modern World - Atomic Picture of Matter Light - Astronomical Principles and Telescopes Solar - System and Planetary Science - Large Scale Universe - Special Topics in Modern Astronomy |
Second Year
- Astronomy - Quantum Physics - Astronomical Instrumentation - Physical Optics - Electricity and Electronics - Classical Mechanics - Thermodynamics |
Third Year
- Stars and Galaxies - Relativity, Gravitation, and Cosmology - Electromagnetism - Thermal Physics and Statistical Mechanics - Modern Physics - Computational Physics |
Fourth Year
- Atoms, Quanta, Nuclear and Particle Physics - Electromagnetic Radiation and Modern Optics - Planetary Science - Radio Astronomy and the ISM - Observational Cosmology and Extragalactic Astrophysics - Advanced Astrophysics Project - Solid State Physics - Statistics and Data Analysis - Computational Physics - Device Physics with Applications in Astronomy
|
Astrophysics is the study of the principles governing astronomy – one of the oldest sciences and a source of fascination for humankind through the ages. Every single atom on our planet originated either at the birth of the Universe (just after the Big Bang) or was cooked inside a star eons ago, so it's not surprising that humans have always looked to the night sky in wonder. Astrophysics seeks to understand and explain the forces that govern the Universe.
As a student, you will learn how to analyse and explain complex issues, to identify problems and work out solutions, and to enter into the unknown with an open mind. Lab work and practical modules ensure that you have a thorough grasp of key astrophysical principles, pure and applied physics, and computational physics.
Course Structure
Physics with Astrophysics is taken as a Single Honours Bachelor of Science degree.
In First Year, students take Experimental Physics, Mathematics, and two other subjects from Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science*, or Mathematical Physics. In Second Year, students take Experimental Physics and two other subjects from Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science*, Mathematics, or Mathematical Physics. In Third Year, students take Physics with Astrophysics and one other subject. In Fourth Year, students take Physics with Astrophysics only, or they may switch to Single Honours in their other Third Year subject if they wish.
* Students taking Computer Science in Second Year must also take Mathematics.
Career Options
Our technology-driven society means that physicists are in demand, but graduates are suitable for a wide range of occupations, not only in high-tech fields but also in areas where analytical and problem-solving skills are valued. Graduates may consider careers in areas such as aerospace engineering, meteorology, micro-electronics and computing, telecommunications, semiconductors, banking, finance, management and teaching. Entry into research is also an option.
Postgraduate Options
- MSc
- PhD
- We also have active research programmes in submillimetre-wave and gamma-ray astronomy, with involvement in European Space Agency projects such as the Far Infrared and Submillimetre Space Telescope and the Planck Surveyor.
Department of Experimental Physics |
Tel: 01 708 3641 Fax: 01 708 3313 Email: physics.department@nuim.ie http://physics.nuim.ie |