How did the universe evolve? What are the basic building blocks of matter? These are the fundamental questions concerning physics, which is central to current and future science and technology.

Physics is used to tackle problems as diverse as the development of new energy sources, safer medical diagnostics, high-temperature superconductors and ever smaller and faster devices for electronics and telecommunications.

As a physics student, you will embark on a dynamic and exciting course of study that combines intellectual fascination with practical application to a wide range of human endeavours, including biological sciences, engineering, earth sciences, philosophy and medicine.

The attributes needed by a good physicist include spatial and conceptual vision, mathematical fluency, curiosity, imagination and capacity for hard work.

Admission to the BSc Physics course is via the Physics and Astrophysics (CK408) entry stream. The Year 1 curriculum provides a broad foundation in physics and mathematical subjects, allowing students to pursue several possible degree courses.

Year 1 Modules:

Option 1:

Core:

PY1052 Introductory Physics I (10 credits); 

PY1053 Introductory Physics II (10 credits); 

MA1058 Introduction to Linear Algebra (5 credits);

MA1059 Calculus (5 credits);

MA1060 Introduction to Analaysis (5 credits);

AM1052 Introduction to Mechanics (5 credits);

AM1053 Introduction to Mathematical Modelling (5 credits)

Electives:

AM1054 Mathematical Software (5 credits);

CM1006 Introduction to Chemistry for Physicists and Mathematicians (10 credits);

CM1007 Introduction to Chemistry for Physicists (15 credits);

CS1061 Programming in C (5 credits);

CS1065 Computer Applications with Visual Basic (5 credits);

CS1068 Introductory Programming in Python (5 credits);

MA1057 Introduction to Abstract Algebra (5 credits);

PY1054 Special Topics in Physics (5 credits);

ST1051 Introduction to Probability and Statistics (5 credits)

Option 2:

Core:

PY1052 Introductory Physics (10 credits);

PY1053 Introductory Physics II (10 credits);

MA1058 Introduction to Linear Algebra (5 credits);

MA1059 Calculus (5 credits);

MA1060 Introduction to Analysis (5 credits);

CM1007 Introduction to Chemistry for Physicists (15 credits)

Electives:

BL1002 Cells, Biomolecules, Genetics and Evolution (5 credits);

BL1003 Introduction to Bological Chemistry and Microbiology (5 credits);

BL1004 Physiology and Structure of Plants and Animals (5 credits);

BL1005 Introduction to Ecology (5 credits)

Years 2 Modules:

Core:

Astrphysics and Special Relativity; C/C++ Programming with Applications; Classical Mechanics; Computational Physics; Electrostatistics and Magnetostatics; Experimental Physics; Experimental Methods; Fourier Methods; Multivariable Calculus; Quantum Physics; Thermodynamics and Statistical Physics

Electives:

Ordinary Differential Equations; Linear Algebra; Mathematical Modelling

Year 3 Modules:

Core:

Computer Modelling and Numerical Techniques; Condensed Matter Physics; Electromagnetism; Experimental Physics; Experimental Methods II; Nuclear and Particle Physics; Optics; Quantum Mechanics; Statistical Thermodynamics; Vector and Tensor Methods

Electives:

Mathematical Experimentation & Chaos; Fluid Mechanics; Optimisation and the Calculus of Variations; Computational Techniques; Observational Astrophysics

Year 4 Modules:

Core:

Research Project; Experimental Physics

Electives:

Observational Astrophysics; Advanced Mechanics; Advanced Quantum Mechanics; Advanced Electromagnetism; Advanced Condensed Matter Physics; Atomic and Molecular Physics; Quantum Field Theory; Plasma Physics; Lasers and Photonics; Advanced Computational Physics; Stars and the Intersellar Medium; Galactic and Extragalactic; Experimental Physics; Physics and Semiconductor Devices

See the College Calendar for more detailed information on the programme and the Book of Modules for a more detailed description of programme modules.

Leaving Certificate entry requirements: H5 in two subjects and O6 in four other subjects in the Leaving Certificate from Irish, English, Mathematics, one Laboratory Science subject (Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Physics with Chemistry (joint) or Agricultural Science) and two other subjects recognised for entry purposes. A H4 must be obtained in a Laboratory Science subject, or Mathematics or Applied Mathematics.

Mature students: Applicants should apply directly to the CAO and are assessed on the basis of academic and/or professional background in a science-related discipline, evidenced by exam results and their personal statement.  Approximately five places available for mature students on this course.

International Students should visit the International Education website.

FETAC Requirements.

EU applicants: Application to Year 1 of the degree programme is made directly through the Central Applications Office (CAO). Applicants should apply online at www.cao.ie. The normal closing date for receipt of completed applications is 1st February of the year of entry.

Non-EU Applicants

Mature Applicants:  Application is made through the CAO (www.cao.ie) and the closing date for receipt of completed application is 1st February of the year of proposed entry.

Expected lecture hours: You will attend 15-20 lectures and tutorials per week. These are typically held in the mornings.

Expected lab/practical hours: You will attend two or more practicals per week. These are typically held in the afternoons. In Year 4, in addition to practicals, you will carry out a 12-week final-year research project.

Written exams will take place before Christmas and in May.  Not all modules will have formal examinations.  Many modules use other types of assessment including assignments and in-class tests, online exercises, end-of-semester examinations, and performance in laboratory practicals as well as seminars. Presentations and written reports for your research project, and for some modules, form a significant portion of the overall assessment.

This course is taught by academic staff from the Department of Physics, with additional teaching by academics in the School of Mathematics, Applied Mathematics and Statistics, UCC. Some specialised topics are also covered by researchers based at the Tyndall National Institute, UCC.