Astrophysics

    Astrophysics is concerned with the physics of astronomical objects and processes, from planets and stars to galaxies, the interstellar medium, and the universe as a whole. As a science astronomy has always been regarded as a fundamental area of human knowledge, which is evidenced by its high profile in the media and general level of human interest.

    At Maynooth University research in astrophysics is done in the Department of Experimental Physics, which has a distinguished history in astronomy, astrophysics, and space-science research. Researchers in the department have participated in international projects such as Giotto, Rosetta, and Mars Express, and current satellite projects include the Herschel Space Observatory and the Planck Surveyer.

    Watch a short video about the observing trip of our 4th-year Astrophysics students to the Observatoire de Haute-Provence in France
     

    MH204: Physics with Astrophysics

    Interested in astronomy, cosmology, celestial systems, and astrophysics? At Maynooth we have developed a special 4-year honours course which combines the study of physics and astronomy. The study of the stars and galaxies has enthralled people for centuries, and our students are no exception. Since the course began in September 2001 there has been great interest, and students who have taken the course have excelled in their studies.

    You can find out more about this course in the menu on the left.

    The Physics with Astrophysics course provides an attractive possibility for those who are interested in astronomy and astrophysics, but who also want the option of pusuing a career in physics. Students taking this course will receive a thorough grounding in all the core areas of physics, and will also be given a substantial series of courses on topics in astronomy and astrophysics.

    The requirement for entry into the course is a pass in a science subject, Mathematics, Irish, English, and a third language, with an overall mark of 425 (CAO 2018 entry).

    The BSc in Experimental Physics and the BSc in Physics with Astrophysics are accredited by the Institute of Physics, the professional body in Ireland and the UK.