Theoretical Physics
Theoretical physics works to understand why the world is as it is. It describes the laws of nature using conceptual and mathematical tools. It also explores new phenomena and can even explore what alternative universes would look like. Theoretical physics deals with the ideas and concepts of forces, motion, energy and matter, at scales ranging from the very small, studied for example in quantum and particle physics, to the very large, studied in gravitation and cosmology. It is fundamental to contemporary topics such as weather and climate change, the energy transition, space exploration and advances in computer systems, including quantum computing. It even has applications in quantitative finance.
If you liked the leaving certificate subject of applied mathematics, you will probably enjoy studying theoretical physics, but a background in applied mathematics is not needed for our courses.
Content
Study of theoretical physics at Maynooth University starts with an introduction to the classical mechanics of Isaac Newton and the special theory of relativity of Albert Einstein. It then continues through thermal and statistical physics, and electricity and magnetism, including Maxwell’s equations, to quantum mechanics, computational physics, and advanced topics, including the general theory of relativity and courses in physical cosmology, condensed matter theory, solid state physics, particle physics and quantum information processing.
Career opportunities
There are many and varied career opportunities for graduates with expertise in theoretical physics, due to their advanced problem solving skills. Many of our former students (over 40%), continue their career first of all in research, as postgraduate students in Master of Science or Doctor of Philosophy programmes. Others become teachers at schools, work for IT companies, or perform advanced computer or mathematical modelling in various industries. They work for example in nanotechnology, telecommunications, aerospace, bioscience, medical physics and neuroscience, as well as in finance.
MH206 Theoretical Physics and Mathematics
This is an accelerated three-year programme, and students graduate as BSc in Theoretical Physics and Mathematics.
We offer this programme in collaboration with the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at Maynooth University.
Course requirements include H2 in Mathematics.
Past CAO points: 510 (2020), 521 (2021), 510 (2022).