Qualification : BACHELOR OF SCIENCE DEGREE
Award Type and NFQ level : UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE (8)
CAO/PAC code : MH204
CAO Points : 423
Closing Date : 01 July 2023
If you are passionate about understanding astrophysical phenomena, this degree has been designed for you. It is based on the Single Major degree in Experimental Physics but with an increased emphasis on studying the physical principles needed to understand astronomical objects such as planets, stars and galaxies, as well as the dynamics of the Universe as a whole.
- You will study the latest telescopes, satellites, detector technology and data analysis techniques used to make the exquisitely sensitive observations needed in modern astrophysics.
- In addition you will receive an excellent grounding in all the core areas of Experimental Physics, opening up all the career opportunities available to physicists.
- Maynooth University has a long tradition of excellence in Experimental Physics. The inventor of the induction coil, Nicholas Callan, was Professor of Experimental Physics here from 1826 to 1864.
- Facilities include state-of-the-art laboratories, an observatory with a computerised Meade telescope, an atmospheric physics facility, and radio and cosmic ray telescopes.
- Field trips and scientific visits are organised to other facilities such as LObservatoire dHaute Provence (France), the European Space Agency (the Netherlands), Jodrell Bank (UK), St. Lukes Hospital and Armagh Observatory.
- Students attaining 60% in Experimental Physics and 60% in either Mathematics or Mathematical Physics in 1st year MH201 BSc Science may apply to transfer into MH204 in 2nd year. Places are limited and are based on results.
COURSE STRUCTURE
FIRST YEAR
- Physics with Astrophysics
- Mathematics
- Choose 2 other Science subjects (Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Engineering Science, Mathematical Physics - please note that not all combinations of 2 subjects are possible due to timetable restrictions. Engineering Science cannot be taken with Biology. Students taking Engineering Science must also take Computer Science. Students may take Computer Science and not take Engineering Science.)
SECOND YEAR
- Physics with Astrophysics
- Continue with 2 of your 1st year subjects
- Optional 10 credit Electives OR Critical Skills
THIRD YEAR
- Physics with Astrophysics
- Continue with 1 of your 2nd year subjects
FOURTH YEAR
- Students take Physics with Astrophysics only
Academic
| Subject | Required | Ordinary Level Grade | Higher Level Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Irish | Yes | O6 | H7 |
| English | Yes | O6 | H7 |
| Language | No | N/A | N/A |
| Math | Yes | O4 | H7 |
| Science | Yes | O6 | H7 |
International & EU/EFTA Entry Requirements
Mature Students
Mature applicants are assessed separately to school-leavers. Mature applicants are 23 years or older by 1st January in the year of entry to the University. For part-time/flexible degrees the mature age is 21.
Mature applicants who have a disability
If you have a disability or specific learning difficulty (e.g. dyslexia), and require examination support for any written tests that may be required, please submit supporting documentation by 15 March 2023 to the Access Office.
Unfortunately we are unable to consider applications for alternative examination accommodation after this deadline.
01 February 2023
Additional Information
Leaving Certificate applicants are required to present (as a minimum): 2H5 & 4O6/H7 and O6/H7 in Irish, English, Science subject (i.e. Agricultural Science, Applied Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Physics, or Physics with Chemistry) & O4/H7 Mathematics
THE MAYNOOTH EDUCATION
Click here for details about optional Critical Skills courses, Electives and degree pathways.
HEAR & DARE
DARE: The Disability Access Route to Education is a third level alternative admissions scheme for school-leavers whose disabilities have had a negative impact on their second level education.
HEAR: The Higher Education Access Route is a third level admissions scheme for school leavers from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Contact the Access Office for more information about these access routes.
APPLY TO THE CAO
WWW.CAO.IE
The application process depends on the type of applicant you are. Click here for all information about how to apply.
Categories of applicant:
- School-leavers (Leaving Certificate students)
- Mature students (23 years or older by 1st January in the year of entry to the University/part-time degrees the mature age is 21)
- EU/EFTA/UK students
- International students (outside the EU)
- QQI (Further Education) students
- Transferring students
- Deferring students