Prospective Students
Trinity College Dublin offers four different degree courses in which Physics is a main component:
- Science, Physics
- Science, Physics and Astrophysics
- Theoretical Physics
- Nanoscience, Physics and Chemistry of Advanced Materials
Physics
Physics explores our
universe in all its
diversity – from
Particles to planets,
from crystals to
chaos, from quanta
to quasars and from superconductors to superstrings. Its applications are to be found in modern communications, lasers, computing, and many other technologies of vital importance. A Physics degree covers a broad syllabus which includes hands-on practical work while allowing you develop flexible skills in theory, instrumentation and data analysis. The course covers core subjects, including mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, modern optic sand condensed matter physics, and more specialised topics such as nanoscience, high energy physics, astrophysics and superconductivity. In the final year students gain real-life experience in a reasearch laboratory while completing a three-month research project in Trinity or abroad.
Is it for me? Yes, if you like experiments and working in the lab! Yes, if you enjoy physics, technology and maths and working things out for yourself and solving problems!
How do I get in? Apply for TR071 Science and choose Physics (20 credits), Maths (20 credits) and 20 credits in other science subject(s) in 1st year and 2nd year. Choose Physics in 3rd and 4th year.
Entry Requirements: Entry requirements and other information can be found in the TCD Prospectus: http://www.tcd.ie/Admissions/
Physics and Astrophysics
Since the dawn of human civilisation humans have gazed in wonder at the night sky. Astrophysics – the exploration of our solar system and the universe beyond - is still a major part of human endeavour in science. Physics and Astrophysics at Trinity College will give you an introduction to this fascinating subject.
The Physics and Astrophysics course includes a good background in core Physics subjects as well as specialised Astrophysics courses in topics such as astronomical instrumentation, spectroscopy, the solar system, stellar evolution, supernovae, galaxies, interstellar matter, black holes and cosmology. In the third year laboratory there are experiments using optical and radio telescopes. In the final year students gain real-life experience in a reasearch laboratory while completing a three-month research project in Trinity or abroad.
Is it for me? Yes, if you are interested in how the universe began and evolved. Yes, if you enjoy asking questions and working out the answer!
How do I get in? Apply for TR071 Science and choose Physics (20 credits), Maths (20 credits) and 20 credits in other science subject(s) in 1st and 2nd year. Choose Physics and Astrophysics in 3rd and 4th year.
Entry Requirements: Entry requirements and other information can be found in the TCD Prospectus: http://www.tcd.ie/Admissions/
Theoretical Physics
Theoretical physics explores the natural world at its most fundamental level, using mathematical theories guided by experimental investigation. It can be the foundation for an academic career in mathematics or physics or the basis for a career in industry, medicine, law, finance or computing. Theoretical Physics graduates from Trinity are in high demand for their technical skills and versatility.
Theoretical Physics is taught jointly by the Schools of Physics and Mathematics and is an excellent course for those with good mathematical ability, who wish to acquire a deeper physical and mathematical knowledge of the world. In the first two years the course comprises 40 credits in Mathematics and 20 credits in Physics and includes both computational and experimental laboratory classes. In the third and fourth years students take 30 credits in Physics and 30 credits in specialist mathematics and Theoretical Physics modules in the School of Mathematics. Students also carry out a short computational Physics project in their final year.
Is it for me? Yes, if you are strong in both Maths and Physics. Yes, if you enjoy solving problems – especially mathematical problems.
How do I get in? Apply for TR035 Theoretical Physics.
Entry Requirements: Entry requirements and other information can be found in the TCD Prospectus: http://www.tcd.ie/Admissions/
Nanoscience, Physics & Chemistry of Advanced Materials
Technological innovation progresses hand-in-hand with the development of new materials. Modern materials can be tailor-made for specific applications, and include superconductors, polymers and materials for use in lasers and optoelectronics. Advanced materials can be found in applications ranging from computers and electronics to biomedical devices and aeroplanes.
In this course, run jointly by the Schools of Physics and Chemistry, students will gain a deep and lasting understanding of the science of advanced materials that underpins the ‘nano’ revolution. This degree programme will equip students to work across a diverse range of industries that employ nanotechnology. In the first two years students take 20 credits in each of Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics including some specialised classes. In the third and fourth years the course includes modules in nanoscience and advanced materials. Final year students carry out a three month research project, in an industrial or research laboratory, often outside Ireland.
Is it for me? Yes, if you are strong in both Chemistry and Physics. Yes, if you enjoy laboratory work and want to work in high tech industry or research after university.
How do I get in? Apply for TR076 Nanoscience, Physics & Chemistry of Advanced Materials.
Entry Requirements: Entry requirements and other information can be found in the TCD Prospectus: http://www.tcd.ie/Admissions/
See also the Nanoscience, Physics & Chemistry of Advanced Materials webpages for more information on the course.
Professional Qualification
All four of our Physics degree courses are recognised by the Institute of Physics, which is the professional body for physicists in Ireland and the UK, as qualifications for the professional title 'Chartered Physicist' (CPhys).