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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.
• Students attaining 60% in Experimental Physics and 60% in either Mathematics or Mathematical Physics in 2nd MH201 Science may apply to transfer into MH204 in 3rd year. Places are limited and are based on results.
• 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 L’Observatoire d’Haute Provence (France), the European Space Agency (the Netherlands), Jodrell Bank (UK), St. Luke’s Hospital and Armagh Observatory.
• Students attaining 60% in Experimental Physics and 60% in either Mathematics or Mathematical Physics in 2nd MH201 Science may apply to transfer into MH204 in 3rd 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).

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

Course Duration: 4 years

Career Options

Physicists and astrophysicists find employment in high-tech fields and in areas where analytical and problem-solving skills are valued. Graduates have progressed to roles at Met Éireann, St. Luke’s Hospital Dublin, the European Space Agency, NASA, Caltech, Intel, Hewlett Packard, and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

• Astrophysicists can find challenging and rewarding careers in astrophysics and also in fields such as medical physics, computational physics, forensic science, meteorology, environmental and atmospheric physics.
• Students who do sufficiently well are eligible to undertake research for an MSc or PhD degree under the supervision of one of the members of academic staff, who run active research programmes in these areas. This option is especially suitable for those wishing to pursue research careers, either in industry or academia.