Qualification : BACHELOR OF SCIENCE DEGREE
Award Type and NFQ level : UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE (8)
CAO/PAC code : MH204
CAO Points : 420
Closing Date : 01 July 2020
- 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.
Why choose this degree?
- 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.
1st year
- Physics with Astrophysics
- Mathematics
- Choose 2 other Science subjects (Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Engineering Science, Mathematical Physics) or Critical Skills and 1 Science subject
2nd year
- Physics with Astrophysics
- Continue with 2 of your 1st year subjects
- Optional 10 credit Electives
3rd year
- Physics with Astrophysics
- Continue with 1 of your 2nd year subjects
4th year
- Students take Physics with Astrophysics only
Course Duration: 4 years
This table displays the requirements for Leaving Certificate applicants.
| 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
A mature student is 23 years or older by 1st January in the year of entry to the University. For part-time degrees the mature age is 21. Admission is based on your application. Science test and/or interview.
O4/H7 Leaving Certificate Mathematics or equivalent is required.
Apply to the CAO by February 1st 2020. Late applications from mature students may be accepted after this date - consult the Undergraduate Studies website for updates. Application may not be made to the CAO after May 1st 2020.
Mature students must complete the CAO section for mature applicants fully, indicating clearly past or current studies, and outlining educational goals and objectives. Applicants are assessed on the basis of the information provided on their CAO application form. All questions should be answered in full.
Mature student applicants who have a disability
If you have a disability or specific learning difficulty (e.g. dyslexia), and require examination support for the written tests, please submit supporting documentation by 15 March 2020 to the Access Office. Unfortunately we are unable to consider applications for alternative examination accommodation after this deadline.
01 February 2020
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 1st year optional Critical Skills courses and 2nd year optional Electives and degree pathways.
HEAR and 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.
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