Qualification : BACHELOR OF SCIENCE DEGREE
Award Type and NFQ level : UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE (8)
CAO/PAC code : MH204
CAO Points : 383
Closing Date : 01 July 2025
Degree Overview
>This degree will appeal to students who are passionate about understanding astrophysical phenomena. 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.
>Study the latest telescopes, satellites, detector technology and data analysis techniques used to make the exquisitely sensitive observations needed in modern astrophysics. Facilities include state-of-the-art laboratories, an observatory with a computerised Meade telescope, an atmospheric physics facility, and radio and cosmic ray telescopes.
>Students receive an excellent grounding in all the core areas of Experimental Physics, opening up all the career opportunities available to physicists. 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.
>Potential to transfer from MH201 into this degree. Places are limited and are based on results.
Duration: 4 years
1st 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.)
2nd year
- Physics with Astrophysics
- Continue with 2 of your 1st year subjects - 1 full subject, 10 credits in the 2nd
- Optional 10 credit Elective or Critical Skills
3rd year
- Physics with Astrophysics
- Continue with 1 of your 2nd year subjects
4th year
- Students take Physics with Astrophysics only
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| 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
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 required written exercise/interview which may form part of your application assessment please submit supporting documentation by 15 March 2025 to the Access Office.
Unfortunately we are unable to consider applications for alternative examination accommodation after this deadline.
01 February 2025
Additional Information
Leaving Certificate Applicants
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. MH204 Round 1 Points 2024: 383
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.
The Maynooth Education
Click here for details about optional Critical Skills courses, Electives and degree pathways.
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