Physics with Astronomy and Space Science seeks to apply the fundamental laws of Physics to explain observations of the Universe, made using ground and space-based instrumentation. The degree is primarily a Physics degree with specific modules on the applications of Physics and will develop your skills in problem solving, data analysis, computation, and experimental techniques.

Physics with Astronomy & Space Science is one of the degree subjects available through the Physics stream in the common entry Science course.

Students study similar modules for all degree subjects in the Physics stream in first year and will study modules for a minimum of two degree subjects in second year. At the end of second year, students choose their degree major. This is a sample set of modules that a Physics with Astronomy & Space Science student could study each year in UCD.

First Year

• Scientific Enquiry
• Introduction to Applied & Computational Mathematics
• Calculus in the Mathematical and Physical Sciences
• Frontiers of Physics
• Foundations of Physics
• Astronomy & Space Science
• Fields, Waves and Light
• Optional Modules
• Elective Module

Second Year

• Exploring the Solar System
• Calculus of Several Variables
• Introductory Quantum Mechanics
• Vector Calculus
• Methods for Physicists
• Electronics & Devices
• + modules for 1 other Science Subject
• Elective Modules

Third Year

• Physics, Astronomy & Space Science Lab
• Classical Mechanics+Relativity
• Quantum Mechanics
• Electromagnetism
• Optics & Lasers
• Option Modules
• Elective Modules

Fourth Year

• Research Project
• Physics, Astronomy & Space Science Lab
• Astronomy Field Trip (Students participate in a week-long field trip where they gain hands-on experience at a professional observatory)
• Applied Quantum Mechanics
• High Energy Particle Physics
• Nuclear Physics
• Galaxies, Orvational Cosmology & the Interstellar Medium
• Option Modules

Timetables & Assessment

Each student will have their own timetable based on their individual module selection. This is a full time course and classes may include lectures, practicals and tutorials, depending on the subjects. Students will also be expected to study independently (autonomous student learning). Assessment varies with each module but may comprise continuous assessment of practicals, written exams and online learning activities.

For detailed information on subject content click here

You may be interested in the following Blog posts: Read about the Physics Society stargazing trip & Student field trip to Tenerife & Student Astronomy fieldtrip experience.

Students can apply to study for a trimester or year in third year in a number of universities worldwide including:

• University of California, Berkeley, USA
• University of California, Santa Cruz, USA
• San Jose State University, California, USA
• University of Melbourne, Australia

The UCD Physics with Astronomy & Space Science is an Institute of Physics accredited degree which positions graduates to go into the rapidly growing space sector. There are opportunities  for well qualified graduates to work with major space agencies, such as ESA and NASA, or with space companies. Graduates are also qualified to go into areas such as medical physics, meteorology, semiconductor technology, energy, ICT and finance.

Graduates may apply for MSc programmes such as Space Science & Technology. They may also pursue research through PhD programmes in Ireland and abroad in many fields of physics.

• Level 5/6 QQI-FET
  
• Open Learning Entry Route
• Mature Entry Route
• DARE Entry Route
  
• HEAR Entry Route
  
• University Access
  

Associate Professor John Quinn
UCD School of Physics
Belfield, Dublin 4

Email: askscience@ucd.ie