The UCD Theoretical Physics degree puts emphasis on the mathematical description of physical phenomena, providing a unified picture of the fundamental laws of nature. It’s ideally suited to students who enjoy studying Mathematics and Physics for their Leaving Certificate. Insights from Theoretical Physics are driving our understanding of nature at all scales, from the origin of large-scale structures in the universe to the Planck scale, where our current understanding of space and time breaks down. The degree comprehensively covers Theoretical Physics, while developing your knowledge and expertise in problem solving, using analytical and computational techniques, which have wide application in, for example, biophysics, social physics, quantum physics, relativity and nanoscience.

This is a sample pathway for a degree in Theoretical Physics. Topics include electromagnetism, mathematical modelling, mechanics and special relativity, vector calculus, statistical physics, fluid mechanics, computational science, quantum mechanics and nuclear physics, general relativity, and statistical physics.

First Year

• Physics
• Mathematics
• Optional Science modules
• Elective module

Second Year

• Theoretical Physics
• + 1 Other Science Subject
• Elective modules

Third Year

• Theoretical Physics (includes Quantum Physics and Electrodynamics, Applied & Computational Mathematics and Mathematics)
• Elective modules
• UCD Physics offers research experience to undergraduates

Fourth Year

• Theoretical Physics (theoretical physics project, core physics, and options including General Relativity, Quantum Field Theory, Applied & Computational Mathematics, Statistical and Particle Physics).

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

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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

Theoretical Physics graduates can choose to develop careers in:

• Academic and government research institutions
• Energy technologies
• Information and communication technology
• Advanced materials [e.g. semiconductor industry]
• Management consulting, stock market and financial risk analysis
• Climate change and environmental impact analysis
• Second and third-level education

Our Theoretical Physics graduates are well prepared for further research and have successfully completed PhDs in MIT, Caltech, Harvard, Princeton and Cambridge, as well as in UCD.

• A-Level/GCSE
• Other EU Applicants
• Non-EU Applicants
• QQI FET Entry Routes
  
• Level 6/7 Progression Routes
• Mature Entry Route
• HEAR
• DARE

Associate Professor Vladimir Lobaskin, UCD School of Physics
Professor Adrian Ottewill, UCD School of Mathematics and Statistics
Belfield, Dublin 4.

Email: vladimir.lobaskin@ucd.ie or adrian.ottewill@ucd.ie