BA Physics and Astrophysics: Physical Sciences

at Trinity College Dublin The University of Dublin

In the first two years you study physics and mathematics and one other subject. The Physics course includes topics in astrophysics, statistics, mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity, acoustics and optics, nuclear physics and quantum physics. The mathematics course includes topics in calculus, linear algebra, Fourier analysis and mechanics. You spend three hours per week in experimental or computational laboratories. You will learn computer coding skills through the Python programming language.

In the third year you take modules in physics and astrophysics and spend one day per week working in the computer laboratory (first semester) or in the experimental laboratory (second semester). You also receive training in communication and presentation skills. In the fourth year you carry out an experimental or computational Capstone research project during the first nine weeks of the first semester and then take lecture modules in Physics and Astrophysics which cover core Physics and Astrophysics at a more advanced level. In the fourth year you carry out a Capstone research project either in Trinity or in a research laboratory abroad, mainly in Europe, Canada or the USA. This will allow you to develop your practical skills in a research environment, while learning about different countries and cultures.

Third year modules
Quantum Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Condensed Matter Physics, Atomic Physics, Stellar and Galactic Structure,  Computer Simulation,Statistical Thermodynamics and Astrophysical Spectroscopy, Experimental Techniques for Astrophysics, Semiconductor Physics and Devices.

Fourth year modules
Planetary and Space Science, Cosmology, Computer Simulation, Quantum Physics, High Energy Physics, Nuclear Structure, Electromagnetic Interactions, Modern Optics and Practical in Physics and Astrophysics.

The fees for BA Physics and Astrophysics: Physical Sciences may vary from €10,000 to €25,000 annually for tuition fees. The fee's prices may get higher for International Students.

You may undertake your fourth year Capstone project at a research institute or university in the EU or further afield, provided you attain a sufficient standard in the third-year examinations. In recent years, students have worked at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in the United States and at the European Space Agency in Madrid.