BA Physical Sciences

First and Second years

In first and second year, you will study foundation topics in physics including classical and quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, special relativity, and thermodynamics through our lectures, tutorials and computational and experimental laboratory classes. This will be hand-in-hand with the study of mathematics and your choice of open modules from other science subjects. These strong foundations in physics and mathematics will allow you to study more advanced topics in the physics, astrophysics and nanoscience degree programmes in later years.

Third and Fourth years

In third and fourth year, all students study central topics such as quantum mechanics, statistical physics and condensed matter physics. In addition each student must opt to specialise in one of our three moderatorships:

Physics: Advanced topics include magnetism, semiconductor devices, materials and electronic structure, superconductivity, nanoscience, modern and non-linear optics, nuclear physics and structure, high energy physics and optional topics such as energy science, polymers, soft matter , and theoretical methods.

Physics and Astrophysics: Specialised astrophysics topics include stellar and galactic structures, planetary and space science and cosmology together with nuclear physics and structure, and high energy physics.

Nanoscience: Advanced topics include nanoscience, condensed matter physics, specialist courses in thin films, polymers, soft matter, solid state chemistry, electrochemistry, photochemistry, all emphasizing nanomaterials.

All have tailored practical courses developing appropriate laboratory, experimental, computational and analysis skills as well as participation in research-level final year Capstone projects carried out in a research laboratory in Trinity or in another university, research institute or astrophysical observatory (e.g. US, UK, France, Germany, China and Australia).

Leaving Certificate
 

• H6 or O4 mathematics

• H4 In two of: physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, physics/chemistry, geography, Computer Science, applied mathematics or agricultural science

GCSE:  Grade B/6 Mathematics

Advanced GCE (A-Level)

Grade C at A Level in two of physics, chemistry, biology, physics/chemistry, geology, geography, applied mathematics, agricultural science, computer science

International Baccalaureate: 
 

• SL Grade 5 Mathematics

• HL Grade 5 in two of physics, chemistry, biology, physics/chemistry, geology, geography, applied mathematics, agricultural science, computer science

Combinations of subjects not permitted: 
 

• physics/chemistry with physics or chemistry

• agricultural science with biology

• applied mathematics with mathematics

The fees for BA Physical Sciences may vary from €20,000 to €30,000 annually for tuition fees. The fee's prices may get higher for International Students.

Physical Sciences (TR063) at Trinity is a four year degree programme for students who like to solve problems. Whether it is studying galaxies, examining the potential of new lasers or investigating next generation nanomaterials, this degree pathway will prepare you for a lifelong career of solving problems in research, industry or business.