Understanding the Course:

Applying Physics to realise tomorrow's discoveries.

Physics is the most fundamental of all the sciences and has fuelled most of the scientific and technological developments that we take for granted today. Apart from basic discoveries, such as electromagnetism and nuclear energy, physics is also the science behind modern technologies such as the Internet and mobile phones. Life-changing developments such as the silicon integrated circuit and MRI scanners were also pioneered by physicists. Today physicists continue to lead discovery, invention and innovation in revolutionary but yet-to-be-exploited physics such as quantum information and communications technology (q-ICT), nanosystems design, ultrafast molecular switching, terahertz medical imaging.

Applied Physics emphasises the real-world applications of the subject as well as providing a foundation in the basics of physics.

About You:

If you are curious about how the world works and have a reasonable competency in mathematics, Applied Physics may well be the degree for you!

In addition to the general entry requirements for admission to the University (see How to Apply section), the following requirements apply: OC3 or HD3 Maths PLUS OC3 or HD3 in one of physics, chemistry, biology, physics with chemistry, agricultural science.

Course Structure:

This four-year degree combines lectures, tutorials and stimulating laboratory work with fundamental physics concepts and exciting, real-life technological skills and applications. This will develop your analytical and problem-solving skills.

The basic foundations of physics will be laid in Years One and Two, while in Years Three and Four you can choose to study specialist topics such as instrumentation, nanotechnology, semiconductor materials and biophotonics.

In Year Three, INTRA is an important opportunity to work in industry on an eight- month placement. For those of you who may wish to pursue a research career, you will have the option of spending your placement working in one of the research groups in the school where you will be assisting with cutting edge research projects. Throughout your course you will be working in a custom-designed physics building equipped with state-of-the art undergraduate and research laboratories.

Your Year Four project is a real highlight which you conduct in our world-class research laboratories and where you will experience the excitement and personal achievement associated with scientific research.

During the course you will be encouraged to apply for scientific internship schemes including visiting fellowships in organisations such as the European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN) and the European Space Agency (ESA).

View the subjects currently taught on this course (2012 - 2013)

• Accessible and enthusiastic academic staff.
• Emphasis on hands-on laboratory and project work.
• Personal attention including a unique Year One extended orientation and small group tutorials.
• Year Three work placement, research experience and scholarship opportunities to spend a term in a US university.
• Graduates are equipped for careers in the rapidly changing high technology sector or for further studies in physics and engineering.

International Students
Non-native English speakers who do not meet the English language requirements may be eligible to apply to the International Foundation Certificate (IFC) course. This course will help you to achieve the English language requirements necessary for entry to this course. It will also help you to adjust to the culture of Irish university learning. See www.dcu.ie/IFC for full details of the IFC course.

Career Prospects:

Applied Physics is a gateway to a wide range of careers. Armed with highly marketable skills, you will be a powerful and versatile addition to any workforce. Examples of careers pursued by previous graduates include working in the areas of engineering, communications, semiconductors, photonics/optoelectronics and research and development. You could find yourself either in a design or management role, or you could push the boundaries of fundamental science in a research laboratory and be a future Nobel Prize winner!

There are over 600 Applied Physics graduates working in these and other sectors such as finance and education. A number have founded successful hi-tech companies.

This course is also suitable for those who ultimately wish to pursue a career in teaching as it is recognised by the Teaching Council to teach physics (see www.teachingcouncil.ie for further details).

What Our Graduates Say
"DCU Applied Physics has given me an excellent physics foundation coupled with problem solving skills that enabled me to pursue a career in the rapidly developing medical physics field."
Dermot Gorman, Medical Physics and Bioengineering, St. James's Hospital, Dublin.

"Studying physics in DCU was a fantastic stepping stone into an exciting future. The course exposed me to concepts, new and classical, that both challenged and stimulated and the kind guidance of the staff gave me the opportunity to develop analytical skills which are now proving invaluable to me in my career as a Catastrophic Risk Analyst."
Sean McCabe, Renaissance Reinsurance, Dublin

"My degree in Applied Physics has been an invaluable foundation for my career, supported by a Faculty that encouraged learning, development and enjoyment of university life. This course taught me to think, to question and to apply theory to practice - all invaluable life skills."
Grainne Sheerin, Senior Analyst, Google Ireland.

Entry Requirements:

How to Apply and Closing Dates

EU School Leavers/FETAC Level 5

Apply through the Central Applications Office (CAO) by 1st February or 1st May

EU Mature Applicants
Apply through the CAO by 1st February

EU Transfer Applicants
Apply directly to DCU by the 1st July

All Non-EU Candidates
Candidates should apply directly to DCU. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis up to the 1st July. All non-EU candidates are advised to apply early as places are limited.

Make an Application
Candidates required to apply through the CAO can apply online at www.cao.ie
Candidates required to apply directly to DCU can download, print and complete a direct application form by clicking here

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