Physics General Entry

If you are interested in how the world works and how science seeks to answer the big questions, if you have a logical mind and competency in mathematics then Physics General Entry may be the route for you.
Physics is the most fundamental science. It explains the mysteries of the universe and has fueled many of the scientific and technological developments that we take for granted. Physicists also pioneered modern technologies as diverse as the Internet, nuclear power and MRI scanners. Today physicists continue to generate new knowledge about our world and lead innovation in yet-to-be exploited realms such as quantum information and communications technology, nano-systems design, ultrafast molecular switching and terahertz medical imaging.
Upon successful completion of Year 1, Physics General Entry, you will progress into Year 2, of one of the following degree courses, and complete the remaining 3 years of your studies:
Applied Physics emphasises the real-world applications of the subject as well as providing a foundation in the basics of physics.
This course is designed to appeal to everyone with an interest in physics, astronomy, astrophysics, space science and technology.
BSc in Physics with Biomedical Sciences
If you intend to pursue a career in physics and technology related to medical research, clinical services or biomedical industries then this course is designed for you.
BSc in Physics with Data Analytics (run by the DCU School of Physical Sciences in collaboration with the DCU School of Computing.)
In this groundbreaking degree programme, you will combine the skills and knowledge of a Physics degree with the advanced data analytics tools you need to solve real-world problems in new and exciting ways.
Physics General Entry provides you with the opportunity in Year 1 to gain a solid physics foundation and invaluable laboratory exposure, before choosing the degree specialism you want to pursue.
Year 1 focus on classical and modern physics, combined with mathematics and computing with an emphasis on practical laboratory and IT skills, which are valuable skills for your future. For Years 2, 3 and 4, you will take the modules of your chosen degree course.
For more information and an overview of our courses here in the School of Physical Sciences visit our undergraduate course presentation pages.
View the current course structure
For more information on every aspect of studying at DCU visit our CAO Hub where you can listen to taster lectures, hear from our student ambassadors and find answers to frequently asked questions.
We have a unique and vibrant culture on our modern campus close to Dublin city centre. We provide state-of-the-art study facilities for all our courses and everything else you need for a healthy, fun and active student life.
Exceptional Facilities
DCU students enjoy exceptional teaching and learning facilities across our 3 academic campuses. These include modern learning theatres, research centres, television and sound studios, classrooms, computer suites and advanced laboratories in the areas of languages, engineering, physics, chemistry and biotechnology, as well as a sports performance centre and a virtual hospital ward.
A Vibrant, Dynamic Social Environment
Student facilities include a superb sports complex with a 25 metre pool, two libraries and The Helix, our renowned performing arts centre. In 2016 we announced plans to invest over €230m in developing new, world-class facilities across our three academic campuses. Already building has begun on an exciting, new €14m Student Centre that will be home to the more than one hundred and twenty student clubs and societies. This commitment to student facilities means that our world-class learning experiences are complemented by a vibrant, dynamic social environment.
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 me, and the kind guidance of the staff gave me the opportunity to develop skills which are now proving invaluable to me in my career as a Catastrophic Risk Analyst.
Sean McCabe, Applied Physics Graduate
Everything that I have learned throughout my degree has prepared me for a wide range of career opportunities. The investment and encouragement of the academic and technical staff has inspired me to seek further education and develop a career in research. I am now undertaking a PhD in Space Engineering. Each day, I find that the knowledge and skills that I have gained from my time at DCU have proven invaluable to my work.
Rachel Moloney, Physics with Astronomy Graduate
Physics General Entry provides you with the platform to progress to a degree in your choosen area of specialism, with potential to pursue careers in areas as varied as:
Meteorology, Astronomy and Astrophysics, Design Management, Data Science, Research and Development, Education, Data Analytics, Information Technology, Healthcare and Aeronautics. You will also be ideally positioned to pursue further study.
Further useful materials and resources on the many interesting and diverse career opportunities available to physics graduates are available on the Institute of Physics website.
Requirements
In addition to the general entry requirements for admission to the university the following entry requirements apply:
Minimum of 03 or H6 in Mathematics and minimum of 03 or H5 in one of Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Physics with Chemistry, Applied Mathematics or Computer Science
In addition to the general entry requirements for admission to the university the following entry requirements apply:
GCE A Level D or GCE AS Level C or GCSE B Mathematics and GCE A Level D or GCE AS Level C or GCSE B in one of Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Physics with Chemisty or Applied Mathematics
For details of QQI requirements and relevant codes please click here. Simply enter the DC code for the programme you are interested in or if you are not sure of the code enter DC in the Select by Institution option, then click on Go.
Please contact Faculty for further information.
International candidates are expected to have educational qualifications of a standard equivalent to those outlined above. In addition, where such candidates are non-native speakers of the English language they must satisfy the university of their competency in the English language. For further information on international applications click here