Program Overview

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MSc in Astrophysics & Relativity

Overview

The MSc in Astrophysics & Relativity is a postgraduate program offered by Dublin City University. The program is designed for students who hold an undergraduate degree in physics, astrophysics, theoretical physics, mathematical sciences, applied mathematics, or a closely related field. The program aims to provide students with a deep understanding of astrophysics and general relativity, as well as valuable skills in computing and data analysis.

Careers & Further Options

Graduates of the program will be ideally positioned to undertake postgraduate research in Astrophysics and Relativity in DCU and elsewhere. They will also have excellent career opportunities in a wide range of employment sectors, including information and communications technology, data analytics, engineering, banking, finance, and business consultancy.

Entry Requirements

• For admission to the MSc in Astrophysics and Relativity, candidates must have completed a recognized primary degree (NFQ Level 8) in Physics, Astrophysics, Theoretical Physics, Mathematical Sciences, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related field (e.g., Engineering), with a minimum of a Second-Class Honours, Grade 1 Award (H2.1).
• Transfer from related Level 9 programs in DCU or other third-level institutions is subject to having fulfilled educational qualifications of a standard equivalent to those outlined above.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) applicants are required to submit a cover letter along with their application under the Transcripts section of the portal, affirming their intent to apply for RPL.
• Candidates who are non-native speakers of English must satisfy the University of their competency in the English language.

Programme Structure

The course involves three main strands: Astrophysics, General Relativity, and Computational Science and Data Analysis. All topics are covered in the first semester of the course, laying the foundations for the advanced study of these topics in the second semester.

• Astrophysics: Students will study Plasma Astrophysics, High Energy Astrophysics, Galaxies, and will supplement this knowledge with the study of observational techniques.
• General Relativity: Students will study both astrophysical and fundamental physical properties of Black Holes, including gravitational collapse, the laws of black hole mechanics, and Hawking radiation.
• Computational Science and Data Analysis: All students will also take modules in Computational Physics and in Data Analysis, including Machine Learning.

Fees and Funding

• Full-time EU students: €6,700 per annum
• Full-time non-EU students: €17,000 per annum
• Part-time EU students: €3,300 per annum
• Part-time non-EU students: €8,100 per annum

How To Apply

• All applicants must apply through DCU's Student Application Portal.
• Provide Academic Transcripts for each and every year of study with English translation if applicable.
• If applicable, provide evidence of competence in the English language as per DCU entry requirements.

Life On Campus

• DCU has three academic campuses: Glasnevin, St. Patrick's, and All Hallows.
• The university offers a range of facilities, including libraries, sports centers, and accommodation.
• Students can expect a unique campus experience, with opportunities to engage in clubs and societies, sports, and cultural activities.

FAQs

• Is DCU all one campus?
  • No, DCU is a multi-campus university with three academic campuses: Glasnevin, St. Patrick's, and All Hallows.
• If I'm studying on the St Patrick's campus, can I use the library and sports center on the Glasnevin campus?
  • Yes, all facilities such as sports and accommodation are open for all DCU students to avail of.
• Are there libraries in DCU and if they have wifi and work stations?
  • Yes, we have a brand new state-of-the-art four-floor library on our St. Patrick's Campus which complements the existing library on the Glasnevin campus. There is free wifi, work stations as well as desktop computers.