MSc THEORETICAL PHYSICS AND MATHEMATICS

Program Overview

The MSc Theoretical Physics and Mathematics program at Maynooth University combines advanced topics in theoretical physics and mathematics, emphasizing their commonalities and applications in diverse fields. It prepares students for further research through a supervised project and provides a strong foundation for PhD studies or careers in academia, industry, and finance. The program fosters independent research skills, collaboration, and interdisciplinary exploration, equipping graduates with expertise in cutting-edge theoretical concepts and methods.

Program Outline

Additionally, it covers areas in pure mathematics such as functional analysis, algebraic and differential topology, representation theory, and Riemannian and non-Riemannian geometry. The program emphasizes the commonalities between these diverse topics, highlighting how the same mathematical and numerical methods can be applied across different fields and the many intersections between them. It also introduces descriptions and methods from theoretical physics and mathematics that find application in fields like biological systems, finance, and computer science. The MSc program prepares students for further research by introducing them to the forefront of current research through a supervised project and may serve as an entry point to a research degree.

Outline:

Structure:

Students in this full-time program take 30 ECTS each semester, culminating in a 30-ECTS research project over the summer. The 60 ECTS of taught modules typically include at least 40 ECTS at 500- and 600-level. Both 500- and 600-level modules have at least 3 contact hours per week, including tutorials and problem classes.

Specific Courses:

The program offers a combination of reading modules, advanced final year undergraduate modules, and the following courses:

• General Relativity and Cosmology
• Quantum Theory I and II
• Classical Mechanics
• Mathematical Methods I and II
• Statistical Mechanics and Thermodynamics
• Quantum Field Theory
• Group Theory
• Analysis on Manifolds
• Introduction to the Theory of Partial Differential Equations
• Algebraic Topology
• Riemannian Geometry
• Fluid Dynamics
• Quantum Computation I and II
• Condensed Matter Physics
• High-Performance Computing
• Numerical Methods
• Additional electives
This selection of courses allows for flexibility and caters to the diverse backgrounds of admitted students.

Assessment:

The program utilizes continuous assessment throughout the semester, consisting of assignments, presentations, and written exams. The final grade is determined by:

• Continuous assessment: 60%
• Research project: 40% (submitted by the end of August)

Teaching:

The program features a collaborative environment with small class sizes and individual support for students. The teaching staff comprises professors, post-doctoral researchers, and lecturers with expertise in various areas of theoretical physics and mathematics. This ensures high-quality, interactive learning experiences. In addition to traditional lectures and tutorials, the program emphasizes independent research and problem-solving skills. This is fostered through:

• Regular individual supervision meetings
• Research seminars
• Opportunities to present their research at conferences

Careers:

Graduates of this program often pursue PhD studies in theoretical physics or mathematics, aiming for academic or research careers. This MSc provides a strong foundation for such advanced studies and is a requirement for many PhD programs. Furthermore, the expertise gained in this program is applicable in industries such as financial mathematics, data science, and high-performance computing. Graduates are highly sought after in the financial and IT sectors due to their ability to shape new theoretical developments in these areas with their advanced skills in mathematics and theoretical physics.

Other:

The MSc Theoretical Physics and Mathematics program at Maynooth University emphasizes innovative approaches to learning and research. This includes:

• A strong research focus, providing students with practical experience in conducting research projects under the guidance of world-renowned academics.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities, allowing students to explore connections between theoretical physics and mathematics and their applications in various fields.
• Collaboration with leading research institutions, such as the Hamilton Institute, providing students with access to cutting-edge facilities and resources.
• A commitment to internationalization, attracting students from diverse backgrounds and facilitating global research collaborations.