Astrophysics BSc

Program Overview

Combining physics, numerical methods, and computational skills, the program prepares students for careers in academia, research, and various industries. It includes practical experience using a research-grade telescope and emphasizes problem-solving abilities.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Astrophysics BSc at UCC is designed for students interested in astronomy and the physics of the universe. It provides a strong foundation in physics, numerical methods, and computational skills, similar to a traditional physics degree.

Outline:

Year 1:

• Core Modules:
• PY1052 Introductory Physics I (10 credits)
• PY1053 Introductory Physics II (10 credits)
• MA1058 Introduction to Linear Algebra (5 credits)
• MA1059 Calculus (5 credits)
• MA1060 Introduction to Analysis (5 credits)
• AM1052 Introduction to Mechanics (5 credits)
• AM1053 Introduction to Mathematical Modelling (5 credits)
• Electives:
• AM1054 Mathematical Software (5 credits)
• CM1006 Introduction to Chemistry for Physicists and Mathematicians (10 credits)
• CM1007 Introduction to Chemistry for Physicists (15 credits)
• CS1061 Programming in C (5 credits)
• CS1065 Computer Applications with Visual Basic (5 credits)
• CS1068 Introductory Programming in Python (5 credits)
• MA1057 Introduction to Abstract Algebra (5 credits)
• PY1054 Special Topics in Physics (5 credits)
• ST1051 Introduction to Probability and Statistics (5 credits)
• BL1002 Cells, Biomolecules, Genetics and Evolution (5 credits)
• BL1003 Introduction to Biological Chemistry and Microbiology (5 credits)
• BL1004 Physiology and Structure of Plants and Animals (5 credits)
• BL1005 Introduction to Ecology (5 credits)

Year 2:

• Core Modules: Astrophysics and Special Relativity; C/C++ Programming with Applications; Classical Mechanics; Computational Physics; Electrostatics and Magnetostatics; Experimental Physics; Experimental Methods; Fourier Methods; Multivariable Calculus; Quantum Physics; Thermodynamics and Statistical Physics.
• Electives: Ordinary Differential Equations; Linear Algebra; Mathematical Modelling

Year 3:

• Core Modules: Computer Modelling and Numerical Techniques; Condensed Matter Physics: Electromagnetism; Experimental Physics; Experimental Methods; Nuclear and Particle Physics; Optics; Quantum Mechanics; Statistical Thermodynamics; Vector and Tensor Methods; Observational Astrophysics.
• Electives: Mathematical Experimentation and Chaos; Fluid Mechanics; Optimisation and the Calculus of Variations; Computational Techniques

Year 4:

• Core Modules: Stars and the Interstellar Medium; Galactic and Extragalactic Astrophysics; Gravitation and Cosmology; Research Project; Experimental Physics.
• Electives: Quantum Optics; Physics of Semiconductor Devices; Advanced Mechanics; Advanced Quantum Mechanics; Advanced Electromagnetism; Advanced Condensed Matter Physics; Atomic and Molecular Physics; Quantum Field Theory; Introduction to Plasma Physics; Introduction to Lasers and Photonics; Advanced Computational Physics

Assessment:

• Written exams are held before Christmas and in May.
• Not all modules have formal examinations.
• Other assessment methods are used, such as coursework, projects, and presentations.

Teaching:

• The program includes practical experience using a research-grade telescope abroad in Year 3.
• The university houses the Crawford Observatory and a new astronomical observing facility.

Careers:

• Most practicing astronomers in Ireland work in academia, teaching and conducting research.
• Graduates with an Astrophysics degree have a wide range of career options, including:
• Software engineer
• Energy researcher
• Eircom engineer
• Stockbroker
• Geophysicist
• BT technical manager

Other:

• The program includes a field trip abroad to an astronomical observatory in Year 3.
• The program emphasizes problem-solving skills.
• Students have the opportunity to observe Mars and Saturn's rings through a 12m research-class telescope in Greece.