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CAO (Higher Education - HET)

Degree - Honours Bachelor

Physics

University of Galway - UG (formerly NUIG)
University of Galway - UG (formerly NUIG)
Course Code
GY320
Zone
Level
NFQ Type
Major
Duration
4 Years
Attendence
Full Time
CAO Points 2022
440
Points Change

Course Summary

Physics is the fundamental science, which seeks to understand the basic laws governing the structure of matter, the nature of energy and the physical forces that form our world. Its span of interest ranges from the nature of the short-range forces which operate inside the atomic nucleus to the origin and structure of the universe.

This course gives you the opportunity to experience a number of subjects along with core Physics before specialising in your chosen pathway in third year.  These pathways are:

Applied Physics
The study of physics with particular emphasis on technological and practical applications.

Astrophysics
The part of astronomy that deals with the physics of the universe, including that of stars, black holes and galaxies.

Biomedical Physics
The application of physics to the medical and biological sciences.

Theoretical Physics
The application of mathematical tools and models to explain and predict physical phenomena.

Climate Physics
Focussed on understanding the physics of climate change from a rigorous-science perspective, a study of the key processes driving climate change, enabling a response on a regional, national and international scale.

Bachelor of Science Physics - GY320
Bachelor of Science Physics - GY320

Please note some video content may not reflect the most current information

College Link

College Link > GY320 - Physics

Colleges often have information about the course on their own website, along with other useful information relating to the college. (Note: Not always available)


Career Sectors

This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.

Language Options

* Time abroad utilising this language

Disclaimer: Details subject to change - always check with the college.

Entry Requirements

Disclaimer: Details subject to change - If this is a course you are considering applying for you should check on the Colleges' website to ensure you have the latest entry requirements information.

To view Mature Entry requirements, or alternative requirements, please visit Qualifax or the Colleges' website

If you believe the data above to be incorrect, please let us know at [email protected] - thank you.

QQI / FET Links

PLC courses leading to the following QQI Major Awards may be used for entry into this course.

Search for PLC Courses offering these awards
(Click on the Codes)

Note: Information for 2025 Entry
Award Code Award Title
5M0529 Software Development
5M0536 Computer Systems and Networks
5M3807 Laboratory Techniques
5M5267 Food Science

Points Calculator for QQI Awards:
Details of the QQI scoring system and a points calculator can be found  HERE

The Student

Career Interests

This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.

Investigative

The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.

Career Progression

A degree in physics is an excellent training for employment in high technology industries (e.g. communications, electronics, optics and photonics, semiconductors, medical devices) and also in fields such as second- and third-level education, climate science, meteorology, the environmental and medical sciences, and software design.

Further Research

College Link > GY320 - Physics

Colleges often have information about the course on their own website, along with other useful information relating to the college. (Note: Not always available)

Qualifax
Qualifax Course Page

Qualifax is the National Learners Database. (Note: Link not always available)

DISCLAIMER: These links are to official sources of information for this course - we accept no responsibility for the information on them.

College News

Minister O’Donovan launches Institute for Health Discovery and Innovation at UG
Posted by University of Galway
An Máistir Gairmiúil san Oideachas
Posted by University of Galway
Higher Education Course of the Week - GY313: Environmental Health and Safety at University of Galway
Posted by University of Galway
NUI Galway to be renamed 'Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, University of Galway"
Posted by University of Galway

College Events

October
03
9:00 AM
Open Day
University of Galway - UG (formerly NUIG)
October
04
9:00 AM
Open Day
University of Galway - UG (formerly NUIG)
November
11
4:00 PM
Postgraduate Open Evening
University of Galway - UG (formerly NUIG)
January
29
12:00 PM
Postgraduate Open Day
University of Galway - UG (formerly NUIG)
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