Physics is a fundamental science that explores the laws governing matter, energy, and the forces that shape our universe. Its scope spans from the short-range interactions within atomic nuclei to the large-scale structure and origin of the cosmos. Beyond theory, physics drives technological innovation across many multidisciplinary areas, including materials science in industry, medical devices in healthcare, and climate science in addressing environmental challenges.

The BSc. in Physics provides a strong foundation in core scientific principles while also building an understanding of how physics is applied across a broad range of modern fields.

In the first year, students study fundamental topics in physics and mathematics, alongside either biology or chemistry. Laboratory sessions greatly complement the lectures and emphasize hands-on, practical learning.

In the second year, students explore key areas of modern physics in greater depth, including mechanics, electromagnetism, and atomic physics, while also developing computational skills through programming. Experimental skills are further enhanced through advanced laboratory work.

In the third year, students continue with core physics and mathematics while beginning to specialize in one of the degree options: theoretical, applied, biomedical, climate physics, or astrophysics. Each semester includes a specialist module tailored to the chosen stream. Laboratory sessions further develop scientific instrumentation skills and provide employability training.

In the final year, students deepen their expertise within their chosen specialist stream, and take advanced modules such as applied optics & imaging, biophotonics, exoplanets & planet formation, solid state physics, and atmospheric physics & climate change. They also complete a one- or two-semester research project under the guidance of an academic supervisor, starting with a literature review and culminating in a personal contribution to their chosen field.

Year 1

• Physics
• Frontiers in physics
• Mathematics or mathematical studies
• Applied mathematics

Year 2

• Energy, Forces & Motion in Physics
• Modern Physics
• Electricity and Magnetism
• Computational Physics
• Astrophysics concepts

• Mathematical methods

• Programming

Year 3

• Quantum physics

• Wave optics
• Nuclear physics
• Properties of materials
• Physics laboratory and employability training

Year 4

• Final year research project
• Quantum mechanics
• Solid state physics
• Electromagnetism and relativity
• Applied optics and imaging

Curriculum Information

Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).
Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change. [an error occurred while processing this directive]

• Flexibility to specialise in one of the five fundamental areas of physics.
• Innovative laboratory programme that provides practical, hands-on experience and develops a unique scientific skill set.
• A diverse range of specialised courses in physics taught by international experts in their respective fields.
• The BSc in Physics is more than a degree—it’s your gateway to opportunities in industry, multinational companies, research centers, academia and beyond.
• Annual international field trip to Italy’s Loiano Observatory offer students immersive experiences in cutting edge research and scientific heritage

A degree in Physics provides excellent preparation for careers in high-tech industries such as communications, electronics, optics and photonics, semiconductors, and medical devices. Our BSc Physics programme is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP), meaning it meets high standards set by the physics community. This gives you a degree recognised by employers and universities worldwide and confidence you’re getting a quality, industry-aligned education. This needs to be expanded - to at least double size, with more specific detail.

The degree is accredited (mentioned in next section) - how does this affect employment prospects? Are other physics degrees in Ireland similarly accredited - or does this give University of Galway graduates a distinct advantage in the employment market?

The BSc. Physics degree has the flexibility to accommodate student-led study abroad or international placement opportunities as they arise, on a case-by-case basis (e.g. University of Galway Erasmus programme), where they are compatible with the curriculum.

Students are eligible to apply for the College of Science and Engineering Study Abroad scheme that has lots of possible destinations https://www.universityofgalway.ie/science-engineering/international-students/outgoingexchanges/

Erasmus+ Malta EU

• English speaking university
• Full academic year in third year
• Department specialises in quantum physics
• Traditional teaching methods

Best suited to theoretical physics stream students, but other streams possible too.

Study Abroad Fairfield University USA

• Connecticut USA. Within easy reach of New York City.
• Semester 2 of third year.
• Curriculum a close match to core of third year physics.
• Tutorial and small class teaching methods.

 Study Abroad Rose-Hulman USA

• Terre Haute, Indiana USA. Indianapolis nearest big city.
• Semester 2 of third year.
• Curriculum a good match to core of third year physics, may suit Applied Physics stream particularly.
• Tutorial and small class teaching methods, lots of laboratory work.
• Exchange agreement still being finalised, so availability is TBC.

 

Approximately every 5 years, the School applies to the Institute of Physics (IoP) for (re-)accreditation. The Institute of Physics (IOP) is the professional body and learned society for physics in the UK and Ireland, with an active role in promoting co-operation in physics around the world.  The application details our Physics unit in terms of its organisation, staff and their credentials; providing a detailed breakdown of the BSc Physics curriculum, and how it aligns with and delivers the IoP Core of Physics mandatory topics; demonstrating how skills are developed and assessed in the practical laboratory, computational work, group-work, oral presentations, interview-format discussions, and extended research projects; and tracking the progression of the BSc Physics class intakes through their degree, in recent years.  

Prof Matt Redman
Dr Miriam Byrne
Dr Marie Coggins
Dr Adam Collins
Dr Kleefeld Christoph
Dr Nicholas Devaney
Dr Jessamyn Fairfield
Dr Mark Foley
Dr Gary Gillanders
Dr Christian Ginski
Dr Alexander Goncharov
Dr Mark Lang
Prof Martin Leahy
Prof Gerard O’Connor
Dr Jurgita Ovadnevaite
Dr Yury Rochev
Prof Alan Ryder
Dr Patricia Scully
Dr Brian Ward

The BSc. in Physics is designed to develop students’ deep understanding of physical principles. Simultaneously, strong analytical, problem-solving, and quantitative skills are built, which are greatly valued by employers. The entire learning experience is dynamic, combining theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory training to prepare students for careers in research, technology, and a wide range of scientific fields.

How Will I Learn?

1. Lectures and Tutorials – Core concepts in physics and mathematics are delivered through lectures, with tutorials providing opportunities to deepen understanding through problem-solving and discussion.
2. Laboratory Training – A structured lab programme builds practical skills in experimental design, data analysis, scientific instrumentation, and teamwork, essential for a career in science.
3. Specialist Modules – In Years 3 and 4, students choose a specialist stream such as Astrophysics, Climate Physics, Biomedical Physics, Theoretical or Applied Physics—and take advanced modules aligned with their interests and career goals.
4. Research and Project Work – Final-year students complete an independent research project, applying their knowledge to real-world problems under the guidance of academic mentors.
5. International and Interdisciplinary Opportunities– High-performing students may study abroad through Erasmus. Physics also integrates with computing, mathematics, and environmental science, offering a broad skillset for modern scientific challenges.

How Will I Be Assessed?

1. Continuous Assessment—Regular coursework, in-class tests, and homework exercises. Students receive weekly feedback on their progress. (Typically counts for 20% of module marks.)
2. Examinations— Written exams are held before Christmas and in May. They assess students’ ability to apply core principles, theoretical knowledge and problem-solving skills. (Final exams typically account for 80% of module marks.)
3. Oral Assessments—Students complete lab interviews at the end of each semester, to demonstrate their understanding of key concepts and experimental methods. (Contributes up to 50% in lab-based modules.)

Project Work— In final year, students carry out individual research projects. These are assessed through written reports, 

Course queries:
alexander.goncharov@universityofgalway.ie 

Programme Director:
Dr Alexander Goncharov,
Senior Lecturer in Physics,
School of Natural Sciences
E: alexander.goncharov@universityofgalway.ie
T: 091 495189

Q: Do I need to have studied physics in school for the Leaving Cert to study physics at university?
A: No, you do not need to have studied Physics for the Leaving Certificate to apply for the BSc Physics (GY320) degree at the University of Galway. While having Leaving Cert Physics can be helpful, it is not a requirement—the university teaches foundational physics in first year

Q: Do I need to have studied higher level mathematics in school to study physics at university?
A: No, you do not need to have studied Higher Level Mathematics for the Leaving Certificate to study Physics at the University of Galway. The BSc Physics (GY320) programme includes mathematics courses in first and second year to bring all students up to the required standard

Q: Are there any progression restrictions if I choose Biology or Chemistry as one of my subjects in first year at university?
A: Yes. Biology is required for the Biomedical Physics stream, while Chemistry is required for the Climate Physics stream. The Theoretical Physics and Astrophysics streams do not require Biology and Chemistry, but do require Applied Mathematics. For the Applied Physics stream, any of these three subjects (Biology, Chemistry, or Applied Mathematics) can be chosen.

 

 

 

Minimum Entry Requirements
Minimum Grade H5 in two subjects and passes in four additional subjects at O6/H7 level in the Leaving Certificate, including Irish, English, a laboratory science subject (i.e. Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Physics with Chemistry (joint),Computer Science or Agricultural Science) and any two other subjects recognised for entry purposes.

Alternative Pathways
The Access Centre at University of Galway provides a number of alternative entry routes to undergraduate programmes. See below some useful links:

• QQI/FET/FETAC Places
• Mature Students
• Access and Foundation programmes
• HEAR Scheme
• DARE Scheme

 Other Qualifications
If you are a school leaver presenting results other than Leaving Cert results, please review the entry requirements relevant to you:

• A Level students
• International Baccalaureate students
• EU students

For applicants whose first language is not English, it is important to check our English Language Requirements.

Admissions Office
Our Admissions Office provides additional detail relevant to CAO applicants including key dates, FAQs and instructions for non-school leavers.

 

Irish and European (EU/EFTA/UK) Applicants
Apply via the CAO. See the CAO Handbook for useful information on applying through the CAO.

Mature Applicants
Apply via the CAO by 1 February. To apply for a place as a mature student, you must be 23 years of age on or before 1 January of the year of entry. Further information available here.

QQI/FET/FETAC Applicants
Apply via the CAO. See our QQI/FET/FETAC Applicants page for information on places available and entry requirements

Course Type	Year	EU Tuition	Student Contribution	Non-EU Tuition	Levy	Total Fee	Total EU Fee	Total Non-EU Fee

University of Galway is committed to attracting high-calibre students from around the world. To this end, we offer a range of merit-based scholarships to students from a number of outside of the EU countries, in line with our strategic international priorities. For international students commencing study at University of Galway there are a number of different scholarships on offer.

High-achieving undergraduate students are encouraged to apply for a range of prestigious scholarships that recognise academic excellence and support students in reaching their full potential. Click here for further Information.

Undergraduate Merit Awards (€2,000 - €5,000):

€2,000 for all first-year students in the School of Natural Sciences (offered for four years)

Undergraduate Excellence Awards (€10,000 - €20,000):

€10,000 for one student each in the Schools of Engineering and Natural Sciences (offered for four years)

More details here

Students applying for full undergraduate degree programmes from outside of the European Union (EU), and who are liable for full non-EU tuition fees, should apply online via Apply to University of Galway. Our application portal opens on the 1^st October each year for each the following September.  

Further Information

Please visit the international application webpage for further information on closing dates, documentation requirements, application fees and the application process.