Applied Physics

The BSc in Applied Physics at Dublin City University offers students a comprehensive and practical education in the fundamental principles and advanced applications of physics in real-world contexts. This innovative programme is designed to equip students with a solid understanding of core physical concepts while fostering skills that are highly valued in industries such as electronics, renewable energy, telecommunications, healthcare, and manufacturing. Throughout the course, students engage with a mix of theoretical knowledge and hands-on laboratory work, enabling them to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills essential for their future careers.

The curriculum includes modules in classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, quantum physics, and materials science, complemented by specialized subjects such as nanotechnology, optical physics, and computational physics. Students will have the opportunity to participate in research projects, internships, and industry collaborations, providing valuable industry exposure and practical experience. The programme emphasizes the use of advanced laboratory equipment and modern simulation tools, preparing graduates to work effectively in research and development environments.

Graduates of Applied Physics are well-prepared for employment in high-tech industries, research institutions, or further studies in physics or engineering fields. The programme also aims to foster innovation and entrepreneurship among students, encouraging them to develop new technologies and solutions to contemporary scientific challenges. With a strong foundation in both theoretical and applied aspects of physics, Dublin City University’s Applied Physics programme offers a dynamic learning environment that combines academic excellence with real-world relevance, supporting students to become the next generation of scientific and technological leaders.

This four-year degree combines lectures, tutorials and stimulating laboratory work and projects with fundamental physics concepts and exciting, real-life technological skills and applications.

The basic foundations of physics will be laid in Years One and Two, while in Years Three and Four, you can choose to study specialist topics, such as instrumentation, nanotechnology, semiconductor materials, plasma physics and microfluidics.

In Year Three, your paid INTRA work placement will give you the opportunity experience industry for up to eight months. If you wish to pursue a research career, you will have the option of spending your placement working in one of the research groups in the School of Physical Sciences, where you’ll assist with cutting-edge research projects.

You’ll conduct your Year Four project in DCU’s world-class laboratories, experiencing the excitement and personal achievement associated with scientific research. On several occasions, final-year physics students have received national and international awards from the Undergraduate Awards, the Institute of Physics and the International Society of Automation on the basis of their project work.

During the course, you’ll be encouraged to apply for scientific internship schemes, including visiting fellowships in organisations such as the European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN) and the European Space Agency (ESA).

General Entry Requirements

A minimum of six Leaving Certificate subjects at Grade 06/H7, to include the subjects English OR Irish AND the subject Mathematics. In addition, applicants must present at least two subjects at grade H5.

Leaving Certificate

In addition to the general entry requirements for admission to the university the following entry requirements apply

Minimum of O3 or H6 in Mathematics and minimum of O3 or H5 in one of Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Physics with Chemistry or Applied Mathematics

GCE A Level

In addition to the general entry requirements for admission to the university the following entry requirements apply

GCE A Level D or GCE AS Level C or GCSE B Mathematics and GCE A Level D or GCE AS Level C or GCSE B in one of Physics, Chemistry, Biology or Physics with Chemistry.

Applicants presenting Non-EU School Leaving Qualification

All qualifications will be taken into consideration in assessing these applications. Candidates are expected to:

• have taken school leaving examinations of a standard equivalent to the Irish Leaving Certificate or GCE A Level; and
• satisfy the general entry requirements and programme entry requirements outlined within the programme contents
• satisfy the English language requirements

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Dublin City University is proud to award merit-based scholarships to high achieving students who enter the Faculty of Engineering and Computing and the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences for the 2016/17 academic year. These scholarships are available to Indian applicants only and are based on academic merit to those who have a Full Offer. 

The Faculties also award scholarships of €1,000 to high achievers entering Masters and Bachelor programmes who are ranked by academic achievement. 

Applied Physics at Dublin City University offers students a comprehensive education that combines fundamental physics principles with practical applications. The program is designed to equip graduates with the skills necessary to innovate in fields such as electronics, renewable energy, telecommunications, and materials science. Throughout the course, students engage in rigorous coursework covering classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum physics, and thermodynamics while also gaining hands-on experience through laboratory work and project-based learning. The curriculum emphasizes the development of strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, preparing students for diverse careers or further research in physics and engineering disciplines.

At DCU, Applied Physics students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced laboratories equipped with modern instrumentation and computational resources. The program features industry collaborations and internship opportunities, allowing students to gain valuable real-world experience and build professional networks. The teaching staff are active researchers, ensuring the curriculum remains aligned with current scientific advancements and technological innovations. Furthermore, students benefit from DCU's strong links with industry partners, which facilitate innovation, entrepreneurship, and employment prospects after graduation. The program also offers pathways into postgraduate research, with opportunities to specialize in areas such as nanotechnology, photonics, and materials engineering. Graduates of Applied Physics at DCU are well-prepared for careers in academia, industry, or research and development sectors, and many find employment in high-tech companies, government agencies, and scientific institutions across Ireland and internationally.