Program Overview

GY320 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.

If you have an enquiring mind, and are interested in discovering how things work, then this could be the course for you. The Bachelor of Science Physics four year degree at University of Galway offers you the flexibility in how you can study physics. It 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

You will be introduced to these pathways at the very start of the programme. Students will gain an insight into some of the most exciting and interesting areas of scientific inquiry.