Physics from UCD College of Science is about the fundamental laws of the universe that govern living as well as non-living systems. It is a fundamental science, involving a deep understanding of nature derived from mathematical and experimental insights. Physics is the subject that constantly asks ?why??, questioning why matter and energy exist and act as they do, and discovering the underlying rules that govern their behaviour. Physicists now believe that all phenomena observed in the universe can be explained in terms of a handful of forces: gravity, electricity, magnetism, and weak and strong nuclear interactions. X-rays, radioactivity and particle beams have led to advances in medicine. The invention of lasers and solid-state transistors by physicists paved the way for computers, DVD players and iPods. Understanding physical principles and discovering new laws that explain our universe at an even deeper level are the challenges that confront physicists in the 21st century.
Career & Graduate Study Opportunities
Recent graduates have pursued careers in the following:
- Energy technology
- Medical physics
- Meteorology
- Advanced materials (e.g. semiconductor industry)
- Geoscience
- ICT and financial industries
- Semi-state bodies such as EPA?s Office of Radiological Protection
International Study Opportunities
Students can apply to study for a semester or year in third year in a number of universities worldwide including:
- University of California, Berkeley, USA
- University of California, Santa Cruz, USA
- San Jose State University, California, USA
- University of Melbourne, Australia
