利莫利克大学

Why Study Mathematics and Physics at UL?

Traditional mathematical physics degrees in Ireland have been narrow in their scope. This course seeks to provide a genuine mixture of the two subjects. In addition to developing core and advanced mathematical skills, training will be provided in fundamental physics spanning mechanics to quantum mechanics, and in state-of-the-art applications of physics such as nanotechnology.

The analytical training and broad physical understanding of challenges likely to be encountered in an industrial setting will prove to be a valuable asset for prospective employers. The applied aspects in particular will ensure that, on graduation, you will be at an advantage in comparison to more traditional Maths Physics graduates, when seeking employment in the smart economy. In such an economy envisaged by the Government, academic and industrial research will be closely coupled.

Course Structure

This full time programme is of four years duration. The first two years are a combination of the main modules taken in both the mathematical sciences degree and the applied physics degree at UL. In these first two years the fundamental aspects of physics and mathematics are established. Physical subjects will include such topics as Mechanics, Waves, Light, Thermal Physics, Electromagnetism, and Modern Physics, which spans the scope of current basic understanding in physics. In addition, more applied topics are Optics and Semiconductors which are essential to modern technology.

Mathematical subjects include Calculus, Algebra, Vector Analysis, Ordinary and Partial Differential Equations, Numerical Analysis, Fourier Analysis and Computer Software.

During the spring semester of the third year, a period of cooperative education (placement in industry) provides you with practical experience in a relevant work environment. This is organised by the University’s Cooperative Education Department in collaboration with representatives from various industries, both in Ireland and abroad. Students are interviewed by company representatives. On selection, they are offered full-time employment during the Cooperative Education period and are paid at a competitive rate.

The remainder of the modules taken during third and fourth year offer a more in-depth view of both mathematics and physics. The offered modules include: Quantum Mechanics, Solid State Physics, Atomic, Molecular and Laser Physics, Nano-technology, Numerical Solution of Partial Differential Equations and Mathematics of Natural Phenomena.

During the final year, a project is undertaken that allows you to analyse a particular problem in depth. This also gives students interested in postgraduate research an opportunity to carry out an exploratory investigation of a potential research topic.

Career Prospects

Careers open to you with a degree in Mathematics and Physics include;

• Physicist
• Meteorologist
• Patent Agent
• Planetary Scientist
• Acoustical Physicist
• Teacher

As more and more of the world’s leading technical and finance companies locate in Ireland, graduates with the skills provided by the B.Sc. in Mathematics and Physics are needed now more than ever. Examples include companies such as Havok who build the physics engines that power video games and special effects.

Follow-On Study

The B.Sc. in Mathematics and Physics prepares students for postgraduate degrees, which can lead to research opportunities at UL such as MASCI (Mathematics Applications Consortium for Science and Industry). This is a network of applied mathematicians and physicists who work on solving industrial problems that come directly from companies within Ireland. Graduates might also opt for the MSc in Mathematical Modeling.