BSC THEORETICAL PHYSICS & MATHEMATICS

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Qualification
Bachelor Of Science Degree
CAO Points
500
CAO/MU Apply code
MH206
Award Type and NFQ level
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE (8)
Study Mode
Full time
Closing Date
01 February 2027
Jump to
CAO Hub

Overview

This is an advanced three-year programme, designed for students with a very strong interest in theoretical physics and mathematics. We focus on developing mathematical models, computational simulations, and abstract frameworks to explain the fundamental laws of nature.

By combining these disciplines, you do not just learn how to use mathematical tools; you learn the deep, fundamental reasons why those tools exist, as most high-level mathematics was invented specifically to solve physics problems.

Choose this degree if you are interested in the entire physical world, from the microscopic to the cosmic, studying topics such as:

  • Quantum Physics
  • Quantum computing and information
  • Elementary particles
  • Superconductivity
  • Neural Networks
  • Black Holes & Cosmology
  • Matter in extreme conditions

You will develop a deeper understanding of the various areas of modern mathematics - including analysis, algebra, geometry, and topology - and learn how to think hard and rigorously about mathematical questions and the fundamental theories of physics.

You will get experience in

  • multivariable & vector calculus, linear algebra & matrix mechanics, differential equations and complex analysis
  • numerical analysis and scientific computing & statistical modelling

Course structure

Duration: 3 years

Accelerated three year degree

  • Students enter directly into the second year of the standard 4-year Mathematical Physics programme, and take a more challenging Mathematics programme beginning in first year
  • Students concentrate on Theoretical Physics and Mathematics for each of the 3 years of the degree
  • Given the accelerated nature of this programme, a H2 grade in Leaving Certificate Mathematics is required for entry. Students require 50% in Maths (Pure) to proceed to second year. Students continue with Mathematical Studies in second year if they attain less than 50%.

Disclaimer
The modules below are indicative of the content associated with this course of study.
The modules are subject to change as the curriculum is revised and reviewed annually.
Important: The information on this page is for prospective students, MU current students and staff should use Programme Directory.

Year 1

MP1DM - Mathematical Physics

Credits: 30  |  Compulsory

Mathematical Physics modules

Module

Code

Credits

Semester

Compulsory

MP350

5

2

N

MP204

5

2

Y

MP201

5

1

Y

EP305

5

2

N

MP215

5

1

Y

MP352

5

1

Y

MP203

5

2

Y

MT1DM - Double Mathematics 1

Credits: 30  |  Compulsory

Double Mathematics 1 modules

Module

Code

Credits

Semester

Compulsory

MT244P

7.5

2

Y

MT233P

7.5

1

Y

MT236P

7.5

2

Y

MT261P

7.5

1

Y

Year 2

MP2DM - Mathematical Physics

Credits: 30  |  Compulsory

Mathematical Physics modules

Module

Code

Credits

Semester

Compulsory

MP350

5

2

N

MP354

5

2

N

MP474

5

2

N

MP361

5

1

Y

MP466

5

2

N

EP305

5

2

N

MP472

5

2

N

MP363

5

1

Y

MP364

5

2

Y

MP461

5

1

Y

MT2DM - Mathematics (Pure)

Credits: 30  |  Compulsory

Mathematics (Pure) modules

Module

Code

Credits

Semester

Compulsory

MT333P

5

2

Y

MT342P

5

1

Y

MT332P

5

2

Y

MT331P

5

1

Y

MT341P

5

1

Y

MT344P

5

2

Y

Year 3

MP3MDM - Mathematical Physics

Credits: 40  |  Compulsory

Mathematical Physics modules

Module

Code

Credits

Semester

Compulsory

MP465

5

2

Y

MP468C

5

1

N

MP468P

5

2

N

MP473

5

2

N

MP475

5

1

N

MP453

5

1

N

MP474

5

2

N

MP469

5

1

N

MP466

5

2

N

MP472

5

2

N

PHY401

5

1

N

MT3MDM - Mathematics

Credits: 40  |  Compulsory

Mathematics modules

Module

Code

Credits

Semester

Compulsory

ST405

5

1

N

MT433P

5

1

Y

MT451P

5

1

Y

MT480E

5

2

N

MT442P

5

2

N

ST304

5

2

N

MT441P

5

1

Y

ST303

5

1

N

MT444P

5

2

N

MT434P

5

2

Y

ST301

5

1

N

MT495R

5

1

N

MT496R

5

2

N

MT490R

5

2

N

ST402

5

2

N

After Graduation

Theoretical physicists and mathematicians are suitable for a wide range of occupations, not only in high-tech fields, but also in areas where analytical and problem-solving skills are valued.

Graduates progress into careers in areas such as:

  • research and development
  • quantitative finance
  • machine learning & AI
  • quantum computing industry
  • computing and software engineering
  • advanced analytics
  • Graduates are prepared for research in mathematics and theoretical physics and their applications in science and technology. Many of our graduates move on to postgraduate study and research at our university or major international universities.

Entry Requirements

Leaving Certificate Applicants

Required to present (as a minimum): 2H5 & 4O6/H7 and O6/H7 in Irish, English, Science subject (i.e. Agricultural Science, Applied Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Physics, or Physics with Chemistry) & H2 Mathematics.

DARE

Disability Access Route to Education (DARE) is an alternative entry route to third level education for school-leavers whose disability affected their second level education.

HEAR

The Higher Education Access Route (HEAR) is a pathway to third level education for school-leavers from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Contact the Access Office for more information on these access routes.

This table displays the requirements for Leaving Certificate applicants.

Entry requirements table

Subject

Required

Ordinary Level Grade

Higher Level Grade

Irish

Yes

O6

H7

English

Yes

O6

H7

Language

No

N/A

N/A

Mathematics

Yes

N/A

H2

Science

Yes

O6

H7

* This course requires 2 additional subjects.

  1. EU / EFTA Applicants - Further information can be found by navigating to our EU/EFTA applicant information page.
  2. International Applicants - International (Non-EU) applicants for undergraduate programmes submit their application online via our online application portal. Applications open on 14th October 2026 and close on 1st July 2027. For further information, please navigate to our International applicant page.

Mature applicant information

Mature applicants are assessed separately to school-leavers. Mature applicants are 23 years or older by 1 January in the year of entry.

For part-time degrees the mature age is 21.

Visit our mature applicant information page - tab 3 on this page outlines application steps for this degree.

Mature applicants who have a disability

If you have a disability or specific learning difficulty (e.g. dyslexia) and require support for any required written exercise/interview/online video audition which may form part of your application assessment, you must complete an online request form and submit supporting documentation by 15 March 2027. Applications for alternative examination accommodation cannot be considered after this deadline.

Visit the Access Office for more information on available supports and required documentation.

Mature applicant deadline: 01 February 2027

How to apply

Apply online to the CAO (Central Applications Office)

The application process depends on the type of applicant you are.

Categories of applicant:

  • School-leavers (Leaving Certificate students)
  • Mature students (23 years or older by 1 January in the year of entry/21 years if part-time)
  • EU/EFTA/UK students
  • International students (outside the EU)
  • QQI (Further Education) students
  • Transferring students
  • Deferring students

Learn more about undergraduate applications and access routes.

Got a question about this course?

Maynooth University Department of Physics
www.maynoothuniversity.ie/physics

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