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MSC THEORETICAL PHYSICS AND MATHEMATICS
This 1-year taught master's will introduce you to current ideas and methods at the forefront of modern theoretical physics and mathematics research, from gravitation and cosmology, to condensed matter physics, algebraic and differential topology, and more.
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- Qualification
- Master Of Science Degree
- CAO/MU Apply code
- MHQ56
- Award Type and NFQ level
- TAUGHT MASTERS (9)
- Study Mode
- Full time
- Closing Date
- 27 August 2027
Overview
This course is intended introduce graduates in theoretical physics, mathematics, and related disciplines to current ideas and methods at the forefront of modern theoretical physics and mathematics research, including
• Topics in theoretical physics: gravitation and cosmology, fluid mechanics, condensed matter physics, quantum information and subatomic physics.
• Topics in pure mathematics: functional analysis, algebraic and differential topology, representation theory, Riemannian and non-Riemannian geometry.
Although the topics are diverse, there are commonalities which mean that the same mathematical and numerical methods can often be used in different fields, and there are many intersections between these topics. This MSc will also introduce descriptions and methods originally developed in theoretical physics and mathematics, which have found application in a wide range of other fields including biological systems, finance and computer science. It introduces students to the forefront of current research through a supervised project and may serve as an entry point to a research degree.
Course structure
Duration: 1 year full-time
Full-time students will take 30 ECTS each semester, plus the 30-ECTS research project over the summer. The 60 ECTS of taught modules normally includes at least 40 ECTS at 500- and 600-level. The 500- and 600-level modules each have at least 3 contact hours per week including tutorials/problem classes. Several reading modules and advanced final year undergraduate modules are included to allow flexibility to address the needs of the students, given the likely diversity of their backgrounds.
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.
Careers after your Masters
Many graduates of this programme will wish to pursue PhD study in the areas of theoretical physics or mathematics, often with a view to an academic or research career. An MSc in these areas provides a strong and necessary foundation. For application to many PhD programmes, it is an essential qualification.
Outside academia, the expertise gained in a theoretical physics and mathematics MSc is frequently applied in industries such as financial mathematics, data science and high-performance computing. Graduates from theoretical physics and mathematics MSc programmes are highly sought after in the financial and IT sectors. It is important to emphasise that mathematics and physics provide the theoretical foundations on which the software and algorithms used in these industries is based. Graduates with advanced degrees in mathematics and theoretical physics are therefore well-equipped to make fundamental contributions: shaping new theoretical developments at the coalface in these areas.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must hold a minimum of a Bachelor Honours degree (NFQ Level 8) or equivalent with a minimum of Second-Class Honours, Grade 1 (2:1) in Theoretical Physics and Mathematics.
Applicants who hold a minimum of a Bachelor Honours degree (NFQ Level 8) (or equivalent) with a minimum of a Second-Class Honours, Grade 1 (2:1) in physics with substantial mathematics or hold a degree in mathematics with substantial physics may also be considered.
If you do not meet the standard entry requirements then you may be eligible to apply under the University's Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy. Please click here for further information.
Applicants for whom English is not their first language are required to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study. For information about English language tests accepted and required scores, please see here.
How to apply
Applications must be made via the MU Apply portal. Please click here to start your application.
When making your application, please ensure you prepare any documents listed below. You may be required to submit documents in two stages. You will be required to upload and submit the following documents with your application:
- Full academic transcripts for all semesters/ years completed to date
- Graduation Certificate if you have graduated
- A copy of your passport
- Up to date CV
You will be required to upload the following documents after you submit your application:
- Personal Statement (minimum 500 words on why you would like to study your chosen programme)
If English is not your first language, you may be required to upload evidence of English language proficiency. For information please click here.