BSc in Physics with Computing

Sully

BSc in Physics with Computing - Level 8, Code: WD132 (Undergraduate)
Department of Computing, Mathematics and Physics.

What is the BSc (Hons) in Physics with Computing?
The BSc (Hons) in Physics with Computing is a new degree at WIT and had its first intake of students in September 2005. This is a four-year honours degree programme including a six-month work placement in industry. Graduates will develop a range of transferable skills that are valued and much sought after by industry.

Why is Physics important?
Physics plays a crucial role in medical and health science - key-hole surgery, cancer therapies, patient monitoring systems, X-Rays treatment, MRI and CT scans are all applications of Physics. Physicists are actively involved in research aimed at better understanding and protecting our environment - investigating alternative energy sources and building models to determine tomorrows weather and predicting the effects of global warming.

Why Physics with Computing?
Physics with Computing is a very exciting combination. In the past 10 years developments in sciences and technology have resulted in virtually everyone carrying around an advanced computer with them - and using it practically every day. This is of course the mobile phone and it contains more processing power then the computer that put people on the moon! Knowledge of Physics combined with computing lets us conceive of previously unforeseen devices and applications enabling us to really project our thinking into the future.

What subjects will I study?
Each academic year is split into two semesters. In each semester you will study 6 subjects, which are called modules. The following lists the modules in Years 1 and 2:

Year 1
Semester 1

• Mechanics and Waves
• Thermal Physics and Matter
• Programming Fundamentals
• Computing Essentials
• Mathematics for Physics
• Science Support Studies

Semester 2

• Electromagnetic and Solid State Physics
• Chemistry and Physics of the Atom
• Algorithms
• Computer Architecture
• Calculus
• Science, Universe and Society

Year 2
Semester 3

• Mechanics, Waves & Special Relativity
• Electromagnetism
• Digital Electronics
• Ordinary Differential Equations
• Data Structures
• Operating Systems

Semester 4

• Thermodynamics & Modern Physics
• Analogue Electronics
• Advanced Calculus
• Web Application Development
• Science, Universe and Society II
• One from:
  Data Communications
  Games Development I
  Programmable Controllers

What career opportunities will I have?
Graduates of this degree will find employment in industry and research in a range of sectors including:

• Telecommunications/Photonics
• Semiconductors
• Medical Physics
• Biomedical Devices
• Meteorology
• Advanced Manufacturing
• Software Development
• Information & Communications Technology
• Teaching
• Astronomy and Astrophysics

Opportunities also exist in other areas where logical thinking and problem-solving skills are valuable including environment science and financial services.

Are there any minimum entry requirements?
Number of subjects at grade D or better: 6 Number of subjects at higher level grade C or better (Hons): 2 Mathematics OB1/HD1 and English or Irish OD3/HD3 are required subjects.

How do I find out more?
Ask here, someone might be able to answer your questions. Otherwise, contact WIT by emailing schoolsliaison@wit.ie, calling 051 845533 or download a prospectus on www.wit.ie.

Programme Leader:
Dr. Claire Keary
Mr. Eamonn de Leastar
Email: physicsinfo@wit.ie

www.wit.ie/wd132

Information gathered from WIT Information Sheet. Copyright (C) WIT.