Physical Sciences (Common Entry)

Bachelor of Science (Honours)

Physical Sciences students in a lab conducting research
Physical Sciences students in a lab conducting research
Type of Programme
Full-time
Number of Places
20
Duration
4 Years
Course Code
MT 870
Entry Requirements
326 Points in 2023 and meet minimum entry requirements as listed below.
Application Deadline
See CAO for details
Location(s)
MTU Bishopstown Campus, Cork
Course NFQ Level
Level 8

Eva Norris

T: +353 (0)21 433 5594

Email: (email)

Overview

The Physical Sciences (Common Entry) course is designed for applicants who wish to enter a physical science course in MTU but are undecided about or wish to postpone selecting a designated chemistry or physics qualification until after they have had an opportunity to experience both disciplines.

Common Semester 1: The common semester 1 programme includes modules in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, and Computing so that students will have completed an introduction to general science by the end of semester 1. At the end of semester 1, students choose the chemistry or physics degree course that they wish to pursue in semester 2.

 

Students on the Level 8 Physical Sciences Common Entry Programme MT 870 can apply to progress to one of the three Level 8 science courses:

  • MT 833 BSc (Honours) in Instrument Engineering
  • MT 878 BSc (Honours) in Environmental Science and Sustainable Technology
  • MT 874 BSc (Honours) in Analytical Chemistry with Quality Assurance

 

Chemistry and physics are physical sciences, and MTU delivers programmes focusing on the applied, industry-relevant aspects of these subjects.

Science refers to a system of acquiring knowledge. This system uses observation and experimentation to describe and explain natural phenomena. Science is an excellent career choice for those interested in understanding how the chemicals, foods and other products that we encounter in everyday life are designed and produced. From cures for life-threatening illnesses, to environmental protection, to the design of new foods and space science, careers in science are varied and interesting.

The common entry mode to physical sciences offers students the opportunity to study a broad introduction to various science modules before deciding on their preferred stream in semester 2 of year 1.

What will I study?

First year at a glance

Semester 1

  • Biology: study of fundamental building blocks of life
  • Chemical Principles: study of general chemical Interactions
  • Physics: study of fundamental basis of energy, light and heat
  • Laboratory Skills: understanding the basis for good laboratory practice in a chemistry laboratory
  • Mathematics: fundamental mathematical concepts and skills required to understand and solve problems in the modern world
  • Instrument Measurement: introduces the principles of measurement using a range of instruments and includes the theory and principles of operation of instrumentation pertaining to process and other industries
  • Creativity, Innovation and Teamwork: Team building, independent working and communication skills development

 

Semester 2

  • Semester 2 modules are determined by the designated degree programme selected following completion of Semester 1.

Modules

What is a Module?

A module is a standalone unit of learning and assessment and is completed within one semester. A full-time student will normally study six modules in each semester; part-time and ACCS (Accumulation of Credits and Certification of Subjects) students will have flexibility as to the number of modules taken.

The button below provides a link to all of the University's approved modules for this programme.

View Modules

Entry Requirements

Entry 2024

For admission to a programme, standard applicants must

  • score the necessary CAO points and
  • meet the minimum entry requirements

Leaving Certificate in six subjects i.e. H5 in two subjects and O6/H7 in four other subjects. The six subjects must include Mathematics and either English or Irish grade O6/H7.

 

For Non-EU International Entry Requirements please visit https://www.mtu.ie/international/non-eu/.

Physical Sciences student in a lab

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MTU Department of Physical Sciences

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Question Time

Students have an opportunity to take introductory modules in both chemistry and physics (in addition to other areas of general science) before choosing the discipline they wish to follow.

No – the fundamentals of the three Leaving Certificate science subjects are delivered in Semester 1.

Students commencing on the Level 7 route will have completed their ordinary BSc degree in 3 years, while those who choose the Level 8 route will take 4 years to complete their Honours BSc degree, with significant additional material being delivered in the fourth year to achieve the higher level award.

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