BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (HONOURS) IN PHYSICS WITH INSTRUMENTATION
Why Study Physics and Instrumentation?
Do you have an interest in a subject so diverse that it explores the limits of the universe from large cosmological events down to sub-atomic particles? Are you interested in developing new ways to use powerful techniques such as electron microscopy, ultrasound and atomic force microscopy? Are you interested in Medical Physics—the use of equipment to image and analyse the body? Then the programme in Physics and Instrumentation may be for you.
Graduates are snapped up by leading employers in the areas of semiconductor device development, instrument control systems, the pharmaceutical sector and medical physics. There is currently a skills shortage in many of these areas, with consequent great opportunities for Physics and Instrumentation graduates. During the programme the student works in areas such as robotics, scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy following ultra-modern procedures.
This programme provides students with an extensive knowledge and experience of modern instrumentation and control systems. The delivery is focused on teaching instrumentation and related topics through the how-and-why approach of a physicist.
There is an emphasis on developing flexibility in thinking with the ability to synthesise new ideas whilst further advancing practical skills. This approach means that the graduate will be able to use and further develop current instruments and systems, and will also be readily able to understand and adapt to new technologies.
There is a high emphasis on practical work and projects—the student completes a number of projects over the course of this programme, and these can range from building electronic guitars, to making heart monitors, to finding new ways to use electron microscopy.
Programme Modules
Programme modules include all modules on the level 7 ordinary degree programme plus the following:
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Physics; Applied Optics and Optoelectronics
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Signal and Image Processing; Laboratory Module
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System Modelling and Design; Spectroscopic Instrumentation
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Industrial placement
Career Opportunities
Graduates meet the requirements of industry at professional or engineer level.
They gain employment in the following areas:
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The design of industrial instrumentation and process control systems.
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The development and design of new instruments and transducers.
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Setting up testing and validation procedures.
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In research activities in the semiconductor sector
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In sectors such as software, pharmaceutical, biomedical and electronics.
Post-graduate Studies
GMIT honours (Level 8) qualifications are recognised world-wide for post-graduate entry.
Other Essential Information
There is no need to have studied physics at leaving Certificate, as the fundamentals of all science subjects are delivered in year one.
The B.Sc. (Honours) Degree in Physics and Instrumentation is recognised by the Teaching Council for progression to the Post Graduate Diploma in Education, on completion of which, graduates are eligible to teach Physics to Leaving Certificate in second level schools.
This is a six month work placement in year three.