Science with Nanotechnology / Eolaíocht le Nanaitheicneolaíocht DT227
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Qualification awarded: BSc (Science with Nanotechnology) Level 8 / BSc (Eolaíocht le Nanaitheicneolaíocht) Leibhéal 8
Duration of programme:
4 years
Type of programme:
Honours Degree
Number of places:
15 approx.
What is Science with Nanotechnology?
Nanoscience is the study of the very small - things at the nanometer (one thousandth millionth of a metre) scale. This is the scale of large molecules - molecular chains (like plastics), proteins (from biology), nano-crystals.
Nanotechnology comprises technological developments on the nanometer scale. Nanotechnology includes the techniques used to create structures at a size scale below 100 nm, including those used for fabrication of tiny devices in new generations of electronics and computer chips. It includes machines that can literally build themselves atom by atom; materials with special properties like car-paint that doesn’t scratch, bubble and inkjet technologies, and many others that are becoming increasingly prevalent. In fact many of today’s global challenges in health, environment, agriculture, and energy can be potentially addressed by nanotechnology intervention.
Nanoscience and nanotechnology are built upon chemistry and physics. This degree is a solid science degree (physics and chemistry) but with a unique focus on nanoscience and nanotechnology. In the Years 3 and 4 of the degree the student chooses to major in either physics or chemistry, but all students do the nanotechnology modules.
What are my career opportunities?
Many industries use nanotechnology: semiconductors and electronics, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, automotive, food, agriculture, and more. Industry across Europe is predicting a big shortage of graduates with knowledge of nanotechnology in the near future.
There’s a wide range of careers for chemistry and physics graduates, many of them using the methodology of physics and chemistry: technical know-how, the logical approach, problem-solving skills. Physics graduates work in physics-based industries such as the critical and growing areas of medical physics, bioengineering and medical devices, and also the electronics industry, alternative energy development and telecommunications. Many chemistry graduates work in the very large Irish pharmaceuticals industry. Graduates of this degree are unique - they will have the skills and knowledge of both physicists and chemists, as well as nanoscience and nanotechnology.
What other options do I have after completion?
Students who have reached the appropriate honours standard may have access to a wide range of Masters degrees and PhD Degrees in DIT and elsewhere in Higher Education.
What will I study on this programme?
This degree is a physics and chemistry degree with a unique focus on nanoscience and nanotechnology. In the later years of the degree the student chooses to specialise in either physics or chemistry, but all students do the nanotechnology modules.
Concentration on a single subject is not enough for any scientist, especially in as wide-ranging a subject area as nanotechnology. So as well as chemistry and physics this degree programme covers relevant Biology, Problem Solving Skills, Computer Studies, Maths (in Years 1 and 2) and Professional Skills.
Much of the physics in years 1 and 2 is delivered using Problem Based Learning which allows students to develop additional skills and qualities sought by industry including the ability to work in teams, interpersonal skills and adaptability. IT and Computing form an integral part of the programme which is characterised by extensive practical and project components.
In addition to the scientific modules, students will take a series of professional development modules on topics such as Entrepreneurial skills, Invention, Innovation and commercialisation skills and the role of science and technology in society. These modules will help graduates to apply the scientific knowledge gained on the degree in a meaningful real world manner.
Industrial Work Placement
DIT finds employment for each student in a relevant industry for a period of seven months (February – September) during Year 3 of the degree. This is designed to give the student workplace experience and skills and to provide them with further employment prospects.
Module listing
Year One
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Mathematics
- Computational Studies
- Science technology & society
Year Two
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Nanoscience
- Computational Studies
- Mathematics
- Entrepreneurial Studies
Year Three
- Physics Major Option
- Physics (Optics, Electromagnetism, Lasers, Condensed Matter, Quantum Physics)
- Chemistry (Physical Chemistry)
- Nanoscience (Chemical & Spectroscopic Techniques for Nanoscience, Vacuum techniques for Nanoscience)
- Industrial Work Placement
- Chemistry Major Option
- Chemistry (Physical Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Chemistry & Regulatory chemistry)
- Physics (Quantum Physics)
- Nanoscience (Chemical & Spectroscopic Techniques for Nanoscience, Vacuum techniques for Nanoscience)
- Industrial Work Placement
Year Four
- Physics Major Option
- Physics (Electronics, Thermal Physics, Nuclear radiation & Non-ionising Radiation, Quantum Physics of Solids, Lasers & Optical Communications,)
- Chemistry (Surface & Photochemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, chemical control & environmental legislation)
- Nanoscience (Semiconductor & Molecular Nanostructs. & Devices, Advanced Nanotechnology Topics)
- Professional development skills (Invention, Innovation & commercialisation)
- Nanotechnology Research Project
- Chemistry Major Option
- Chemistry (Surface & Photochemistry, Separation Science & Hyphenated Techniques, Advanced Analysis & polymer chemistry, Pharmaceutical Analysis & Drug Delivery, chemical control & environmental legislation)
- Physics (Electronics, Quantum Physics of Solids)
- Nanoscience (Semiconductor & Molecular Nanostructs. & Devices, Advanced Nanotechnology Topics)
- Professional development skills (Invention, Innovation & commercialisation)
- Nanotechnology Research Project
Entry Requirements
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Minimum no of |
Minimum Grade in |
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Subjects |
Honours |
Maths |
English/Irish |
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6 |
2 |
OB3 |
OD3 |
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Other Requirements At least HC3 in one of: Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Physics & Chemistry, Biology, Agricultural Science, Engineering, Technical Drawing, Technology or Design and Communication Graphics |
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Further information
School of Physics
T: 01 402 2856 (Dr. Gordon Chambers)
F: 01 402 4988
