A new degree option in "the physics and chemistry of advanced materials" begins at Trinity College Dublin next October. The new course will provide a flexible qualification for employment in "cutting-edge" high technology industries, with a strong emphasis on laser materials. There will be 20 places, along with five entrance scholarships for the degree, valued at £1,000 each, which will be awarded based on the results of the second-level examinations.

Students may apply for the course, coded TR076, by using the CAO "change of mind" procedure before July 1st. The course has specific Leaving Cert subject requirements. Students getting a grade C or above at ordinary-level maths must also achieve a grade C or above at higher level in two of the following subjects: chemistry, physics, physics/ chemistry, biology or agricultural science, applied maths. Students with a grade C or above at higher-level maths need only have a C or above at higher level in one subject from the same list.