Astrophysics and Forensic Science

Course overview

At Keele, studying a combined honours degree will include some modules from both of the single honours degrees. In this case, your programme will be made up of a combination of modules from both Astrophysics and Forensic Science.

Key facts

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David McGhee, Astrophysics with Business Management (2015)

"My job utilises the skills I developed as an astrophysics undergraduate at Keele University to identify and solve complex problems."

Emily Sage, Astrophysics with Mathematics (2012)

"I also have to draw on the analytical skills developed through my degree at Keele as I have to analyse trial data in order to produce technical reports."

Mark Clowes, Astrophysics with English (2008)

"A high attention to detail, good numeracy and scientific and technical skills are very important. The work is very varied and the ability to rapidly solve new problems is a skill that studying astrophysics certainly prepared me for. "

Greg Iceton, Physics with Astrophysics (2007)

"Understanding the scientific and technical descriptions of patents is essential (however, this comes with experience on the job). A 2.1 degree is usually necessary to enter into the profession."

Dr Rachel Sparks, Physics and Astrophysics (2007)

"A background in physics is essential, including a BSc & PhD. For my current research the required components are a good understanding of computational physics, quantum mechanics and condensed matter theory. In the future I also hope to bring in some of my astrophysics knowledge to expand my research area."

Course content

In Astrophysics, you will learn to formulate and tackle problems – from below the level of the atomic nucleus to astronomical scales. Astrophysics is active wherever the laws of physics are being tested to the limit – and beyond. Keele will help you to use astronomical observations, mathematical models and computer simulation to develop theories explaining some of the most complex phenomena.

You’ll develop your mathematics and computing skills, and apply them to solving a range of problems in the laboratory and beyond (you’ll have access to Keele’s own on-site observatory). We operate an open-door policy, which enables you to have excellent and flexible access to staff to seek advice or feedback on their work.

This combined course is accredited by the Institute of Physics.

For the Forensic Science element of the course, you will gain an in-depth understanding of forensic science, taught by academics and forensic professionals, as well as gaining valuable lab and crime scene experience, helping you to stay ahead in this fast-moving science. You will be taught in our modern laboratory facilities and have access to state of the art equipment and our dedicated Crime Scene House. Our forensic science combined honours programmes are recognised by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences.

Forensic Science 2nd in Complete University Guide

This course will provide you with a broad education in the core areas of forensic science. Your studies will focus on key topics in forensic chemistry, analytical science, forensic biology and criminalistics science. You will develop your analytical science skills, enabling you to analyse a variety of forensic of evidence. This is complemented by additional emphasis on professional practice and an understanding of the roles of the crime scene investigator and the forensic scientist as an expert witness in the court. You may be able to study abroad for a semester (dependant on subject scheduling) or year at one of our partner universities.

Career prospects

96% of Keele graduates were in a job or further study within six months of graduating (DLHE, 2017)

An Astrophysics degree from Keele will prepare you for many different careers, which need not be directly related to astrophysics. You could take up all sorts of roles in industry, management, and public services, including teaching, health and finance. Many employers recognise that the versatility and flexibility of astrophysics means that graduates possess a wide range of very valuable skills, from independent and critical thinking to the solving of sophisticated problems.

Equipped with key scientific skills, practical experience and vital communication, team working and problem-solving abilities, you will become an independent scientist who will offer a great deal to prospective employers. Graduates have progressed to a range of different careers, including, within the forensic science sector, analytical laboratories, and teaching.

Our dedicated and supportive approach to teaching, coupled with excellent modern laboratories and industry standard equipment, mean that you will graduate with both a sound theoretical understanding of forensic investigations and their wider context, and relevant practical experience across a range of analytical and forensic techniques. Our teaching strategy is designed to enable you to become an independent scientist and critical thinker who will have a great deal to offer prospective employers.

Recent employers

2030 Labs LTD
Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board
North Yorkshire Police
Sandwell and Dudley Hospital
Nottinghamshire Health
Edmundson Electrical
Vitalograph Ltd
Bet365

Jobs that a graduate of this course could go on to do:

Research Scientist
Geophysicist
Science Teacher
HE Lecturer
Medical Physicist
Operational Researcher
Software Engineer
Radiation Practitioner
Forensic Scientist
Scene of Crime Officer
Toxicologist
Microbiologist
Scientific Laboratory Technician
Analytical Chemist

Regardless of which career you pursue after Keele, employers will want evidence of the range of skills and personal qualities you possess and which are required for the job. Your degree is clearly important in this respect but don’t forget the extra-curricular activities, positions of responsibility, jobs and voluntary work you may have been engaged in while studying at Keele. These activities allow you to demonstrate the skills and personal qualities required by employers and will be vital in your attempts to secure graduate employment.
It is estimated that 60% of jobs are open to graduates of any discipline. This demonstrates the flexibility of many graduate employers when setting out their academic requirements and that students are not necessarily restricted to careers related to their degree.

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