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    Astrophysics and Forensic Science - BSc (Hons)

    Year of entry
    2022
    Course type
    Combined Honours
    Duration of study
    3 years / 4 years with international or placement year
    Location
    Keele University campus
    Subject area / School
    School of Chemical and Physical Sciences
    UCAS code
    FF54
    • Entry requirements

      • Keele Undergraduate Enquiries Form

      Please submit your question in the form below and a member our enquiries team will be in touch with you shortly.











      Upon submitting this form, your enquiry will be forwarded on to our enquiries team who will contact you  to answer your question and provide further details about the course that you are interested in.

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      We will never sell your data to a third party. We only ever share data with companies involved in helping us communicate with you or helping us to manage your data (examples include; Online forms, Printers, Postal services, other University partners etc).

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      We will keep your data for the year that you first enquire with us plus 6 subsequent years. This is to ensure that you are legally protected should you have any issues with the use of your data.

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      By selecting no to the preferences above you will have unsubscribed, however, this does not mean that your data has been deleted. If you would like to invoke your right to be forgotten please refer to the section below.

      What to do if I change my mind?

      To change your preferences after you have closed this form, simply reopen the link to this page. For further information about how your data is held, including your right to be forgotten, please contact dpa@keele.ac.uk
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    Course overview

    This programme will be made up of a combination of modules from both Astrophysics and Forensic Science. You will gain an in-depth understanding of forensic science and in astrophysics, you will learn to formulate and tackle problems – from below the level of the atomic nucleus to astronomical scales. 

      Keele Undergraduate Enquiries Form

      Please submit your question in the form below and a member our enquiries team will be in touch with you shortly.











      Upon submitting this form, your enquiry will be forwarded on to our enquiries team who will contact you  to answer your question and provide further details about the course that you are interested in.

      Your Preferences




      What we’re going to do with your data and why?

      We will securely store your data and send you essential information (examples include updates on an application or booking confirmations for events such as Open Days).

      We would also like to send you useful information about studying at University (particularly Keele) and/or the courses that you have shown an interest in. To do this we need your consent and information on which communication channels you would like to hear from us on (please see opt-in boxes above).

      We will never sell your data to a third party. We only ever share data with companies involved in helping us communicate with you or helping us to manage your data (examples include; Online forms, Printers, Postal services, other University partners etc).

      How long are we keeping it?

      We will keep your data for the year that you first enquire with us plus 6 subsequent years. This is to ensure that you are legally protected should you have any issues with the use of your data.

      Unsubscribe

      By selecting no to the preferences above you will have unsubscribed, however, this does not mean that your data has been deleted. If you would like to invoke your right to be forgotten please refer to the section below.

      What to do if I change my mind?

      To change your preferences after you have closed this form, simply reopen the link to this page. For further information about how your data is held, including your right to be forgotten, please contact dpa@keele.ac.uk

    Top 10

    in England for Overall Student Satisfaction NSS 2021 (broad-based public universities)

    Top 10

    for Student Experience Times Good University Guide, 2020

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    Global Sustainability Institution of the Year Green Gown Awards, 2020

    Student testimonials

    Course content

    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 are committed to supporting you throughout your studies, providing you flexible access to our staff to seek advice or feedback.

    For the Forensic Science element of the course, you will be taught by academics and forensic professionals, and gain 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 equipment and our dedicated Crime Scene House.

    This course will provide you with a broad education in the core areas of forensic science. Your studies may explore 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 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.

    Our forensic science combined honours programmes are recognised by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences. 

    This combined course is also accredited by the Institute of Physics.

    Astrophysics can also be studied as a Combined Honours degree in the following combinations:

    Variations to 2020/21 courses

    Entry requirements

    Keele is committed to ensuring equality of opportunity to all our applicants with the potential and motivation to succeed, regardless of background. On that basis we operate a range of 'alternative offer' schemes with clear eligibility criteria.

    The entry grades outlined in this section indicate the likely offer or range of offers which would be made to candidates along with any subject specific requirements. This is for general information only. Keele University reserves the right to vary offer conditions depending upon a candidate’s application. Read more about our undergraduate entry requirements for United Kingdom, European Union and International students.

    A Level requirements

    • A Level requirement BBC
    • A Level Physics or Maths at grade B or above. If Maths is presented without A Level Physics, please contact Admissions.
    • A Level Chemistry or Biology at grade B or above.

    If you don't think you'll meet the entry requirements specified, you may be able to gain entry to this course via a Foundation Year.

    GCSE requirements

    • Maths at C (or 4)
    • English Language or English Literature at C (or 4)

    BTEC

    If you don't think you'll meet the entry requirements specified, you may be able to gain entry to this course via a Foundation Year.

    International Baccalaureate

    • 29 points to include Higher Level Physics at 6 or Higher Level Maths at 6 plus Higher Level Physics at 4 AND Higher Level Chemistry or Biology at 6

    Access Course

    • Obtain Access to Higher Education Diploma with 112 UCAS Tariff points including a minimum of 30 Level 3 credits at Distinction, to include sufficient Maths/Physics and Chemistry/Biology units, please contact us for advice.

     

    PREPARATION PROGRAMMES FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

    International students who do not meet the direct entry requirements for this course have the opportunity to study an International Foundation Year programme.

    These courses are designed to prepare international students to enter into Keele University undergraduate degrees.

    Foundation year

    You may choose to study this course via foundation year.

    If you’re returning to education following a break, wish to study a new subject or don’t have the grades or sufficient equivalent experience for direct entry to this course, a foundation year may be a good option for you.

    Following successful completion (including any additional progression requirements) of the foundation year you can progress on to this course.

    The foundation year offers September starts across all subjects, and January starts across all science, humanities, social sciences and business routes.

    The January intake excludes the Veterinary Medicine and Surgery degree with Foundation Year and other health-related foundation Year degree

    For more details visit our foundation year webpages.

    Foundation year

    Foundation Year Overview

    If you do not meet the requirements for direct entry into the BSc (Hons) Astrophysics and Forensic Science programme, our Foundation Year can provide an alternative route into your degree. 

    Keele University is consistently ranked among the top universities for student satisfaction, and we have over 70 years’ experience of teaching a foundation year to students. On the Keele Foundation Year, you’ll study on campus, joining our community from the outset, and you will have access to a range of support.

    Read on to find out about:

    • Foundation Year indicative modules for the September intake
    • Foundation Year entry requirements
    • How to apply 
    • UCAS code for this course

    The information within this page is for students wishing to start their studies in September. If you would like to start this course in January, please visit our January pages for further details.

    Course Content

    Our Foundation Year allows you to develop your critical thinking, academic reading, writing, and communication study skills along with subject-specific knowledge and skills. Upon meeting the progression criteria and successfully completing our Foundation Year, you will automatically progress into your Keele undergraduate degree with the confidence that you have the skills, and knowledge needed to successfully complete your course.

    Our combined honours foundation year is a two semester programme which provides a tailored pre-degree programme of study to better prepare you for the BSc (Hons) Astrophysics and Forensic Science degree. For example, the Foundations of Physics module will introduce you to the mathematical skills needed to solve problems in physics at level 3 while studying fundamental equations and concepts in classical physics. Meanwhile, the Advancing Chemistry module aims to increase your knowledge and understanding of the principles and concepts of chemistry in a theoretical context, while also demonstrating the application of concepts in a practical environment. All of the modules you take will prove useful in your degree and professional career. Course content has been developed in collaboration with degree teaching teams, so that by the time you begin Year 1, you will be ready to excel at your studies, as the majority of our Foundation Year students do. 

    Find out more about the Keele Foundation Year, including information about teaching and assessment methods by visiting the Foundation Year homepage. 

    Course Structure

    The module details given below are indicative, they are intended to provide you with an idea of the range of subjects that are taught to our current students. The modules that will be available for you to study in future years are prone to change as we regularly review our teaching to ensure that it is up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods. The information presented is therefore not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules available in any given year.

    Semester One

    FYO-00185 Practical and Academic Skills in Science 15 credits
    FYO-00215 Foundations of Mathematical Methods 15 credits
    FYO-00189 Foundations of Chemistry 15 credits
    FYO-00205 Foundations of Physics 15 credits

    Semester Two

    FYO-00209 Advancing Physics 15 credits
    FYO-00231 Advancing Mathematical Methods 15 credits
    FYO-00191 Advancing Chemistry 30 credits

    ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

    The entry grades outlined in this section indicate the likely offer or range of offers which would be made to candidates along with any subject specific requirements. This is for general information only. Keele University reserves the right to vary offer conditions depending upon a candidate’s application. Read more about our undergraduate entry requirements for United Kingdom, European Union and International students.

    • Between 40-56 UCAS points from at least 1 A level/level 3 qualification or equivalent, or
    • Relevant work experience

      AND

    • GCSE English Language at grade 4 (C), or Level 2 Functional Skills, or
    • IELTS 5.5 (with 5.5 in all subtests)

    AND

    • GCSE Mathematics at grade 4 (C) or above 

    How to Apply 

    Students will need to apply for BSc (Hons) Astrophysics with Foundation Year (UCAS code: F513) through UCAS at www.ucas.com. You will then be contacted to confirm your second subject by a member of our team. 

    Direct Entry Students

    If you already have your qualifications, are not expecting any further results and only wish to apply to Keele, please contact the Admissions Office directly.

    International Entry

    International students who do not meet the entry requirements for this integrated foundation year course may be eligible to study an International Foundation Year stand alone preparation course.

    Please visit the International Foundation Year pages for information on how to apply, entry requirements and course details.

    To find additional course information to complement the information on this tab, please view our Foundation Year programme specifications.

    The offer you receive will be determined by your subject and application.

    Fees and funding

    Going to university can be a daunting as well as an exciting experience. It can be difficult to understand the true costs of being a student, as well as the financial support that is available to help you meet those costs.

    We can help you to manage your funds, create a budget and ensure that you receive any funding for which you may be eligible. We also offer financial support such as the Keele University Hardship Fund and emergency loans.

    For more information visit our money, advice and guidance section.

    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.

    Our graduates have entered careers in a range of professional forensic science sectors, including DNA profiling to digital forensics, or as analytical scientists and researchers within the broader business sector, such as chemical analytical consultancies, pharmaceuticals or environmental monitoring.

    Some of our graduates also undertake postgraduate qualifications such as an MSc, PGCE or PhD prior to entering employment.

    Previous 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
    • Scientific Laboratory Technician
    • Analytical Chemist
    • Police Officer
    • Scientific Publishing

    (Please note that further qualifications or training may be required for some of these roles)

    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.

    Find out more about our careers and employability services, including career planning, alumni mentoring, jobs, internships, starting your own business and much more.

    Facilities

    You will be taught in our Central Science Laboratories and Crime Scene House using modern analytical instrumentation which can be viewed on our Forensic Science Facilities and Equipment webpage.

    We have short videos to give you a flavour of the facilities and equipment you will have access to. These can be accessed via the links below:

    • CSL First Floor: This is our laboratory space used for fume hood experimental work. This facility contains modern equipment for a range of forensic science work required to detect, and process evidence, for example analytical balances, centrifuges, rotary evaporators and UV viewing cabinets used in areas of forensic chemistry

    • CSL Dark Rooms: On the ground floor of the Central Science Laboratories building are our imaging suites, these dark room facilities are used for enhancement techniques, for example imaging of latent fingerprints enhanced with fluorescent powders using an alternate light source (Crime-lite light source)

    Additional opportunities

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