Computer Science and Geology

Computer Science and Geology - BSc (Hons)

From developing key geological observation and interpretation skills, to learning how to model data and create software, combing Computer Science and Geology will equip you with the applied problem solving and practical skills to tackle the world's geological challenges and pursue a wide range of careers.

Year of entry

2023 - for 2022 entry see here

Course type

Combined Honours

Location

Keele University campus

Subject area / School

School of Computer Science and Mathematics

UCAS code

FG64

Duration of study

3 years / 4 years with international or placement year

Enquire about this course Book an open day Chat to students

Why study Computer Science and Geology at Keele University?

Accreditation pathway available in Geology

Use a wide variety of equipment including supercomputer facilities, a VR lab and a Maker Space

Our unique 600-acre campus offers a fantastic experimentation environment to perform fieldwork

Develop your practical skills in Keele's state-of-the-art Central Science Laboratories (CSL)

Course overview

Choosing Computer Science and Geology will give you the opportunity to develop a breadth of knowledge and a wide range of skills in two fascinating subjects. Initial modules are designed to bring everyone up to speed and you will learn the key themes that underpin each discipline. In Computer Science you will explore the fundamentals of programming, computing and gain the professional skills required for effective academic study. In Geology you will gain an understanding of geoscience topics such as the Earth's structure, minerals and rocks and paleontology.

Building on the knowledge you have learnt in both subjects, in years two and three you will explore advanced core modules in topics such as software engineering, petrology and fieldwork techniques - including two major field courses. To add breadth to your learning, you will also have the opportunity to choose modules that align with your career aspirations or interests. The programme will culminate with the opportunity to unleash your creativity and apply the techniques you have acquired throughout your studies by completing a final year geology field project and a computer science project.

Sector-leading in sustainability education

At Keele we're leading the sector in sustainability, not just in our ambitions to become carbon neutral by 2030 but also through our teaching and our ground-breaking research into climate change and renewable technologies. In 2021 we were awarded the prestigious title of Global Sustainability Institution of the Year (International Green Gown Awards 2021.
Our Geology courses are strongly aligned to the role of geoscience in the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.

Find out more about Keele’s commitment to sustainability

Fieldwork

Fieldwork is an essential component of a geology degree, it provides the opportunity to relate the theory and practical activities covered in class to a natural laboratory.
Fieldwork is embedded into core modules throughout your studies to help you acquire key geological observation and interpretation skills. It's also a great way to foster connections with academics and peers and apply your learning to real-world situations.

Fieldwork activities may include:

Studying the main rock types and their geological structures
Mapping and classification of geological structures
Interpreting and analysing geological information from aerial photographs
Producing geological maps and properly structured geological reports
Designing and interpreting appropriate near-surface geophysical surveys for an environmental or geotechnical investigation
Interpreting an environment of deposition
Using geographical information system and remote sensing techniques to visualise and analyse geoscience data

In previous years our students have undertaken field courses in the UK to Pembrokeshire, the Peak District, Snowdonia, Mull in western Scotland and overseas destinations including Almeria in Spain and southern Italy.

Learn from our campus - our own 'living laboratory'

Our unique 600-acre campus offers a fantastic experimentation environment to perform fieldwork, test new ideas and discover solutions to real-world problems. From our lake system and extensive woodlands to the mining and industrial heritage of the local area, there are many opportunities to study in an authentic environment whilst practicing sustainably.

Spend a year in industry

In an increasingly competitive job market, employers are seeking to recruit employees who have high-level knowledge, skills and an understanding of the workplace. Between years two and three of your degree, there is the opportunity to spend a year gaining practical experience with a computing or geologically-focussed company or organisation. This will benefit you by allowing you to familiarise yourself with the professional working environment and the opportunity to apply the skills and theories you have learnt.

International year

In between years two and three of your studies you may choose to spend a year studying abroad. This exciting opportunity will enable you to experience different cultural perspectives and establish international networks. It also shows you have the personal attributes to embrace new experiences, which can enhance your employability.
We offer exchange opportunities with a wide variety of partner institutions.

Support

We offer a multi layered student support structure to help you meet your academic and personal needs. You will benefit from the guidance of an academic mentor and access to Keele's Student Experience and Support team. In the Computer Science component of the programme, experienced students and doctoral researchers usually run help-desk sessions to provide support especially when exam and coursework deadlines get closer.

Societies

We have a wealth of student-led societies which cover a diverse range of interests. Joining a society is a great opportunity to continue to develop your skills away from your studies. This is another excellent way of demonstrating your genuine interest for the area and can be beneficial when it comes to applying for graduate roles.

Next Steps

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Related courses

Accreditation and professional recognition

This programme is accredited by the Geological Society of London

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Additional opportunities

Foundation year Placement year International year Study abroad Explore more

There are a range of additional opportunities available when studying this course.
Please note, undertaking one may impact upon the availability of another.

Entry requirements

Keele strives to be a place where learning, living and working is a positive experience for our entire community, and we're committed to ensuring equality of opportunity to all our applicants with the potential and motivation to succeed, regardless of background. That's why we operate a range of 'alternative offer' schemes with clear eligibility criteria, including contextual offers, offers for those studying within the Keele region, and recognising a range of additional qualifications in your offer.

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 and International students.

A Level requirements

GCSE requirements

Mathematics at C (or 4) if not taken at A Level
English Language/Literature at C (or 4)

BTEC

International Baccalaureate

29 points

Access to HE Diploma requirements

Obtain Access to Higher Education Diploma with 112 UCAS Tariff points including 15 Level 3 credits at Distinction.

Please note

Reformed GCSE grades for England are stated in brackets

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.

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.

Next Steps

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"Studying at Keele has given me the confidence to take on challenges and step outside of my comfort zone. The small class sizes and constant support from staff has enabled me to take my learning to a deeper level and develop a wider skill set."

Cassidy, Computer Science

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Studying Geology at Keele

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Your future career

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

You will graduate with a strong set of transferable skills suited to a range of different sectors including IT, energy, environmental, engineering, education, and consultancy.

Careers related to the Computer Science component of this degree include:

AI Data Analyst
Big Data Engineer
Cyber Security Analyst
DevOps engineer
Forensic Computer Analyst
Games Developer
Information Systems Manager
IT Consultant
Multimedia Programmer
Network Engineer
Research Scientist
Software Engineer
Systems Analyst
UX Designer

Careers related to the Geology component of this degree include:

Basin analyst
Exploration geologist
Geochemist
Geoenvironmental engineer
Geological engineer
Geological surveyor
Geophysicist
Hydrogeologist
Mineral surveyor
Seismologist
Survey geologist
Teacher/Lecturer
Volcanologist

Geology graduates are likely to be in high demand. Our modern society requires increasing amounts of energy, raw materials and other resources in which the vast majority are discovered by geoscientists. You will graduate with a strong set of transferable skills suited to a range of different sectors including energy, environmental, engineering, education, and consultancy.

To become a chartered geologist, you will need to gather professional experience after gaining your degree to then apply for Chartered Geologist (CGeol) status.
Your accredited degree may give you a head-start by reducing the number of years' experience you will need for chartered status.

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

Next Steps

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Teaching, learning and assessment

Teaching and assessment in Computer Science

Interactive learning

We embrace a modern approach to learning that includes a balanced mixture of immersive lectures and lab-based sessions. Each taught module will include traditional lectures with all supporting material provided via our virtual learning environment and our labs also offer remote accessibility. Learning and teaching methods used on the programme vary according to the subject matter and level of the module.

Teaching methods include:

Group project sessions
Practical sessions
Traditional lectures
Tutorials
Web-based learning

Assessments in Computer Science

Assessments are formulated to represent real world use cases and problems and to challenge your knowledge of the subject matters in realistic scenarios. Teaching staff pay particular attention to specifying clear assessment criteria and providing timely, regular and constructive feedback.

Assessment methods may include:

Class tests
Coursework
Dissertations
Project reports
Short reports
Unseen examinations
Video and oral presentations

Teaching and assessment in Geology

We offer a personalised learning experience in an environment where you can feel part of a community. Our smaller class sizes will enable you to gain individual attention from your lecturers, forge close connections with other students and study in a focused environment. To ensure you receive a high-quality learning experience, teaching will be delivered through a diverse range of methods. Some classes are taught in workshop format integrating both lecture and practical material.

Methods of teaching include:

Directed reading
Field courses
Group presentations
Independent study
Individual progress interviews
Lectures
Practical classes
Project work
Use of e-learning/the Keele Learning Environment
Workshops

Assessment in Geology

The programme includes a range of assessments to develop both academic and employability skills. These include:

Coursework
Dissertations
End-of-semester class tests
Essays
Field-course assessments
In-class and online tests
Literature reviews
Oral presentations
Posters
Reflective diaries
Technical reports

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Central Science Laboratories

Develop your practical skills in Keele's state-of-the-art Central Science Laboratories

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Facilities

Central Science Laboratories

Our Central Science Laboratories allow us to innovate and enhance the teaching experience of our students and supports a highly tailored approach to practical learning.

You will benefit from dedicated computational space and state-of-the-art laboratory space and equipment including 80 new polarising microscopes and 20 new low powered microscopes.

The School of Computer Science and Mathematics

During your studies you will have access to a suite of facilities within the School of Computer Science and Mathematics. These include;

Seven computer laboratories (remote access available)
A high-performance cluster of computers (used for research and projects)
A dedicated gaming lab (The Overclockers Lab)
Robotics facilities (Maker Space)

You will also have the opportunity to gain out of hours entry to the building that houses the School's computer laboratories (subject to the request, approval and collection of a key fob).

The School of Geography, Geology and the Environment

Facilities you will have access to in the School of Geography, Geology and the Environment include:

Ice laboratory

Our ice lab features a dedicated freezer laboratory for water and ice samples from polar environments. IceLab research is driven by the need to understand and develop new methods, such as analysis of ice core ‘biomarkers’, within polar environments in order to inform on key questions surrounding global ocean and atmospheric change, sea ice variability, and humanity’s role in polar ecological change.

We also have geochemistry, water chemistry and sediment laboratories, where you can conduct geochemical analysis and experiments, measure physical and chemical properties of water and analyse the compositional properties of sediments.

Weather station

Keele's weather station provides valuable data locally, nationally and for teaching and research in the school. This includes data for wind speed and direction, rainfall, humidity, sunshine/radiation, air and ground temperatures.

Foundation year

Our Foundation Year provides an excellent alternative route to Keele, providing a unique opportunity to better prepare for your chosen degree, and with guaranteed entry onto your undergraduate course once you successfully complete your Foundation Year.

This extra year of study can improve your academic skills, expand your subject knowledge, give you a better understanding of higher education and, perhaps most importantly of all, build your confidence.

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 undergraduate community from the outset, with access to all the facilities and support that you'd get as an undergraduate student at Keele.

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:

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.

The Keele Foundation Year is a two semester programme which provides a tailored pre-degree programme of study to better prepare you for the BSc (Hons) Computer Science and Geology degree. For example, Foundations of Computational Theory and Programming will introduce you to the key principles of Computer Science and programming, while Advancing Programming will allow you to hone these skills in an individual project, all of which will be useful in your degree and professional career. Meanwhile, the Foundations of Geography, Geology and the Environment module will provide knowledge of the basic underlying principles and concepts associated with the origins, evolution and structure of the Earth as a system. 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 modules

FYO-00275	Foundations of Computational Theory and Programming	15 credits
FYO-00211	Foundations of Numerical and Quantitative Methods for Scientists	15 credits
FYO-00193	Foundations of Geography, Geology and the Environment	15 credits
FYO-00185	Practical and Academic Skills in Science	15 credits

Semester two modules

FYO-00225	Advancing Programming	15 credits
FYO-00227	Advancing Computing: Client-Led Collaborative Design	15 credits
FYO-00195	Advancing Geography, Geology and the Environment	30 credits

Entry requirements

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

Applicants will need to apply for BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Foundation Year (UCAS code: G401) 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.

Our International Foundation Year is delivered on campus through Keele University International College (KUIC). Find out more about the International Foundation Year options on the KUIC website.

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