Astrophysics and Computer Science - BSc (Hons)
Discover more about the nature of our Universe and learn the tools and skills to develop future software systems on our Astrophysics and Computer Science BSc. This course will equip you with the advanced critical thinking, mathematical and problem-solving skills to prepare you for a variety of exciting career opportunities.
Year of entry
- 2023
Course type
- Combined Honours
Location
Subject area / School
UCAS code
- FG54
Duration of study
- 3 years / 4 years with international or placement year
Why study Astrophysics and Computer Science at Keele University?
Course overview
Studying Astrophysics and Computer Science BSc provides you with the scope to develop your expertise in two fascinating areas.
In astrophysics you will apply physics to understanding how the universe works and possibly explore questions like 'is there an Earth-like planet around another star'? 'Is there a black hole at the centre of every galaxy?' And 'why is the expansion of the Universe accelerating?' These are questions that astrophysics helps you discover the answer to.
Computer Science is informed by research and our content is kept up-to-date thanks to close interaction with our Industry Advisory Board. You will learn the key themes that underpin contemporary computer science, from programming best practices to the use of the latest tools and technology.
Astrophysics will give you the quantitative and analytic skills needed for analysing data and solving problems and is underpinned by a core physics curriculum as set out by the Institute of Physics. This includes the fundamentals of classical and quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, optics, thermodynamics, solid state, atomic and nuclear physics, together with the mathematics that is used to describe them. We have our own observatory here at Keele that students on this combined honours programme can get involved with on a volunteer basis with the potential to learn some astronomical techniques.
As you progress, you will build on your existing knowledge in familiar core areas of astrophysics including mechanics, relativity, nature of matter, gravitation, electricity, oscillations, and waves. You will also focus on areas like the basics of stellar structure and stellar astrophysics. Later in your degree you will get the opportunity to study at a deeper level topics such as electromagnetism, cosmology, black holes and gravitational waves in different modules.
In your final year you will be involved in a group project. In recent years these have been based on the analysis of data from NASA's Kepler and Tess missions and Keele's own robotic observatory in South Africa. The projects often contribute to the research conducted within the Keele astrophysics group.
On our computer science modules you will explore the fundamental concepts and techniques for object-oriented programming. Initial modules are designed to bring everyone up to speed, regardless of the starting level of coding experience, and to provide a gentle introduction to the skills required for effective academic study. You will then move on to learn advanced programming concepts that can be applied in areas such as games programming, mobile app and web development, artificial intelligence and cyber security, not disregarding the human aspect of Computer Science thanks to the focus on user interaction and user interface design, software engineering methodologies (SCRUM, Agile) and cutting edge research in AI and machine learning.
We also provide you with the opportunity to align your Astrophysics and Computer Science BSc to your career aspirations and interests by choosing from a variety of optional modules in your final year.
Gain experience in industry
From a year working in industry to paid internships, summer research projects and practical modules, there are many opportunities available throughout the computer science curriculum to develop and enhance your practical skills. Paid or voluntary experience in your area of interest within computer science will not only demonstrate your commitment and passion, but will also enable you to make meaningful connections by networking with experts in the field.
International year
In between years two and three of your studies you can choose to spend a year studying abroad. This exciting opportunity enables you to experience different cultures and to 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 robust 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. Our open-door policy enables you to engage with your lecturers directly, meaning you can seek support, gain feedback, or discuss any matters relating to your studies on a regular basis. In addition to this, in the computer science component of your studies, experienced students and doctoral researchers usually run help-desk sessions especially when exam and coursework deadlines get closer.
Societies
We have a wealth of student-led societies here at Keele which cover a diverse range of interests. Joining a society related to astrophysics or computer science is a great opportunity to continue to develop your computing, web design or multimedia 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. It’s also a great way to meet like-minded people, make friends and share interests with fellow students.
Committed to equality, diversity and inclusion
Keele University strives to be a place where learning, living and working is a positive experience for all. Equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) are core values underpinning the University’s mission to making a difference in society by providing innovative, high-quality education for students from all backgrounds and by undertaking world-leading research that transforms understanding and brings benefit to society, communities and individuals.
We embrace this approach and will actively aim to ensure that all our activities will be organised so that everyone is made to feel safe and welcome, and that diversity is encouraged. We believe that this attitude is vital to help everyone flourish and feel valued for who they are. To achieve this, we promote fair treatment for all, irrespective of gender identity, age, disability, sexual orientation, relationship status, caring responsibilities, race, religion or belief.
Our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) agenda is embedded throughout our curriculum, and the School of Computer Science and Mathematics are proud to hold an Athena SWAN Bronze Award in recognition for activities in this area.
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Related Courses
Accreditation and professional recognition
This programme is accredited by the Institute of Physics, unless you specialise in Computer Science in your final year, in which case there is no accreditation available.
Additional opportunities
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
The following section details our typical entry requirements for this course for a range of UK and international qualifications. If you don’t see your qualifications listed, please contact us to find out if we can accept your qualifications. 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.
Additional information
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.
GCSE requirements
- Maths at C (or 4)
- English Language or English Literature at C (or 4)
BTEC
- BTEC requirements DMM
- You must have taken sufficient Physics and Mathematics units, please contact us for advice
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 above or Higher Level Maths at 6 or above plus Higher Level Physics at 4 or above.
Access to HE Diploma requirements
- 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 units, please contact us for advice.
English Language Requirements
All of our courses require an English language qualification or test. For most students, this requirement can be met with a 4 or C in GCSE English. Please see our English Language guidance pages for further details, including English language test information for international students. For those students who require an English language test, this course requires a test from .
Alternative and contextual offers
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.
General information
The entry grades outlined in this section indicate the typical offer 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.
"As a Fraud Analyst, I use the skills I developed as an astrophysics undergraduate to identify and solve complex problems"
"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."
Central Science Laboratories
Develop your practical skills in Keele's state-of-the-art Central Science Laboratories
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.
The information in this Foundation Year section is for UK/Home applicants. Where an international Foundation Year is available, please see the 'Information for international students' tab.
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.
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) Astrophysics and Computer Science degree. For example, in the Advancing Programming module you will learn some advanced techniques appropriate to the programming language, whilst 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. 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 Module
| FYO-00275 | Foundations of Computational Theory and Programming | 15 credits |
| FYO-00215 | Foundations of Mathematical Methods | 15 credits |
| FYO-00205 | Foundations of Physics | 15 credits |
| FYO-00185 | Practical and Academic Skills in Science | 15 credits |
Semester Two Module
| FYO-00225 | Advancing Programming | 15 credits |
| FYO-00227 | Advancing Computing: Client-Led Collaborative Design | 15 credits |
| FYO-00209 | Advancing Physics | 15 credits |
| FYO-00231 | Advancing Mathematical Methods | 15 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.
The information in this Foundation Year section is for UK/Home applicants. Where an international Foundation Year is available, please see the 'Information for international students' tab.
We also offer a January start for some of our Foundation Year courses. Adopting a blended learning approach, the January start is particularly useful for students wishing to return to education following time out of studying, or who are seeking a flexible approach to their Foundation Year studies. Our January start is available across most of our Science, Humanities, Social Science and Business courses.
Whilst still being a full-time course, our blended delivery model combines live teaching sessions - both online and on-campus - with self-directed study, enabling you to predominantly study at a time that suits your lifestyle. You will benefit from weekly online taught sessions which encourage you to engage with your teachers and peers.
In addition to online study there will be a series of full study days that you will be required to attend throughout each semester. These sessions may include lab-based activities, group work, review of course and assessment materials studied online. They will emphasise opportunities for you to deepen your knowledge and understanding of your chosen route.
Please refer to the September start tab for more information about the entry requirements and what you will study. The modules that you will take on a January start Foundation Year will be similar to those for the September start, but in a slightly different order and pattern.
For more information, including fees, the UCAS code for this course, how to apply, and how you will be taught, please visit our January Start Foundation Year webpage.
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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