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    Data Science and Neuroscience - BSc (Hons)

    Combine the fascinating complexity of neuroscience with the exciting field of data science to gain new insight into how the brain controls our body. From discovering statistical patterns in large datasets that can contribute to the discovery of cures for illnesses such as Alzheimer's, to creating better simulations of the brain for training neurology students - our Data Science and Neuroscience BSc will equip you with the analytical, problem-solving and computational skills to advance health in a variety of careers.

    Year of entry

    Course type

    • Combined Honours

    UCAS code

    • GB41

    Duration of study

    • 3 years / 4 years with international or placement year
    Book an open day Chat to students

    Why study Data Science and Neuroscience at Keele University?

    Put your learning into practice using real-world data in our state-of-the-art £34m Central Science Laboratories (CSL)
    Gain practical experience of human neural anatomy in Keele Medical School's Anatomy Suite
    All necessary knowledge in mathematics, statistics and coding is provided within relevant modules
    This programme is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology for students who specialise in Neuroscience in their final year
    Engage with our partners in industry to tackle real-world problems

    Course overview

    Studying Data Science and Neuroscience at Keele will give you the opportunity to develop a breadth of knowledge and a wide range of skills in two fascinating subjects.

    Initial modules will provide you with a grounding in the theoretical underpinnings of both disciplines. In Data Science you will explore the fundamental concepts underlying computer programming together with techniques for applying these using a contemporary programming language. You will look at data science and its relationship with business analytics, statistics, machine learning and artificial intelligence and examine the processes techniques used to extract information from raw data.

    In Neuroscience you will explore a mixture of core modules that will provide you with an understanding of the basic biological techniques in addition to an introduction to the core concepts of neuroscience and the practical skills required for a career within the field. During your first and second year, you will take laboratory classes most weeks to develop practical, analytical, observational and interpretative skills. Building on the knowledge you have learnt in both subjects, you will progress to explore advanced topics in your second and third years. From Artificial Intelligence (AI), data visualisation and deep learning to how the brain develops, the mechanisms underlying learning and memory and what can go wrong in terms of brain injury - you will develop the advanced knowledge and skills to carry out your own independent studies.

    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 project. Types of projects you may undertake include; lab-based, systematic reviews, bioinformatics, pedagogic or outreach work. Throughout your project you will be supported and supervised by an academic who has expertise in your chosen area of study.

    Flexibility

    The flexibility of our course enables you to tailor your degree to your individual preferences.
    You may choose to enhance your employability by spending a year in industry or broaden your horizons by spending a year studying abroad at one of our partner institutions. Paid or voluntary experience in your area of interest will not only demonstrate your commitment and passion, but will also enable you to make meaningful connections by networking with experts in the field. From year two, you can also choose from a variety of optional modules. This will enable you to explore subjects that reflect your interests in the field of data science and neuroscience.

    We recognise that your aspirations and interests in data science and neuroscience may develop as you are exposed to the diverse themes throughout the programme. In Data Science we offer you the opportunity to transfer between our programmes before year two of your studies, to give you the time and space to find your passion.

    Student 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.

    In Data Science, experienced students and doctoral researchers usually run help-desk sessions especially when exam and coursework deadlines get closer. In Neuroscience, during practical workshops you will have support from a variety of academic staff. In addition to your lead lecturer you will benefit from the guidance of:

    • Senior demonstrators
    • Postgraduate student demonstrators
    • Laboratory technicians
    • Core skills videos and laboratory simulations
    • Data analysis workshops

    Societies

    We have a wealth of student-led societies at Keele which cover a diverse range of interests. Joining a society related to your degree 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. You may choose to participate in exciting hackathons and competitive programming challenges in the student-led HACK Keele Society, join the talks and activities organised by Keele Neuroscience Society or engage in competitive gaming with the Keele Esports Society.

    Next Steps

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    RELATED COURSES

    Accreditation and professional recognition

    This programme is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology for students who specialise in Neuroscience in their final year. If you choose to specialise in Data Science, there is no accreditation available. 

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    Additional opportunities

    Foundation year Placement year International year 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.

    A Level requirements

    • ABC / BBB
    • One Science A Level (to include Applied Science, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Environmental Science, Food Science/Technology, Further Maths, Geography, Geology, Human Biology, Maths, Physics, Psychology, Sports Science and Statistics)

    GCSE requirements

    • Mathematics at C (or 4)
    • English Language/Literature at C (or 4)

    BTEC

    • DDM in science subject (Please contact the Admissions Team)

    International Baccalaureate

    • 30 points to include one science at Higher Level at 6

    Access to HE Diploma requirements

    • Obtain Access to Higher Education Diploma with 122 UCAS Tariff points including a minimum of 30 Level 3 credits at Distinction. Plus subject specific requirement, please contact the Admissions Team

    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

    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

    • ABC / BBB
    • One Science A Level (to include Applied Science, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Environmental Science, Food Science/Technology, Further Maths, Geography, Geology, Human Biology, Maths, Physics, Psychology, Sports Science and Statistics)

    GCSE requirements

    • Mathematics at C (or 4)
    • English Language/Literature at C (or 4)

    BTEC

    • DDM in science subject (Please contact the Admissions Team)

    International Baccalaureate

    • 30 points to include one science at Higher Level at 6

    Access to HE Diploma requirements

    • Obtain Access to Higher Education Diploma with 122 UCAS Tariff points including a minimum of 30 Level 3 credits at Distinction. Plus subject specific requirement, please contact the Admissions Team

    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.

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    Ryan, Neuroscience and Psychology

    "I gained invaluable experience working in Malaysia on a three month research project which was secured by way of application and interview with the department of Life Sciences. "

    Ryan, Neuroscience and Psychology

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    Fees and funding

    Tuition fees for 2023/24 academic year

    • UK: £9250
    • International: Band 3

    For details of our international fee bands please see our Undergraduate tuition fees web page.

    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.

    Our Student Financial Support team offers confidential advice and guidance to help you to manage your money, so that you can make the most of your time at Keele. We can help you to resolve issues with your Student Finance, create a budget, and help you to explore your options if you’re facing financial hardship. We are also able to ensure that you receive any funding for which you may be eligible, such as bursaries and scholarships.

    For more information visit our undergraduate fees and funding section.

    Next Steps

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    Modules

    Modules for Data Science and Neuroscience

    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, as well as student voice. 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.

    Compulsory Modules

    Compulsory Modules

    Optional Modules

    Compulsory Modules

    Optional Modules

    Next Steps

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    Your future career

    95% of our students are in employment or further study within 15 months of finishing their studies (HESA Graduate Outcomes, 2019/20)

    You will graduate with a strong set of analytical, problem-solving, computational, scientific and research skills suited to a variety of careers. You may also wish to further your knowledge by progressing to postgraduate study.

    Careers and fields related to this degree include:

    • Academia
    • Biotechnology
    • Clinical sciences
    • Data analysis
    • Education
    • Healthcare
    • Machine learning engineer
    • Research
    • Science communication
    • Statistics

    Keele Careers and Employability team

    Our Careers and Employability team (Shortlisted for Best University Careers Employment Service - National Undergraduate Employability Awards, 2021), offer a variety of personal and career development opportunities to enhance your employability. From mock interviews, careers guidance and CV advice, to careers fairs, alumni mentoring and networking events, along with helping you find part-time and graduate employment - the team will support you throughout your studies and beyond.

    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

    You will be taught by research leaders in both mathematics and computer science. Each taught module will include traditional lectures with all support material provided via our virtual learning environment. Depending on the subject matter and level of the module, modules will include practical sessions in our state-of-the-art Central Science Laboratories, tutorials or directed reading, and group project sessions.

    Teaching methods include:

    • Group project sessions
    • Practical sessions
    • Traditional lecturers
    • Tutorials and directed learning
    • Web-based learning

    Assessments

    The wide variety of assessment methods used on this programme at Keele reflects the broad range of knowledge and skills that are developed as you progress through the degree programme.

    Assessment methods include:

    • Class tests
    • Coursework
    • Dissertations
    • Oral presentations
    • Short reports
    • Unseen examinations

    Teaching and assessment in Neuroscience

    In neuroscience you will benefit from a hybrid delivery of teaching - online learning and in-person practicals. Core content is designed for online consumption and this aims to provide you with the space and flexibility to digest at your own pace and to ask questions anonymously. To complement core virtual learning, laboratory practicals, tutorials, seminars and workshops will take place on-campus.

    Methods of teaching include:

    • Laboratory practicals
    • Live, campus-based tutorials, seminars and workshops
    • Online lectures

    Assessment

    From creating patient information leaflets to writing wiki entries, the assessment methods utilised aim to give you experience of work-related activities you will likely undertake in graduate roles.

    Methods of assessment include:

    • Blogs or oral presentations
    • Final year independent research project
    • Laboratory reports or experimental projects
    • Patient information leaflets
    • Scientific posters
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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

    In Data Science, teaching will take place in Keele’s state-of-the-art Central Science Laboratories (CSL) and the Colin Reeves Building - home to the School of Computer Science and Mathematics.

    During your studies you will have access to a suite of facilities. 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).

    Neuroscience facilities

    Our Central Science Laboratories house computational teaching facilities and multiple analytical suites that include industry apparatus routinely employed in Neuroscience labs worldwide. This includes use of electroencephalogram apparatus for measuring brain activity, electrodes for measuring electrical impulses in nerves, light microscopes for studying neuroanatomy and spectrophotometers and plate readers for assessing biochemical activity.

    The CSL will also make a significant contribution to the Global Health Initiative at Keele, and will be home to researchers working on neurological disorders including Parkinson’s disease, spinal injury, oncology, viral infections and carbohydrate biochemistry.

    Research

    Keele is a research-led university which means your lecturers are actively conducting research at the forefront of their areas of expertise. Research specialisms in Data Science and Neuroscience span a wide remit and feed into modules in the latter years of the programme.

    Research themes include:

    • Auditory neuroscience and deafness
    • Autoimmune disease
    • Artificial intelligence
    • Cancer
    • Computational and probabilistic tools and algorithms to simulate problems in applied science and engineering
    • Computational approaches for solving inverse problems for imaging and ensuring safety and security.
    • Computer vision
    • Evolutionary robotics
    • Glycobiology and immunology
    • Health and cultural informatics
    • Machine learning
    • Molecular biology and ecology of parasites and vector
    • Molecular cell biology of apoptosis and its dysregulation
    • Neurobiology and neuroplasticity
    • Neurodegeneration and regeneration
    • Structural biology

    Find out more about our research in the School of Computer Science and Mathematics and the School of Life Sciences.

    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.

    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 which will be invaluable in your academic studies and beyond. 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) Data Science and Neuroscience degree. For example, For example, the Foundations of Computational Theory and Programming module will introduce you to the key principles of Computer Science and programming. Meanwhile, the Foundations of Life Sciences module looks at basic cell biology in terms of structure and function and goes on to examine how cells obtain their energy for example, by photosynthesis, and raw materials, for example via the nitrogen cycle.

    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-00275 Foundations of Computational Theory and Programming 15 credits
    FYO-00197 Foundations of Life Sciences 15 credits
    FYO-00211 Foundations in Numerical and Quantitative Methods for Scientists 15 credits
    FYO--00185 Practical and Academic Skills in Science 15credits

    Semester two

    FYO-00225 Advancing Programming 15 credits
    FYO-00199 Advancing Life Sciences 30 credits
    FYO-00227 Advancing Computing: Client-Led Collaborative Design 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 
    • IELTS 5.5 (with 5.5 in all subtests)

    AND

    • GCSE Mathematics at grade 4 (C) or above

    How to apply 

    Applicants should apply through UCAS at www.ucas.com 

    Please apply for the Data Science with Foundation Year course (G422). Following the submission of your application you will be contacted by a member of our team to confirm your second subject.

    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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