Astrophysics and Computer Science BSc (Hons)

Keele University

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.**Why choose this course?**- Develop your practical skills in Keele's state-of-the-art Central Science Laboratories (CSL) - Enhance your employability by choosing to spend a year gaining work experience in a chemistry-related environment- Access a wide range of equipment in Computer Science including supercomputer facilities, a VR lab and a Maker Space- Accreditation pathway is available for AstrophysicsIn 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?' 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.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.**About Keele**Keele University was established in 1949 by the former Vice-Chancellor of Oxford University. Founded to meet the needs of a changing world, Keele has always had a pioneering vision to be a different kind of university.We excel in both teaching and research, with some of the most satisfied students in England, and research that is changing lives for the better at a regional, national and global level.Our beautiful 600-acre campus is one of the biggest in Britain – but all the most important services and facilities are on your doorstep, with accommodation, teaching spaces, facilities including a medical centre, sports centre and pharmacy, and a range of shops, eateries and entertainment venues – including the Students’ Union – clustered around the centre.