Astrophysics and Data Science BSc (Hons)

At Keele University, we’re proud to be consistently ranked in the Top 3 UK universities for student satisfaction, which is testimony to the safe, supportive and welcoming campus we hope you’ll soon call home.From same-day deliveries to self-driving cars, today's global society is powered by AI and big data. This programme will give you a deeper understanding and the practical skills for a career with a significant impact in the modern world; as Astrophysicists seek to understand the universe, from its smallest constituents to the largest possible scales.Our Data Science graduates are trained from first principles in Computer Science and Mathematics. The two disciplines are blended seamlessly throughout your degree. You will study fundamental mathematical and statistical techniques alongside modern software development methods. You will have the opportunity to apply your learning immediately using real-world datasets in our cutting-edge computing laboratories.You will undertake significant development projects, including a final year data science dissertation led by academics with research specialities in artificial intelligence, big data and statistical modelling. Additional modules that cover advanced technical topics such as cloud computing, as well as academic research, industry-focused professional skills and practical problem-solving ensure you are fully equipped for an exciting and intellectually stimulating journey as a Data Scientist.In Astrophysics, you will learn to formulate and tackle problems – from below the level of the atomic nucleus to astronomical scales. 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 operate an open-door policy, which enables you to have excellent and flexible access to staff to seek advice or feedback on your work. This course is enriched by our research interests and international collaborative research programmes.Graduates can go on to work in diverse industries such as finance, healthcare, transport, business intelligence and e-commerce, as well as further academic study. Additional experience of research and self-directed learning gives our students the broader abilities needed to respond to the latest developments in this fast-changing field in the years ahead. Our Data Science degree is also great preparation for employment in related fields including consultancy, software development, accountancy, engineering and teaching.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.