Data Science and Physics 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. Studying Physics, you will learn to apply mathematics and computing to formulate and solve a wide range of physical problems.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.Physics is a fundamental, curiosity-driven science that has applications in many other areas of science and a vast range of industries from telecommunications through to medicine and power generation. You will gain an understanding of the subject fundamentals, including quantum mechanics, relativity and electromagnetism, and apply this knowledge to solve problems, plan investigations, analyse results and to report and present your work.This course will be informed by the research interests of staff: primarily astrophysics and condensed matter physics, all of whom contribute to the teaching programme. Regular laboratory sessions enable you to investigate unfamiliar phenomena and develop valuable transferable skills such as scientific writing, programming and presentation. We operate an open-door policy that gives excellent and flexible access to staff in seeking advice and feedback.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.Physics will also prepare you for many different careers. Employers value versatile, numerate graduates who can analyse, investigate and communicate. You could take up roles as a research scientist, medical physicist, geophysicist, software engineer, or teacher; or even take on roles that are not directly related to physics such as in management or public services. You might branch out to become a science writer, chartered accountant or IT consultant. Many of our graduates also go on to physics-related master’s degrees or perform research at a doctoral level.