Geology 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.Studying a combined honours degree will include some modules from both of the single honours degrees. In this case, your programme will be made up of a combination of modules from both Geology and Physics.For the Geology element of the course, you will examine the Earth, its structure, formation, composition, history, processes, resources, hazards and materials. It looks at rocks, minerals and fossils, how they were formed, how they can be exploited as a resource, and what they can tell us about the history of the Earth. It also covers geological processes such as earthquakes, volcanoes and plate tectonics.Geology is a practical subject with applied problem-solving laboratory classes and field courses where you will learn how to interpret and map geological features, and explore for future geological resources. This course provides a diverse range of specialist options. We focus particularly on applied research skills: you will learn to collect, analyse and interpret different types of geological data, and to carry out your own research using specialist software and equipment. Furthermore, you will complete a comprehensive and integrated UK and overseas fieldwork programme with no cost options.When taking Physics as part of a Combined Honours degree, 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. Your 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. The National Student Survey has commended the sense of community that our students feel.As part of a Combined Honours degree, Physics at Keele prepares 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; take on roles that are not directly related to physics such as in management or public services; or you might branch out to become a science writer, chartered accountant or IT consultant.