BSc (Hons) Astrophysics and Computer Science with International or Placement Year

Studying Astrophysics and Computer Science BSc provides you with the scope to develop your expertise in two fascinating areas.

In 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?' These are questions that astrophysics helps you discover the answer to.

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.

As you progress, you will build on your existing knowledge in familiar core areas of astrophysics including mechanics, relativity, nature of matter, gravitation, electricity, oscillations, and waves. You will also focus on areas like the basics of stellar structure and stellar astrophysics. Later in your degree you will get the opportunity to study at a deeper level topics such as electromagnetism, cosmology, black holes and gravitational waves in different modules.

In your final year you will be involved in a group project. In recent years these have been based on the analysis of data from NASA's Kepler and Tess missions and Keele's own robotic observatory in South Africa. The projects often contribute to the research conducted within the Keele astrophysics group.

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.

We also provide you with the opportunity to align your Astrophysics and Computer Science BSc to your career aspirations and interests by choosing from a variety of optional modules in your final year.

From a year working in industry to paid internships, summer research projects and practical modules, there are many opportunities available throughout the computer science curriculum to develop and enhance your practical skills. Paid or voluntary experience in your area of interest within computer science will not only demonstrate your commitment and passion, but will also enable you to make meaningful connections by networking with experts in the field.