BSc (Hons) Chemistry and Human Biology

Astrophysics is active wherever the laws of physics are being tested to the limit – and beyond. Keele will help you use astronomical observations, mathematical models, and computer simulations 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 are committed to supporting you throughout your studies, providing you flexible access to our staff to seek advice or feedback. This course will provide you with a broad education in the core areas of forensic science. Your studies may explore key topics in forensic chemistry, analytical science, forensic biology, and criminalistics science. You will develop your analytical science skills, enabling you to analyze a variety of evidence. This is complemented by an additional emphasis on professional practice and an understanding of the roles of the crime scene investigator and the forensic scientist as expert witnesses in the court.

Year 1

COMPULSORY MODULES

• Mechanics, Gravity, and Relativity
• Nature of matter
• Oscillations and Waves
• Electricity and Stellar Structure
• Forensic Chemistry and Analysis
• Forensic Identification and Investigation

Year 2

COMPULSORY MODULES

• Quantum Mechanics
• Optics and Thermodynamics
• Stellar Astrophysics
• Statistical Mechanics and Solid State Physics
• Forensic Genetics
• Spectroscopy and Advanced Analysis
• Criminalistic Methods
• Drugs of Abus

Year 3

COMPULSORY MODULES

• Electromagnetism
• Astrophysics Group Project and Science Communication – ISP
• Evaluation of evidence, explosives, and arson
• Forensic Science Team Research Project – ISP
• Forensic Toxicology

OPTIONAL MODULES

• Binary Stars and Extrasolar Planets
• Data Analysis and Model Testing
• Particle Physics and Accelerators
• Cosmology
• Life in the Universe
• Quantum Mechanics II
• General Relativity, Black Holes, and Gravitational Waves
• Advanced Topics in Forensic Analysis
• Forensic Geoscience

Employability

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 recognize that the versatility and flexibility of astrophysics mean that graduates possess a wide range of very valuable skills, from independent and critical thinking to the solving of sophisticated problems.

Jobs that a graduate of this course could go on to do:

• Research Scientist
• Geophysicist
• Science Teacher
• HE Lecturer
• Medical Physicist
• Operational Researcher
• Software Engineer
• Radiation Practitioner
• Forensic Scientist
• Scene of Crime Officer
• Scientific Laboratory Technician
• Analytical Chemist
• Police Officer
• Scientific Publishing