| The award | How you will study | Study duration | Course start | Domestic course fees | International course fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BSc (Hons) | Full-time | 3 - 4 years | - | - | - |
From quarks to quasars, our Physics with Astrophysics programme combines a strong foundation in core physics principles with the study of cutting-edge astrophysics topics. With opportunities for advanced project work using astronomical data from world-class ground-based and satellite missions, as well as practical work at our on-campus observatory, you'll graduate with the problem-solving, experimental, programming and teamworking skills highly sought after by employers across various industries. Course overview Physics and Astrophysics are fundamental sciences. Our quest to unravel how the universe works makes an enormous contribution to other scientific areas and a range of industries - from nuclear energy to data-mining, satellite telecommunications and medical diagnostics.
Featuring a solid foundational core of physics concepts and key expectations, as defined by the Institute of Physics (IoP) accreditation framework , our employability-focused programme invites you to extend and apply these to the arena of astrophysics, engaging with frontier material informed by the interests of our world-class research teams. You will have opportunities for collaborative learning, work and educational placements and practical work at our on-campus observatory. In your first year you will gain a solid grounding in the fundamentals of physics, including gravitation, relativity and matter, electricity, magnetism and waves. You will also begin to develop the skills and practical experience that underpin this programme, including computer programming with python, laboratory work, mathematical skills required to understand and analyse physical phenomena, and the arts of problem-solving and scientific writing.
An introductory module in astronomy explores planets, stars and galaxies, and the tools and techniques that Astronomers use to investigate them. You will make your own measurements at our on-campus observatory. Year two continues to build on your understanding of physics principles with exploration of optics, quantum mechanics and nuclear physics. You will further your laboratory, mathematics, computing and career skills by working on individual experiments and team investigations, building your CV, and gaining important new applied mathematical skills.
A specialist module in astronomy explores how stars and galaxies form and evolve, and how they can be modelled with fundamental physics, mathematics and computation. In your final year, you will apply skills developed during your degree to an independent astrophysics research project. Working on world-class astronomical research material in a small group, and as an individual, you will plan, execute and report your results, including a presentation aimed at potential employers. You will exploit and expand upon the skills portfolio built up in your degree to establish yourself as an astrophysicist with all the necessary investigative and professional attributes.
You will further your knowledge through advanced modules in electromagnetism, solid-state physics, and cosmology, while enhancing your teamwork and project management skills by working on a group report that tackles a real-world issue, aimed at policy-makers. This programme has recently been refreshed, and the new structure is being reviewed by the IoP to ensure continued accreditation. Industry-ready graduates Designed to provide you with the specialist skills you will need as an astrophysicist, our programme has core practical, academic and professional employability modules embedded throughout the curriculum. From hands-on practice in conducting experiments and learning the basics of computer programming, to dedicated career-focused sessions and innovative assessments, we will provide you with a strong foundation of key skills for your future career.
Keele Observatory To apply the theory you have learnt during your studies, practical classes will include time spent in our observatory. Founded in 1962 to host a 31cm refracting telescope dating back to 1874, it has since acquired a 60cm reflecting telescope for research, and undergone significant expansion and refurbishment. Find out more about Keele Observatory . Our experts Research-led teaching is at the heart of our programme.
Our academic staff specialise in two main areas: astrophysics and condensed matter physics, with many performing internationally renowned work in the fields of exoplanets, stellar physics and star formation (both observational and theoretical), nearby galaxies, and the study of soft condensed matter like polymers, biological molecules and of novel two-dimensional materials.? Our research specialisms feed into modules in the latter years of your degree and in your final year of study, you will have the opportunity to work on an individual student project, supervised by a member of academic staff. *We have compared the positivity ratings of all participating UK institutions using the NSS 2025 sector data to determine Keele's position relative to other broad-based universities (i.e. excluding specialist institutions and further education colleges). Astrophysics ranked Top 5 in England (NSS 2025, broad-based universities)* Physics ranked Top 10 in England (NSS 2025, broad-based universities)* Explore frontier topics guided by our world-leading researchers Apply your learning to address physical problems and real-world challenges Gain the problem-solving, experimental, programming and teamworking skills that are highly valued by employers in a broad range of sectors For more details, please see the course page on the Keele website.
Contact Keele University to find course entry requirements.
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As an international student you may require a valid visa to study at Keele University. Read more about the requirements in our Guide to the United Kingdom International Student Visa Requirements.
