General
Q: How does Informatics at Sussex compare to other computing departments?
A: We are a department with an excellent reputation at a world-ranking University. In the 2013 Guardian University Guide, we are ranked 4th out of all Computer Science and IT departments in London and the south east of England.
Q: What about the National Student Survey?
A: In the 2012 National Student Survey, our courses achieved up to 90% overall satisfaction.
Q: I am interested in studying for a degree in Informatics at Sussex. How do I apply?
A: You should apply via UCAS. Read Sussex University's guide on how to apply.
Q: Can I change courses within Informatics if I find I prefer one of the other degrees?
A: Yes, up until the start of the 2nd year. We know that your preferences might change when you experience parts of our other degrees, and so the first year of our degrees is largely generic to allow you to change courses between any of our degrees.
Q: Should I apply for more than one degree?
A: If you are unsure about which subject you would like to study or are restricted to this geographical area, then there is no harm in applying for more than one degree at Sussex. However, as we allow a change of course between Informatics degrees in the first year (see FAQ above), there is little point selecting multiple Informatics courses unless you are including Computer Science with a Foundation year. If you want to talk through the options available to you, then please contact us:
E informaticsoffice@sussex.ac.uk
T +44 (0)1273 678195
Q: What qualifications do I need?
A: We accept a wide range of qualifications. For those qualifications in the UCAS system of tariff points you will need 320 points (that’s ABB in terms of A-level grades) as well as a B in GCSE mathematics.
We also offer a Foundation Year, which is particularly suitable for mature candidates with appropriate experience or evidence of personal development and an interest in Computing, but who lack the formal qualifications for entry direct into Year 1. For these applicants who can demonstrate competence an interest in computing, there are no formal requirements apart from a B in GCSE maths. The foundation year can also be used as an alternative to A-level retakes for recent school leavers who have under-performed; however, to be accepted onto the course, school-leavers will still need to demonstrate evidence of academic ability and the potential to succeed, and we would normally expect grades from these students of at least A-level CCC standard as well as B in GCSE maths.
See our prospectus for more details and equivalent/ international qualifications
Q: Do you require a mathematics qualification?
A: We don’t stipulate mathematics as part of our offer although it may be good to have a 'numerate' (mathematics or a science) qualification if you are thinking of studying computing at degree level. (But note that we do require GCSE — or equivalent — in Mathematics, grade B).
Q: What sort of subjects do you look for?
A: In general, a good grade in a numerate subject (e.g. mathematics or physics) is helpful, and Computer Science or IT can be good indicators of interest in the subject (although they are not essential). A mix of arts and sciences can be very appropriate especially for some degree programmes such as Games and Multimedia Environments, and Computing for Digital Media.
Q: What happens to my application?
A: Our subject selectors normally make a recommendation on whether to make an offer on the basis of your predicted/actual grades and your UCAS form, although we may ask for supplementary information where necessary. Occasionally, applicants are invited for an interview to help us reach a decision.
Q: When can I visit the campus?
A: The University holds two Open Days each a year, usually in June and October. Booking is essential for both events, so make contact quickly to check dates and secure places for you and your friends or family members. Applicants holding offers who applied before 15th January are invited to attend an Admissions Day at which they learn more about their chosen degree and Sussex itself.
If you are unable to make one of our Open Days, or if you have an offer but can't attend an Admissions Day, you are welcome to come on one of our weekly campus tours. The tours, led by current students or recent graduates, give you the chance to explore campus and get the lowdown on student life at Sussex.
Q: If I apply to the Foundation Year, but do much better than expected in my exams, can I switch to one of the three-year degrees instead?
A: Generally, yes. If you meet our entry requirements we will be happy to talk to you about direct entry to one of our three-year degree courses.
Q: How can I ask about my individual concerns or application?
A: You are welcome to email informaticsoffice@sussex.ac.uk or (01273) 678195 for further information.
Q: Do you offer scholarships?
A: Yes. The University maintains a searchable database containing details of a wide variety of scholarships. There is also an international scholarship scheme for overseas fee-paying students.
For courses in Informatics, we offer an unlimited number of scholarships worth £1,000 on entry to high-achieving applicants. These are awarded to UK/EU students who firmly accept our offer of a place by the UCAS deadline, meet the terms of that offer and obtain grade 'A' in three subjects (excluding General Studies) at A-level in a single sitting. There is no need for a separate application: apply through UCAS and you will be considered for a scholarship as part of the normal Sussex entry procedure.
Teaching and learning
Q: How many hours a week am I in class?
A: Contact time on modules varies, but in each of the Autumn and Spring terms you will take four modules. A typical teaching pattern for a module involves two lectures each week together with a seminar, exercise group or lab class. Of course, outside of the timetabled classes you are expected to complete coursework (both assessed and non-assessed), visit the computing labs to practice programming, study your teaching notes and so on.
Q: Would you advise me to bring my own laptop?
A: We have a number of well-equipped computing labs in Informatics. This means that it isn't necessary for you to have you own laptop or PC. However, many students do have their own machine and, with networking throughout the residences and wi-fi across the campus, it is very easy for you to get on with coursework.
Q: Is there a campus network?
A: Yes. The 'ResNet' wired network covers the student residences and there is a campus-wide wireless network, so you can deal with email and surf the web in the coffee bar...
Careers
Q: Are there jobs for graduates of computing/IT?
A: Yes! Graduates of computing and IT are in high demand and graduates from Informatics do well in the job market compared to the national picture.
Q: Do you offer a sandwich year?
A: Yes. Students are able to do a year in industry and gain a degree "with industrial experience" if they choose to do so and if they are accepted by a company. For students who prefer not to take a year out, we support students in finding relevant part-time or summer work and internships.
Q: What sorts of careers do your graduates go into?
A: The range of careers is broad, as almost all employers need people with computing skills. However, as you might expect, as an Informatics graduate with specialised skills you will be in particular demand. Informatics graduates often go into software/web development positions. Quite a few go straight into technical management positions. As we run degrees in computer games and digital media, many of our graduates go into new media, broadcasting and the creative industries.