Niall's perspective

'The physics department at Sussex has an extraordinary atmosphere. I settled in very quickly and have come to feel that not only am I a part of the department, but that it is a part of me. I have gained many friends in both students and faculty, many of whom I will remain in contact with.

My route to higher education was unconventional as I was a mature student without the normal set of qualifications, but Sussex was very welcoming and understanding. I am now heading into my fourth and final year, and I have successfully been awarded funding to do research in the department during the summer. Thanks to both the lecturers and my fellow students I have learned more than I thought possible about the world around me and how it works, which I continue to build upon daily. My time at Sussex has also encouraged me to pursue further study in particle theory, to take what I have learned to the next stage.'

Niall Fealty
MPhys Theoretical Physics student

Jessica's perspective

'Studying Physics at Sussex was the best decision I have ever made. Meeting up with other students in the study areas to talk about Physics is fun and I enjoy being on hand to help the younger students. This is the friendliest department anyone could wish for, with staff and postgraduates who always have time for us. The content can be challenging at times, but the support network is excellent, from peers to the helpdesk of postgraduates who provide assistance on problem sheets. Student mentors also offer wonderful support - I am now a student mentor myself. We are here to make the transition from school to university easier and run workshops and one-to-one sessions to improve your study skills.

If you are considering studying Physics at Sussex, it is a decision you will not regret; the degree is difficult but the rewards are truly astronomical.'

Jessica Collier
MPhys Physics student

Talitha's perspective

'The physics department at Sussex isn’t just interested in getting you a good physics degree; they really want to make you a great physicist. That means teaching you how to communicate the things you’ve learnt, how to write professional research reports, give presentations, think on your feet and apply your knowledge across different branches of physics.

Being embedded in an active research group is a fantastic way to experience what real physics research is like. It is super inspiring to see the physics you've been learning about in action and have the chance to explore advanced concepts and techniques. If you love experimenting, the RP course is an incredible opportunity.

The department has such a cosy, friendly feel with group study spaces, workshops and help desks, so you are never at a loss for someone to ask for help with tricky questions. The modules themselves are challenging, but the international lecturing team are both inspiring and super approachable, so if you’re keen to learn more or need extra help, they will always go above and beyond to make the time for you.

The extra-curricular opportunities are fantastic: the student physics society arrange incredible trips (this year to NASA) and fun events, there are open lectures on more advanced subjects and, most importantly for me, the chance to get research experience at a very early stage in your academic career. The trust, enthusiasm and opportunities on offer to physics students at Sussex are simply unparalleled.'

Talitha Bromwich
MPhys Physics with a research placement student

Laura's perspective

'My time at Sussex has been very unique and highlights the true quality of the physics department. The foundation year gave me a great understanding of core physics concepts and allowed me to progress into the first year with good study skills. Through great teaching and some determination I progressed onto the MPhys programme at the end of the first year and was fortunate to do a research project during the summer break. This work is now displayed in the department, which I feel is an amazing achievement for a student without an A-level in physics. This was thanks to faculty recognising potential in their students and treating each one as an individual.

During my second year, the department was incredibly supportive. Following a serious accident, both students and members of faculty visited me in hospital, keeping me up to date with course resources. They have continued to support me and I have now been offered the opportunity to work as a lab assistant. Physics faculty at Sussex really interact with their students, recognising ability and giving students the opportunity to showcase their talent and enthusiasm.'

Laura Tong
MPhys Physics with a research placement student

Philippa's perspective

'The foundation year really is the perfect stepping stone to get into a degree in Physics. The course is great as it fills in all the gaps and gives you added confidence in the areas you already know. Having not done maths in nearly three years I had worried about the maths modules, but on arrival I found that the whole year is structured in a step by step way with plenty of opportunities to ask questions in workshops, classes and lectures.

'The foundation year also introduces you to a diverse range of people with a wide range of ages and experiences; in my year alone there are two ex-servicemen and an aircraft engineer, as well as many people that have taken time out to travel the world.

'The foundation gave me the chance to go on and do the Physics BSc which I am amazingly thankful for. The Department's atmosphere and the course as a whole meant I had a fantastic year and gave me so much to look forward to in my time at Sussex.'

Philippa Curtis
Graduate in Physics & Astronomy BSc with a foundation year

Darren's perspective

'The lecturers at Sussex are of the highest quality and are engaged in world-leading research. Their natural enthusiasm for physics shines through, making lectures more involving and exciting. They're also very friendly, and easily reached at any time for help on a one-to-one basis. Additionally, they can provide a lot of help getting a Physics-based job during the summer; for example they helped me get a position as a lab assistant for the University's summer school.'

Darren De Motte
Graduate in MPhys Physics with Astrophysics and currently studying for a PhD