BSc, 3 years, UCAS: GF13
Typical A level offer: AAA-AAB
Subject overview
Why physics and astronomy?
The laws of physics are fundamental to all physical sciences. As a physicist or astronomer you are driven by curiosity to understand the world around you, studying interactions that give rise to the behaviour of matter at all levels. Knowledge of physics not only leads to a profound understanding of the physical world but provides a platform for developing new and innovative ideas – the technology we use in our daily lives is based upon the laws of physics. You will discover how to use well-understood physical principles to explain and predict the properties of complex systems, from sub-atomic particles to distant galaxies.

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Why physics and astronomy at Sussex?
Physics and astronomy at Sussex was ranked 1st (89 per cent) for personal development and 5th (96 per cent and 92 per cent) for overall satisfaction as well as organisation and management in the 2012 National Student Survey (NSS).
Physics and astronomy at Sussex was ranked in the top 5 in the UK in The Times Good University Guide 2013, in the top 10 in the UK in The Sunday Times University Guide 2012, 16th in the UK in The Guardian University Guide 2014 and 21st in the UK in The Complete University Guide 2014.
The Department of Physics and Astronomy was ranked top in the South East and 12th nationally in the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise. 95 percent of our research was rated as recognised internationally or higher, and 60 per cent rated as internationally excellent or higher.
Prize-winning students: two of our students have won the prestigious Science, Engineering and Technology (SET) Student of the Year award, and another has won Best Physics Student of the Year. A number of our students have reached the final stages of this national competition.
World-leading physicists and astronomers will teach you all about established theories as well as the latest technologies, interpretations and developments.
Well-established exchange programmes with universities in Europe and America.
We are a core part of the SEPnet (South East Physics network) consortium, giving us links to universities and industry across the region.

Why mathematics?
Mathematics is core to most modern-day science, technology and business. When you turn on a computer or use a mobile phone, you are using sophisticated technology that mathematics has played a fundamental role in developing. Unravelling the human genome or modelling the financial markets relies on mathematics.
As well as playing a major role in the physical and life sciences, and in such disciplines as economics and psychology, mathematics has its own attraction and beauty. Mathematics is flourishing: more research has been published in the last 20 years than in the previous 200, and celebrated mathematical problems that had defeated strenuous attempts to settle them have recently been solved.
The breadth and relevance of mathematics leads to a wide choice of potential careers. Employers value the numeracy, clarity of thought and capacity for logical argument that the study of mathematics develops, so a degree in mathematics will give you great flexibility in career choice.

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Why mathematics at Sussex?
Mathematics at Sussex was ranked in the top 10 for academic support in the 2012 National Student Survey (NSS) and overall we were ranked in the top 20 in the UK in The Sunday Times University Guide 2012 and in the top 30 in the UK in The Complete University Guide 2014.
In the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) 90 per cent of our mathematics research and 97 per cent of our mathematics publications were rated as recognised internationally or higher, and 50 per cent of our research and 64 per cent of our publications were rated as internationally excellent or higher.
83 per cent of Mathematics graduates were in work or further study, or both, within six months of graduating (Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education Survey 2011).
The Department of Mathematics awards prizes for the best student results each year, including £1,000 for the best final-year student.
You will find that our Department is a warm, supportive and enjoyable place to study, with staff who have a genuine concern for their students.
Our teaching is informed by current research and understanding and we update our courses to reflect the latest developments in the field of mathematics.
MMath or BSc?
The MMath courses are aimed at students who have a strong interest in pursuing a deeper study of mathematics and who wish to use it extensively in careers where advanced mathematical skills are important, such as mathematical modelling in finance or industry, advanced-level teaching or postgraduate research.
Applicants unsure about whether to do an MMath or a BSc are strongly advised to opt initially for the MMath course. If your eventual A level grades meet the offer level for a BSc but not an MMath we will automatically offer you a place on the BSc course. Students on the MMath course can opt to transfer to the BSc at the end of the second year.
Antonella's faculty perspective
‘Working on the ATLAS experiment at the CERN Large Hadron Collider, one of the biggest physics experiments ever constructed, is a unique opportunity for experimental particle physicists of my generation. I feel very privileged to be part of science history in the making.
‘As an acknowledged researcher in my field, I publish my results in leading physics journals and present them to the scientific community at international meetings and conferences. Research is such a big part of who I am and what I do, and I always try and integrate it in my teaching and all interactions with my students.
'Our degrees, besides providing core training in fundamental physics research, also equip our students with a broad range of transferable skills that are in high demand with employers, such as advanced problem-solving skills, advanced computing and data analysis, and detailed knowledge of sophisticated experimental techniques.’
Dr Antonella De Santo
Professor of Physics,
University of Sussex
Programme content
This course exploits the strong relationship between mathematics and physics.
Alongside the mathematics core modules, you study a range of physics modules including topics such as classical physics, quantum mechanics and electrodynamics. You will develop an understanding of the interplay between mathematics and physics, together with the skills to use tools from both fields in problem solving and modelling.
As well as the core mathematics modules in Years 1 and 2, you will spend 25 per cent of your time studying physics modules. In the third year, you take a combination of mathematics and physics options.
We continue to develop and update our modules for 2014 entry to ensure you have the best student experience. In addition to the course structure below, you may find it helpful to refer to the 2012 modules tab.
Core content
Year 1
You take topics such as mechanics • classical physics • mathematical methods for physics • data acquisition and analysis • optics and imaging • modern physics.
Astrophysics and Physics students take laboratory module(s) while Theoretical Physics students take an additional mathematics module and a data analysis module. Astrophysics students also study introductory astrophysics. Non-astrophysics students can choose from a variety of options
Year 2
You take topics such as electrodynamics • quantum mechanics • thermal and statistical physics • further mathematical methods • skills in physics • scientific computing.
Astrophysics and Physics students take laboratory module(s) while Theoretical Physics students study further analysis. Astrophysics students also study stars and planets
Year 3
Core topics include nuclear and particle physics • condensed state physics • atomic physics. You also take options in topics such as particle physics • advanced condensed state physics • further quantum mechanics. Astrophysics students study galaxies
BSc students work on a final-year project, while Theoretical Physics MPhys students work on two mathematical physics projects.
Year 4 (MPhys only)
You work on a substantial final-year project and gain higher-level skills in physics. You also take Masters-level options on a variety of specialised topics closely aligned with the research profile of the Department and a Masters-level module on skills in physics.
How will I learn?
Laboratory work, projects, group tutorials, self-directed learning and one-to-one consultation with your tutors all form an important part of your course. For each module you typically have two or three lectures per week. Accompanying the lectures are workshops, in which you work on your own or in a group, with help available from a tutor who explains and discusses the solutions to problem sheets.
Applying your existing talents and developing new skills, you discover new ways to solve problems, complete group and individual exercises in the laboratory and present your work through written reports and oral presentations.
Laboratory work develops your skills in experimental planning and critical analysis. The complexity of the experiments increases as you progress towards your final-year project.
In the final year of all our physics courses, you work on a project in which you pursue a specialised investigation. In the case of the MPhys degree this is normally a major project designed to equip you for a career in research. For information about final-year projects, visit Department of Physics and Astronomy: Final-year projects.
E-learning also plays an important part in our courses. In your first year, the web-based Mastering Physics package provides an online tutorial system that is used for independent practice and assessment, with overall supervision by your lecturers. All modules are supported by a variety of resources on a VLE (virtual learning environment), including lecture recordings for some.
In order to offer an opportunity for you to work closely with our excellent researchers, we have established a unique research placement course. If you are awarded a place on this course, you can join a state-of-the-art research project during the summer vacation of each year and thereby obtain a deeper understanding of a particular branch of physics or astronomy and develop research skills of great value for a future career. For information about research placement projects, visit Department of Physics and Astronomy: Research placement projects.
We encourage you to customise your course. You can take at least one module each year in another subject area. We also offer flexibility between different physics courses, and if your interests change, our admissions team will be happy to help.
For more information, visit Studying at Sussex.
Also refer to Department of Physics and Astronomy: Teaching methods and Department of Physics and Astronomy: Sussex abroad.
What will I achieve?
The fundamental ideas of physics underpin many other sciences, so you will be well equipped to adapt and apply your knowledge in whatever career you decide to pursue.
You will be able to develop independent ideas, use your newly acquired scientific, technical and interpersonal skills and establish yourself as a graduate ready to take on the world.
All our courses are accredited by the Institute of Physics. On graduation you will qualify for Associate membership, which is the first step towards Chartered Physicist status.
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We continue to develop and update our modules for 2014 entry to ensure you have the best student experience. In addition to the course structure below, you may find it helpful to refer to the 2012 modules tab.
Core content
Year 1
You take modules on topics such as calculus • introduction to pure mathematics • geometry • analysis • mathematical modelling • linear algebra • numerical analysis. You also work on a project on mathematics in everyday life
Year 2
You take modules on topics such as an introduction to probability • calculus of several variables • complex analysis • differential equations • further analysis • further numerical analysis • group theory • probability and statistics
Year 3
You choose from a range of options including topics such as an introduction to mathematical biology • financial mathematics • functional analysis • linear statistical models • medical statistics • partial differential equations • probability models • ring theory
Year 4 (MMath only)
You choose from a range of options including topics such as coding theory • differential geometry • harmonic analysis and wavelets • measure and integration • numerical linear algebra • random processes • topology
MMath students also work on their final-year project
How will I learn?
We recognise that new students have a range of mathematical backgrounds and that the transition from A level to university-level study can be challenging, so we have designed our first-term modules to ease this. Although university modes of teaching place more emphasis on independent learning, you will have access to a wide range of support from tutors.
Teaching and learning are by a combination of lectures, workshops, lab sessions and independent study. All modules are supported by small-group teaching in which you can discuss topics raised in lectures. We emphasise the ‘doing’ of mathematics as it cannot be passively learnt. Our workshops are designed to support the solution of exercises and problems.
Most modules consist of regular lectures, supported by classes for smaller groups. You receive regular feedback on your work from your tutor. If you need further help, all tutors and lecturers have weekly office hours when you can drop in for advice, individually or in groups. Most of the lecture notes, problem sheets and background material are available on the Department’s website.
Upon arrival at Sussex you will be assigned an academic advisor for the period of your study. They also operate office hours and in the first year they will see you weekly. This will help you settle in quickly and offers a great opportunity to work through any academic problems.
For more information, visit Studying at Sussex.
Also refer to Department of Mathematics: Teaching methods and Department of Mathematics: Study abroad at Sussex.
What will I achieve?
- excellent training in problem-solving skills
- understanding of the structures and techniques of mathematics, including methods of proof and logical arguments
- written and oral communication skills
- organisational and time-management skills
- an ability to make effective use of information and to evaluate numerical data
- IT skills and computer literacy through computational and mathematical projects
- you will learn to manage your personal professional career development in preparation for further study, or the world of work.
Please note that these are the modules running in 2012.
Year 1
Core modules
Year 2
Core modules
Year 3
Core modules
- Atomic Physics
- Complex Analysis
- Condensed State Physics
- Nuclear and Particle Physics
- Quantum Mechanics 2
Options
- Advanced Condensed State Physics
- Advanced Numerical Analysis
- Coding Theory
- Continuum Mechanics
- Cryptography
- Dynamical Systems
- Financial Mathematics
- Functional Analysis
- Harmonic Analysis and Wavelets
- Introduction to Mathematical Biology
- Lasers
- Mathematical Research Project
- Measure and Integration
- Partial Differential Equations
- Particle Physics
- Perturbation theory and calculus of variations
- Ring Theory
- Topology and Advanced Analysis
Analysis 1
15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 1
Topics include:
- Sequences: convergence, Cauchy sequences, subsequences
- Series: proof and application of convergence/divergence criteria
- Limits of functions: definitions, examples and properties
- Continuity: intermediate value theorem, uniform continuity
- Differentiability: definition, proofs of mean value theorems
Calculus
15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 1
Topics include: functions of one real variable: graphical representation, inverse functions, composition of functions, polynomial, trigonometric, exponential and hyperbolic functions. Limits, continuity and differentiation: one-sided limits, infinite limits, algebra of limits, continuity and the intermediate value theorem, differentiation from first principles, product rule and chain rule, Rolle’s theorem, the mean value theorem and Taylor’s theorem, stationary points of a function. Integration: indefinite and definite integrals, fundamental theorem of calculus, integration by parts and integration by substitution. Solutions to first order ODEs. Manipulations with absolute values. Quadratic forms
Classical Mechanics
15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 1
An introduction to mechanics and its applications, covering: Newton's Laws; particle dynamics; work and kinetic energy; potential energy and energy conservation; momentum, impulse and collisions; rocket propulsion; rigid-body rotation; torque and angular momentum; gyroscopes and precession; statics and equilibrium; fluid statics and dynamics; gravitation, satellite motion and Kepler's laws.
Classical Physics
15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 1
This module is focused around three main areas:
Electromagnetism:
-Electric forces and fields in systems with static discrete electric charges and static observers.
-Continuous charge distributions, Gauss's law. Electric potential energy and electric potential.
-Energy stored by the electric field. Motion of charged particles in static electric fields.
-Conductors and insulators in electric fields. Capacitance and capacitors. Energy storage in capacitors. Dielectrics. Drude's model of conduction.
-Creation of magnetic fields from linear motion of charges (ie, a current) electron spin and orbital motion; motion perpendicular to an electric field. Force on a charged particle moving perpendicular to magnetic field.
Relativity:
-Historical perspective.
-Inertial frames and transformations. Newton's laws in inertial frames.
-Michelson-Morley experiment - observed constancy of speed of light. Einstein's assumptions.
-Lorentz-Einstein transformations; Minkowski diagrams; Lorentz contraction; time dilation.
-Transformation of velocities - stellar aberration. Variation of mass, mass-energy equivalence.
-Lorentz transformations for momentum and energy.
Thermodynamics:
-Phases of matter; the zeroth law of thermodynamics; temperature and temperature scales
-Thermal expansion coefficients
-The ideal-gas law
-The kinetic theory of gases; the Maxwell speed distribution; mean free paths; transport properties of gases; the equipartition theorem
-Heat capacity; latent heat
-The first law of thermodynamics; internal energy of gases
-PV diagrams; work
-Adiabatic processes
Geometry
15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 1
Topics include: vectors in two and three dimensions. Vector algebra: addition, scalar product, vector product, including triple products. Applications in two- and three-dimensional geometry: points, lines, planes, geometrical theorems. Area and volume. Linear dependence and determinants. Polar co-ordinates in two and three dimensions. Definitions of a group and a field. Polynomials. Complex numbers, Argand plane, De Moivre's theorem. Matrices: addition, multiplication, inverses. Transformations in R^2 and R^3: isometries. Analytical geometry: classification and properties of conics.
Introduction to Pure Mathematics
15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 1
Topics covered include:
- Numbers: introduction of mathematical symbols, natural numbers, integers, rationals, real numbers, basic number algebra. Ordering, inequalities, absolute value (modulus), homogeneity, triangle inequality. Concept of algebraic structure, groups. Sequences, Induction Principle, Well Ordering Principle, sums, products, factorials, Fibonacci numbers, fractions.
- Irrational roots of integers, divisibility, prime numbers, Euclidean Division, highest common factor, Euclidean Algorithm, Number Theory, Atomic Property of Primes, Coprime Factorisation, Fundamental Theorem of Arithmetic, square-free numbers.
- Logic: concept of proof, logical argument, direct proof, propositional manipulation, basic logic, and, or, not, implication, contraposition, contradiction, logical equivalence, quantifiers.
- Axiomatic set theory: Extension Axiom, equality of sets, Specification Axiom, intersection (meet), difference (take), subset, Existence Axiom, empty set, Pairing Axiom, singletons, pairs, ordered pairs, Union Axiom, cartesian products, Power Axiom, power set.
- Counting: maps and functions, distinguished functions, injections, surjections, bijections, one-to-one correspondences, Pigeon Hole Principle, counting the power set, counting subsets of the power set, Cherry Picking, binomial coefficients, binomial formula, combinatorics, Inclusion-Exclusion formula, permutations, counting maps.
- Functions and maps: formal definition, finite and infinite sets, Peano's Axiom (Infinity Axiom/Induction Axiom), Pigeon Hole Principle revisited, counterimage, inverse functions, partial inverses, Axiom of Choice.
- Relations: relations, equivalence relations, modular arithmetic and quotient sets, order relations, partial ordering, total ordering, linear ordering. Rigorous extension of N to Z and Q. Rings, fields. Examples.
- Real numbers: ordering and Archimedean Property of Reals, countable vs. uncountable sets, Cantor's "Diagonal".
Linear Algebra
15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 1
You will cover:
Matrices, Elementary row and column operations, Vector spaces, Linear independence, Basis and dimension, Inner products and orthogonality, Gram-Schmidt orthonormalisation process, Linear transformations, Determinants, Eigen-values and Eigen-vectors, Polynomials, Cayley-Hamilton
theorem, Quadratic forms.
Numerical Analysis 1
15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 1
This module covers topics such as:
Introduction to Computing with MATLAB
- Basic arithmetic and vectors, M-File Functions, For Loops, If and else, While statements
Introduction to Numerical Analysis
- Operating with floating point numbers, round-off error, cancellation error
- Polynomial interpolation, Basic idea of interpolation, Order of approximation, Lagrangian interpolation, Runge's example, Piecewise linear interpolation
- Numerical differentiation, finite difference quotients, order of approximation
- Numerical integration, Derive standard numerical integration scheme's and analyse, using polynomial interpolation (midpoint formula, trapezoidal rule, Simpson's formula)
- Nonlinear equations, bisection method, fixed point iteration method, Newton's method/ Secant method
Analysis 2
15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 2
Topics covered: power series, radius of convergence; Taylor series and Taylor's formula; applications and examples; upper and lower sums; the Riemann integral; basic properties of the Riemann integral; primitive; fundamental theorem of calculus; integration by parts and change of variable; applications and examples. Pointwise and uniform convergence of sequences and series of functions: interchange of differentiation or integration and limit for sequences and series; differentiation and integration of power series term by term; applications and examples. Metric spaces and normed linear spaces: inner products; Cauchy sequences, convergence and completeness; the Euclidean space R^n; introduction to general topology; applications and examples.
Calculus of Several Variables
15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 2
Differential Equations
15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 2
Topics include:
Ordinary differential equations:
- Solution methods: Variation of the constant formula, separation of variables
- Solution of linear ODE with constant coefficients
- Lipschitz continuity
- Existence and uniqueness (Picard-Lindeloef), maximal solutions, Gronwall
- Higher order equations into system of first order
- Boundary value problems.
Partial differential equations:
- Partial and total derivatives
- First order PDEs: Method of characteristics for semilinear and quasilinear equations, initial boundary value problems.
Electrodynamics
15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 2
This module covers electro/magnetostatics and electrodynamics in differential form with key applications. Topics covered include: mathematical revision.
Electrostatics: equations for the E-field, potential, energy, basic boundary-value setups. Electrostatics: dielectrics, displacement and free charge. Magnetostatics: forces, equations for the B-field, vector potential, Biot-Savart, dipole field of current loops. Magnetostatics: diamagnetism and paramagnetism, auxiliary field H, ferromagnetism. Electrodynamics: Faraday's law, inductance and back emf, circuit applications, Maxwell-Ampere law, energy and Poynting's theorem. Electromagnetic waves: wave equation, plane waves, polarization, waves in dielectrics, reflection at an interface, wave velocity/group velocity/dispersion. Potentials and dipole radiation.
Introduction to Probability and Applied Analysis
15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 2
Numerical Analysis 2
15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 2
Topics covered include:
- Linear systems (conditioning, LU factorization, basic iterative methods, convergence analysis)
- Nonlinear systems: Newton's method
- Numerical solution of differential equations:
- finite difference methods for first and second order initial value problems
- finite difference/element methods for one-dimensional boundary value problems
Quantum Mechanics 1
15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 2
Module topics include
- Introduction to quantum mechanics, wave functions and the Schroedinger equation in 1D.
- Statistical interpretation of quantum mechanics, probability density, expectation values, normalisation of the wave function.
- Position and momentum, Heisenberg uncertainty relation.
- Time-independent Schroedinger equation, stationary states, eigenstates and eigenvalues.
- Bound states in a potential, infinite square well.
- Completeness and orthogonality of eigenstates.
- Free particle, probability current, wave packets, group and phase velocities, dispersion.
- General potentials, bound and continuum states, continuity of the wave function and its first
- derivative.
- Bound states in a finite square well.
- Left- and right-incident scattering of a finite square well, reflection and transmission probabilities.
- Reflection and transmission at a finite square well.
- Reflection and transmission at a square barrier, over-the-barrier reflection, tunnelling, resonant
- tunnelling through multiple barriers.
- Harmonic oscillator (analytic approach).
- Quantum mechanics in 3D, degeneracy in the 3D isotropic harmonic oscillator.
- Orbital angular momentum, commutators and simultaneous measurement.
- Motion in a central potential, Schroedinger equation in spherical polar coordinates.
- Schroedinger equation in a Coulomb potential.
- H atom.
- Spin, identical particles, spin-statistics theorem.
- Helium, basics of atomic structure.
- Time-independent perturbation theory for non-degenerate bound states.
- Applications of perturbation theory, fine structure in the H atom.
- Schroedinger equation for a particle coupled to an electromagnetic field.
- Summary and revision
Thermal and Statistical Physics
15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 2
Topics covered include:
- Review of kinetic theory of gases and first law of thermodynamics.
- Basics of statistical mechanics. Microstates, entropy, second law.
- Classical thermodynamics. Engines and refrigerators.
- More statistical mechanics. Maxwell-Boltzmann, Bose-Einstein and Fermi-Dirac distributions.
- Blackbody radiation.
- Elements of phase transitions.
Atomic Physics
15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3
Topics covered include: physics of the hydrogen atom; relativistic hydrogen atom (fine structure, antimatter); hyperfine structure of hydrogen and the 21-cm line; interaction with external fields (Zeeman Effect, Stark Effect); helium atom; multi-electron atoms and the periodic system; molecules and chemical binding; molecular structure: vibration and rotation; radiative processes, emission and absorption spectra.
Complex Analysis
15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3
Topics covered include:
- Holomorphic functions, Cauchy's theorem and its consequences.
- Power series, integration, differentiation and analysis of convergence.
- Taylor expansions and circle of convergence.
- Laurent expansions and classification of isolated singularities.
- Residue theorem and evaluation of integrals.
- Rouche's theorem and the fundamental theorem of algebra.
Condensed State Physics
15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3
Classification of Solids
1. Types of solids; Classification of elements and compounds by physical properties. 2. Types of bonding. 3. Basic band theory of metals, electrical insulators and semiconductors.
Crystal Structures
4. Crystals; Unit cells and lattice parameters. 5. Bravais lattices; Crystallographic basis; Crystal axes and planes. 6. Cubic and hexagonal structures. 7. Reciprocal lattice.
Diffraction by Crystals
8. Physical Processes; Braggs law; Atomic and geometrical scattering factors. 9. Diffraction crystallography.
Lattice Vibrations
10. Thermal properties of electrical insulators: Specific Heat and Thermal Conductivity. 11. Vibrations of monatomic and diatomic 1-D crystals; Acoustic and Optical modes. 12. Quantisation of Lattice Vibrations; Phonons. 13. Einstein and Debye Models for Lattice Specific Heat.
The Free Electron Model
14. Classical Free Electron Gas. 15. Quantised Free Electron Model. 16. Specific Heat of the Conduction Electrons. 17. Electrical and Thermal Conductivity of metals. 18. AC conductivity and Optical Properties of metals.
Dielectric and Optical Properties of Insulators
19. Dielectric Constant and Polarizability. 20. Sources of Polarizability; Dipolar Dispersion.
Nuclear and Particle Physics
15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3
This module on nuclear and particle physics covers:
- Chronology of discoveries.
- Basic nuclear properties.
- Nuclear forces.
- Models of nuclear structure.
- Magic numbers.
- Nuclear reactions, nuclear decay and radioactivity, including their roles in nature.
- The weak force.
- Existence and properties of neutrinos.
- Qualitative introduction to neutrino oscillations.
- C, P and T symmetries.
- Classification of elementary particles, and their reactions and decays.
- Particle structure.
- Qualitative introduction to Feynman diagrams.
Quantum Mechanics 2
15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3
This module on quantum mechanics employing Dirac notation and algebraic methods. Topics covered include:
- Dirac's formulation of quantum mechanics - bras&kets, observables, algebraic treatment of harmonic oscillator, x&p representation, compatibility, uncertainty
- Symmetries and conservation laws - generators of translations&rotations, parity, time evolution, Heisenberg picture
- Angular momentum - algebraic treatment, spin, "addition" of angular momenta, explicit form of rotation operators
- Approximation methods - time-independent perturbation theory: first and second orders, degeneracies; WKB approximation & tunneling
- Interaction picture and time-dependent perturbation theory
- Basics of field quantisation - creation and annihilation operators, EM transitions
- Basic scattering theory
- Mixed states and quantum measurement - density matrix, Bell's inequality
- Elements of relativistic QM and antiparticles
Advanced Condensed State Physics
15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3
This module covers the following topics:
- Electronic Energy bands in Solids. Electrons in periodic potentials; Brillouin Zones; Bloch states. Nearly Free Electron (NFE) model. Tight-Binding Approximation (TBA) model. Band structure of selected metals, insulators and semiconductors. Optical Properties.
- Electron Dynamics. Electrons and holes. Effective Mass. Mobilities. Magneto-transport.
- Semiconductors. Classification; Energy Gaps. Donor and Acceptor doping. Equilibrium carrier statistics in intrinsic and doped materials. Temperature dependence of electrical and optical properties.
- Semiconductor Devices. p-n junctions. Diodes, LEDs, Lasers, Transistors. Superlattices and 2DEG devices.
- Lattice Defects. Types of defects. Electronic and optical effects of defects in semiconductors and insulators.
Advanced Numerical Analysis
15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3
Coding Theory
15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3
Topics include:
- Introduction to error-correcting codes. The main coding theory problem. Finite fields.
- Vector spaces over finite fields. Linear codes. Encoding and decoding with a linear code.
- The dual code and the parity check matrix. Hamming codes. Constructions of codes.
- Weight enumerators. Cyclic codes.
Continuum Mechanics
15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3
Topics include:
- Kinematics: Eulerian and Lagrangian descriptions, velocity, acceleration, rate of change of physical quantities, material derivatives, streamlines.
- Deformation: stress and strain tensors, Hooke's law, equilibrium equations.
- Conservation laws for mass, momentum and energy.
- Phase/group velocities of travelling wave solutions.
- Models of fluid and solid mechanics.
Cryptography
15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3
Topics covered include:
- Symmetric-key cryptosystems.
- Hash functions and message authentication codes.
- Public-key cryptosystems.
- Complexity theory and one-way functions.
- Random number generation.
- Attacks on cryptosystems.
- Cryptographic standards.
Dynamical Systems
15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3
Topics covered include:
- General dynamical systems: semiflow, stability and attraction, omega-limit set, global attractor.
- Ordinary differential equations: Linear systems, Lyapunov function, linearized systems around fixed points, periodic orbits, Two-dimensional systems, centre manifold, bifurcation.
- Discrete systems (iterations): Linear systems, linearized systems around fixed points.
Financial Mathematics
15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3
You will study generalized cash flows, time value of money, real and money interest rates, compound interest functions, equations of value, loan repayment schemes, investment project evaluation and comparison, bonds, and project writing.
Functional Analysis
15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3
Topics on this module include: Banach spaces; Banach fixed-point theorem; Baire's Theorem; Bounded linear operators and on Banach spaces; continuous linear functionals; Banach-Steinhaus Uniform Boundedness Principle; open mapping and closed graph theorems; Hahn-Banach Theorem; compactness of sets; Hilbert spaces; orthogonal expansions; Riesz-Fischer Theorem.
Harmonic Analysis and Wavelets
15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3
You will be introduced to the concepts of harmonic analysis and the basics of wavelet theory: you will discuss the concepts of normed linear spaces and Hilbert spaces, with a focus on sequence spaces and spaces of functions, most notably the space of square-integrable functions on an interval or on the real line. You will be introduced to the ideas of best approximation, orthogonal projection, orthogonal sums, orthonormal bases and Fourier series in a separable Hilbert space.
You will then apply these concepts to the concrete case of classical trigonometric Fourier series, and both Fejer's theorem and the Weierstrass approximation theorem will be proved.
Finally, you will apply the introduced concepts for Hilbert to discuss wavelet analysis for the example of the Haar wavelet and the Haar scaling function. You will be introduced to the concepts of an orthogonal wavelet and a multiresolution analysis (with a scaling function for the case of the Haar wavelet), but will also be defined in general. The concepts of an orthogonal wavelet and a multiresolution analysis (with a scaling function) will initially be introduced for the case of the Haar wavelet, but will also be defined in general.
Introduction to Mathematical Biology
15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3
The module will introduce you to the concepts of mathematical modelling with applications to biological, ecological and medical phenomena. The main topics will include:
- Continuous populations models for single species;
- Discrete population models for single species;
- Phase plane analysis;
- Interacting populations (continuous models);
- Enzyme kinetics;
- Dynamics of infectious diseases and epidemics.
Lasers
15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3
This module covers:
- Light-matter interaction.
- Rate equations of lasers.
- Principles of Gaussian optics and optical cavities.
- Types of lasers and their applications.
Mathematical Research Project
15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3
The project aims to introduce you under the guidance of a supervisor into a mathematical topic
Measure and Integration
15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3
Topics for this module include:
- Countably additive measures, sigma-algebras, Borel sets, measure spaces.
- Outer measures and Caratheodory's construction of measures.
- Construction and properties of Lebesgue measure in Euclidean spaces.
- Measurable and integrable functions, Lebesgue integration theory on measure spaces, L^p spaces and their properties.
- Convergence theorems: monotone convergence, dominated convergence, Fatou's lemma.
- Application of limit theorems to continuity and differentiability of integrals depending on a parameter.
- Properties of finite measure spaces and probability theory.
Partial Differential Equations
15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3
Topics include: Second-order Partial Differential Equations: wave equation, heat equation, Laplace equation. D'Alembert's solution, separation of variables, Duhamel's principle, energy method, Maximum principle, Green's identities.
Particle Physics
15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3
Perturbation theory and calculus of variations
15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3
The aim of this module is to introduce you to a variety of techniques primarily involving ordinary differential equations, that have applications in various branches of applied mathematics. No particular application is emphasised.
Topics covered include
- Dimensional analysis and scaling:
- physical quantities and their measurement;
- dimensions;
- change of units;
- physical laws;
- Buckingham Pi Theorem;
- scaling.
- Regular perturbation methods:
- direct method applied to algebraic equations and initial value problems (IVP);
- Poincar method for periodic solutions;
- validity of approximations.
- Singular perturbation methods:
- finding approximate solutions to algebraic solutions;
- finding approximate solutions to boundary value problems (BVP) including boundary layers and matching.
- Calculus of Variations:
- necessary conditions for a function to be an extremal of a fixed or free end point problem involving a functional of integral form;
- isoperimetric problems.
Ring Theory
15 credits
Autumn teaching, Year 3
In this module we will explore how to construct fields such as the complex numbers and investigate other properties and applications of rings.
Topics covered include
- Rings and types of rings: examples.
- Special rings and special elements: unit, zero, divisor, integral domain, fraction field, irreducible element, prime element.
- Factorising polynomials: roots and multiple roots, differentiation, roots of unity, polynomials in Q[x] and Z[x], Gauss' lemma, Eisenstein's criterion.
- Manipulating roots and symmetry: coefficients of polynomials and roots, Newton's theorem.
- Euclidean domains: Gaussian integers, Euclidean algorithm, gcd's and lcm's.
- Homomorphisms and ideals: quotient rings, principal, maximal and prime ideals.
- Finite fields.
- Unique factorisation domains: generalising Gauss' lemma.
- Special topics: Quaternions, valuations, Hurwitz ring, the four squares theorem.
Topology and Advanced Analysis
15 credits
Spring teaching, Year 3
This module will introduce you to some of the basic concepts and properties of topological spaces. The subject of topology has a central role in all of Mathematics and having a proper understanding of its concepts and main theorem is essential as part of an undergraduate mathematics curriculum.
Topics that will be covered in this module include:
- Topological spaces
- Base and sub-base
- Separation axioms
- Continuity
- Metrisability
- Completeness
- Compactness and Coverings
- Total Boundedness
- Lebesgue numbers and Epsilon-nets
- Sequential Compactness
- Arzela-Ascoli Theorem
- Montel's theorem
- Infinite Products
- Box and Product Topologies
- Tychonov Theorem.
Entry requirements
Sussex welcomes applications from students of all ages who show evidence of the academic maturity and broad educational background that suggests readiness to study at degree level. For most students, this will mean formal public examinations; details of some of the most common qualifications we accept are shown below. If you are an overseas student, refer to Applicants from outside the UK.
All teaching at Sussex is in the English language. If your first language is not English, you will also need to demonstrate that you meet our English language requirements.
- A level
Typical offer: AAA-AAB
Specific entry requirements: A levels must include both Mathematics (at grade A) and Physics (with at least grade B).
- International Baccalaureate
Typical offer: 35 points overall
Specific entry requirements: Higher Levels must include both Mathematics (at grade 6) and Physics (with at least a grade of 5).
For more information refer to International Baccalaureate.
- Access to HE Diploma
Typical offer: Pass the Access to HE Diploma with at least 45 credits at Level 3, of which 30 credits must be at Distinction and 15 credits at Merit or higher.
Specific entry requirements: Successful applicants will need A levels in both Mathematics and Physics in addition to the Access to HE Diploma, with Mathematics at grade A and Physics with at least grade B.
For more information refer to Access to HE Diploma.
- Advanced Diploma
Typical offer: Pass with grade A in the Diploma and A in the Additional and Specialist Learning.
Specific entry requirements: The Additional and Specialist Learning must be an A level in Mathematics (grade A). Successful applicants will also need to take A level Physics as an extra A level (at least grade B).
For more information refer to Advanced Diploma.
- BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma
Typical offer: DDD
Specific entry requirements: In addition to the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma, successful applicants will need A-levels in both Mathematics and Physics, with grade A in Mathematics and at least grade B in Physics.
For more information refer to BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma.
- European Baccalaureate
Typical offer: Overall result of at least 80%
Specific entry requirements: Evidence of existing academic ability in Mathematics to the highest level is essential (normally with a final grade of at least 8.5); as well as evidence of high level ability in Physics.
For more information refer to European Baccalaureate.
- Finnish Ylioppilastutkinto
Typical offer: Overall average result in the final matriculation examinations of at least 6.5..
Specific entry requirements: Successful applicants will need Laudatur in both Mathematics and Physics.
- French Baccalauréat
Typical offer: Overall final result of at least 13.5/20
Specific entry requirements: Successful students will need to be taking the science strand within the French Baccalauréat with a final result of at least 14/20 in both Mathematics and Physics.
- German Abitur
Typical offer: Overall result of 1.5 or better
Specific entry requirements: Successful applicants will need a very good final result in Mathematics (at least 14/15) at a high level; and the same level of ability in Physics as well.
- Irish Leaving Certificate (Higher level)
Typical offer: AAAAAA-AAAABB
Specific entry requirements: Highers must include both Mathematics and Physics, both at grade A
- Italian Diploma di Maturità or Diploma Pass di Esame di Stato
Typical offer: Final Diploma mark of at least 92/100
Specific entry requirements: Evidence of existing academic ability to the highest level in both Mathematics and Physcs is essential.
- Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers
Typical offer: AAAAA-AAABB
Specific entry requirements: Highers must include both Mathematics and Physics, with grade A in each. Applicants will also need both subjects as Advanced Highers as well (gaining at least A in Mathematics and B in Physics).
For more information refer to Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers.
- Spanish Titulo de Bachillerato (LOGSE)
Typical offer: Overall average result of at least 8.5
Specific entry requirements: Evidence of a high level of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.
- Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma
Typical offer: Pass the Core plus at least AA in two A-levels
Specific entry requirements: A levels must be in both Mathematics and Physics.
For more information refer to Welsh Baccalaureate.
English language requirements
IELTS 6.5 overall, with not less than 6.0 in each section. Internet-based TOEFL with 88 overall, with at least 20 in Listening, 19 in Reading, 21 in Speaking and 23 in Writing.
For more information, refer to alternative English language requirements.
For more information about the admissions process at Sussex:
Undergraduate Admissions,
Sussex House,
University of Sussex, Falmer,
Brighton BN1 9RH, UK
T +44 (0)1273 678416
F +44 (0)1273 678545
E ug.enquiries@sussex.ac.uk
Related subjects
Fees and funding
Fees
Home/EU students: £9,0001
Overseas students: £13,0002
1 The fee shown is for the academic year 2013.
2 The fee shown is for the academic year 2013.
To find out about your fee status, living expenses and other costs, visit further financial information.
Funding
The University offers a number of scholarships. The most outstanding applicants may wish to apply to our MPhys in Physics (research placement), which offers a unique combination of additional financial support and genuine research experience during the undergraduate degree.
The funding sources listed below are for the subject area you are viewing and may not apply to all degrees listed within it. Please check the description of the individual funding source to make sure it is relevant to your chosen degree.
To find out more about funding and part-time work, visit further financial information.
Care Leavers Award (2014)
Region: UK
Level: UG
Application deadline: 31 July 2015
For students have been in council care before starting at Sussex.
First-Generation Scholars Scheme (2014)
Region: UK
Level: UG
Application deadline: 12 June 2015
The scheme is targeted to help students from relatively low income families – ie those whose family income is up to £42,622.
First-Generation Scholars Scheme EU Student Award (2014)
Region: Europe (Non UK)
Level: UG
Application deadline: 12 June 2015
£3,000 fee waiver for UG Non-UK EU students whose family income is below £25,000
Leverhulme Trade Charities Trust for Undergraduate Study (2014)
Region: UK
Level: UG
Application deadline: 1 March 2014
The Leverhulme Trade Charities Trust are offering bursaries to Undergraduate students following an undergraduate degree courses in any subject.
Careers and profiles
This course helps you to develop versatile skills that are in high demand among employers. Our graduates are able to go into employment in fields such as research and development, banking and finance, product development, health sciences, teaching and postgraduate study, and computing and information technology.
Our careers officer gives advice and organises events and talks by speakers such as Sussex graduate and Rough Science star Jonathan Hare.
Recent graduates have taken up a wide range of posts with employers including: business analyst at American Express • PhD student at University College London • PhD student at the University of Portsmouth • telephone researcher at Network Research • tutor at Maths Doctor.
Specific employer destinations listed are taken from recent Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education surveys, which are produced annually by the Higher Education Statistics Agency.
This course prepares you for employment in fields such as software development, actuarial work, financial consultancy, accountancy, business research and development, teaching, academia and the civil service. All of our courses give you a high-level qualification for further training in mathematics.
Recent graduates have taken up a wide range of posts with employers including: actuary at MetLife • assistant accountant at World Archipelago • audit trainee at BDO LLP UK • credit underwriter at Citigroup • graduate trainee for aerospace and defence at Cobham plc • pricing analyst at RSA Insurance Group plc • assistant analytics manager at the Royal Bank of Scotland • associate tutor at the University of Sussex • health economics consultant at the University of York • risk control analyst at Total Gas & Power • supply chain manager at Unipart Group • technology analyst at J P Morgan • digital marketing consultant at DC Storm • junior financial advisor at Barclays • audit associate at Ernst & Young • claims graduate trainee at Lloyds of London • development analyst at Axa PPP healthcare • fraud analyst at American Express • futures trader at Trading Tower Group Ltd • accountant at KPMG.
Specific employer destinations listed are taken from recent Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education surveys, which are produced annually by the Higher Education Statistics Agency.
Careers and employability
For employers, it’s not so much what you know, but what you can do with your knowledge that counts. The experience and skills you’ll acquire during and beyond your studies will make you an attractive prospect. Initiatives such as SussexPlus, delivered by the Careers and Employability Centre, help you turn your skills to your career advantage. It’s good to know that 94 per cent of our graduates are in work or further study (Which? University).
For more information on the full range of initiatives that make up our career and employability plan for students, visit Careers and alumni.
Contact our School
School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences
The School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences brings together two outstanding and progressive departments - Mathematics, and Physics and Astronomy. It capitalises on the synergy between these subjects to deliver new and challenging opportunities for its students and faculty.
How do I find out more?
For more information, contact:
Department of Mathematics,
University of Sussex, Falmer,
Brighton BN1 9QH, UK
E ug.admissions@mps.sussex.ac.uk
T +44 (0)1273 877345
F +44 (0)1273 678097
Department of Mathematics
School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences
The School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences brings together two outstanding and progressive departments - Mathematics, and Physics and Astronomy. It capitalises on the synergy between these subjects to deliver new and challenging opportunities for its students and faculty.
How do I find out more?
For general information, contact our admissions team:
Department of Physics and Astronomy,
University of Sussex, Falmer,
Brighton BN1 9QH, UK
E ug.admissions@physics.sussex.ac.uk
T +44 (0)1273 678557
F +44 (0)1273 678097
Department of Physics and Astronomy
Visit us
Sussex Open Day
Saturday 5 October 2013
Open Days offer you the chance to speak one to one with our world-leading academic staff, find out more about our courses, tour specialist facilities, explore campus, visit student accommodation, and much more. Booking is required. Go to Visit us and Open Days to book onto one of our tours.
Campus tours
Not able to attend one of our Open Days? Then book on to one of our weekly guided campus tours.
Mature-student information session
If you are 21 or over, and thinking about starting an undergraduate degree at Sussex, you may want to attend one of our mature student information sessions. Running between October and December, they include guidance on how to approach your application, finance and welfare advice, plus a guided campus tour with one of our current mature students.
Self-guided visits
If you are unable to make any of the visit opportunities listed, drop in Monday to Friday year round and collect a self-guided tour pack from Sussex House reception.
Jonathan's staff perspective
‘Sussex provides world-leading teaching and excellent academic facilities, with a vibrant student life in a fantastic location. All of this meant that I left Sussex with a unique set of experiences and a degree that has prepared me for my future.
‘Joining Student Recruitment Services at the University has enabled me to share my experiences of Sussex with others. Coming to an Open Day gives you the opportunity to meet our research-active academics and our current students, while exploring our beautiful campus. But don’t worry if you can’t make an Open Day, there’s plenty of other opportunities to visit Sussex. Check out our Visit us and Open Days pages or our Facebook page to find out more.
‘I’ve loved every moment of my time at Sussex – these have been the best years of my life.’
Jonathan Bridges
Graduate Intern, Student Recruitment Services
