Key information
- Duration:
- 4 years full time
- Typical A-level offer:
- AAA-AAB
- UCAS code:
- C101
- Start date:
- September 2019
- 4th in the UK for graduate prospects in Biological Sciences (The Complete University Guide 2019)
- 100% said the course provided them with opportunities to explore ideas and concepts in depth (National Student Survey 2017)
- 100% of Biology students were in work or further study six months after graduating (HESA EPI, Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education Survey 2017)
At Sussex, you learn from experts who are tackling some of society’s biggest issues, from research into cancer treatments to the declining bee population.
You can choose from a wide range of modules, based on the latest research, to tailor your degree to your interests.
Your integrated Masters year means you develop advanced research skills.
Outside of the laboratory, you can apply your practical skills through fieldwork – we offer amazing field trips to Wales, Portugal, Southern Africa, the Red Sea and Ecuador. This gives you real-world research experience before you graduate.
MSci or BSc?
We also offer this course as a three-year BSc. Find out about the benefits of an integrated Masters year.
Biology at Sussex offers a huge range of specialist modules to choose from, coupled with excellent teaching.”Jenny Williamson
Biology BSc
Entry requirements
A-level
| Typical offer | AAA-AAB |
|---|---|
| Subjects | A-levels must include at least one from Biology, Chemistry or Physics. You will also normally need to pass the separate science practical assessment in at least one of the science subjects. If you are not able to take the science practical assessment, applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis. |
| GCSEs | You must have GCSE (or equivalent) English, Mathematics and two Science subjects with grade B in each (or grade 5 in the new grading scale). |
| Extended Project Qualification | We take the EPQ into account when considering your application and it can be useful in the summer when your results are released if you have narrowly missed the conditions of your offer. We do not routinely include the EPQ in the conditions of your offer but we sometimes offer alternative conditions that include the EPQ. If you wish to discuss this further please contact us |
Other UK qualifications
Access to HE Diploma
| Typical offer | Pass with 45 level 3 credits at Merit or above of which 30 - 45 credits must be at Distinction. |
|---|---|
| Subjects | Substantial amounts of Level 3 credit in science subjects. |
| GCSEs | You must have GCSE (or equivalent) English, Mathematics and two Science subjects with grade B in each (or grade 5 in the new grading scale). |
Cambridge Pre-U Principle Subjects (including A-level mixes)
| Typical offer | D3, M1 and M2 in the Pre-U If you have one A-level and two Cambridge Pre-U Principal Subjects we would expect you to have a grade A in the A-level, and D3 and M2 in the two Pre-Us. If you have two A-levels and a Cambridge Pre-U Principal Subject we would expect you to have grades AB in the 2 A-levels and D3 in the Pre-U. |
|---|---|
| Subjects | A-levels or Cambridge Pre-Us must include at least one from Biology, Chemistry or Physics. You will also normally need to pass the separate science practical assessment in at least one of the science subjects. If you are not able to take the science practical assessment, applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis. |
| GCSEs | You must have GCSE (or equivalent) English, Mathematics and two Science subjects with grade B in each (grade 5). |
International Baccalaureate
| Typical offer | 34-36 points overall from the full IB Diploma. |
|---|---|
| Subjects | Higher Levels must include at least one from Biology, Chemistry or Physics, with a grade of 5. |
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma and one A-level
| Typical offer | Grade A in A-level, and DD in Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma. |
|---|---|
| Subjects | A-level must include at least one from Biology, Chemistry or Physics. You will also normally need to pass the separate science practical assessment in at least one of the science subjects. If you are not able to take the science practical assessment, applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis. |
| GCSEs | You must have GCSE (or equivalent) English, Mathematics and two Science subjects with grade B in each (or grade 5 in the new grading scale). |
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate and two A-levels
| Typical offer | Grades AB in A-levels plus Distinction in BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate. |
|---|---|
| Subjects | A-levels must include at least one from Biology, Chemistry or Physics. You will also normally need to pass the separate science practical assessment in at least one of the science subjects. If you are not able to take the science practical assessment, applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis. |
| GCSEs | You must have GCSE (or equivalent) English, Mathematics and two Science subjects with grade B in each (or grade 5 in the new grading scale). |
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma)
| Typical offer | DDD |
|---|---|
| Subjects | In Applied Science and you will need to have opted for substantial numbers of modules in Biology or Chemistry related topics. |
| GCSEs | You must have GCSE (or equivalent) English, Mathematics and two Science subjects with grade B in each (or grade 5 in the new grading scale). |
Scottish Highers
| Typical offer | AAAAA-AAABB |
|---|---|
| Subjects | Highers must include one or two science subjects (other than Maths). Ideally, you will have at least one science subject (Biology, Chemistry or Physics) at Advanced Higher. |
| GCSEs | You will also need Scottish National 5 in English and Mathematics with grade B in each. |
Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced
| Typical offer | Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate and two A-level grades AAA – AAB |
|---|---|
| Subjects | A-levels must include at least one from Biology, Chemistry or Physics. |
| GCSEs | You must have GCSE (or equivalent) English, Mathematics and two Science subjects with grade B in each (or grade 5 in the new grading scale). |
International Baccalaureate
| Typical offer | 34-36 points overall from the full IB Diploma. |
|---|---|
| Subjects | Higher Levels must include at least one from Biology, Chemistry or Physics, with a grade of 5. |
European Baccalaureate
| Typical offer | Overall result of at least 80%-83% |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential (at least a score of 8). |
Other international qualifications
Australia
| Typical offer | Relevant state (Year 12) High School Certificate, and beween 92% to 95% in the ATAR or UAI/TER/ENTER, or a Queensland OP of 3 to 2 or better. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Austria
| Typical offer | Reifeprüfung or Matura with an overall result of 1.8 - 1.6 for first-year entry. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Belgium
| Typical offer | Certificat d'Enseignement Secondaire Supérieur (CESS) or Diploma van Hoger Secundair Onderwijs with a good overall average. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Bulgaria
| Typical offer | Diploma za Sredno Obrazovanie with excellent final-year scores (normally 5.5 overall with 6 in key subjects). |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Canada
| Typical offer | Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) 75%-80% from 6 grade 12 U, U/C or M courses |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
China
| Typical offer | We usually do not accept Senior High School Graduation for direct entry to our undergraduate courses. However, we may consider you if you have studied one year or more of Higher Education in China at a recognised degree awarding institution, or if you are following a recognised International Foundation Year. If you have the Senior High School Graduation, you may be eligible to apply for our International Foundation Year. If you successfully complete an International Foundation Year, you can progress on to a relevant undergraduate course at Sussex. Check which qualifications the International Study Centre accepts for the International Foundation Year. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Croatia
| Typical offer | Maturatna Svjedodžba with an overall score of at least 4.5 - 5. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Cyprus
| Typical offer | Apolytirion of Lykeion with an overall average of at least 19/20 will be considered for first-year entry. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Czech Republic
| Typical offer | Maturita with a good overall average. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Denmark
| Typical offer | Højere Forberedelseseksamen (HF) or studentereksamen with an overall average of at least 7 - 10 on the new grading scale. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Finland
| Typical offer | Pass Ylioppilastutkinto with overall final result of at least EEEE, which must include at least one from Biology, Chemistry or Physics. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
France
| Typical offer | French Baccalauréat with an overall final result of at least 14/20 to 15/20. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You will need to be taking the science strand within the French Baccalauréat with good results (13/20) in at least one science subject other than Mathematics. |
Germany
| Typical offer | German Abitur with an overall result of 1.8 to 1.6 or better. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results (12/15) in at least one science other than Mathematics is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.
|
Greece
| Typical offer | Apolytirion with an overall average of at least 19 will be considered for first-year entry. You must also have either Apolytirion pathway in at least one from Biology, Chemistry or Physics with a score of 19 or the Pan Hellenic in at least one from Biology, Chemistry or Physics with an overall score of 17. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Hong Kong
| Typical offer | Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) with grades of 5,5,5, to 5, 5, 4 from three subjects including two electives. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Hungary
| Typical offer | Erettsegi/Matura with a good average of at least 55555 to 55544 |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
India
| Typical offer | Standard XII results 85%-80% from ISC Indian School certificate of Education (CISCE)
|
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Iran
| Typical offer | High School Diploma and Pre-University Certificate. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Ireland
| Typical offer | Irish Leaving Certificate with grades H1 H1 H2 H2 H2 - H1,H1,H2,H2,H3 |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Highers will need to include at least one from Biology, Chemistry or Physics, with a grade H1. You must have a good level of Mathematics and English. |
Israel
| Typical offer | Bagrut, with at least 8/10 in at least six subjects, including one five-unit subject. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Italy
| Typical offer | Italian Diploma Di Maturità or Diploma Pass Di Esame Di Stato with a final Diploma mark of at least 85/100 to 90/100. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. |
Japan
| Typical offer | Upper Secondary Leaving Certificate is suitable for entry to our Foundation Years. Find out more about Foundation Years. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Latvia
| Typical offer | Atestats par Visparejo videjo Izglitibu with very good grades in state exams. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Lithuania
| Typical offer | Brandos Atestatas including scores of 80-90% in at least three state examinations (other than English). |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Luxembourg
| Typical offer | Diplôme de Fin d'Etudes Secondaires. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Malaysia
| Typical offer | Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) with grades of AAA-AAB, Mat 3.5, overall average grade from A2-B3, 75%-80%. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Netherlands
| Typical offer | Voorereidend Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs (VWO), normally with an average of at least 7. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Nigeria
| Typical offer | You are expected to have one of the following:
You must also have a score of C6 or above in WAEC/SSC English. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Norway
| Typical offer | Norwegian Vitnemal Fra Den Videregaende Opplaering - Pass with an overall average of between 4.5 to 5 |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Pakistan
| Typical offer | You can apply for direct entry to Year 1 if you are completing at least two years of Bachelor degree studies. You'll normally need to complete a Foundation year after taking Intermediate Certificate or the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC). You might choose one of our International Foundation Years at the International Study Centre on campus. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis |
Poland
| Typical offer | Pass Matura with least 3 Extended level subjects in the 80th percentile including at least one from Biology, Chemistry or Physics.
|
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Portugal
| Typical offer | Diploma de Ensino Secundario normally with an overall mark of at least 18/20. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Romania
| Typical offer | Diploma de Bacalaureat with an overall average of between 8.7 including a score of 8 in either Biology, Chemistry or Physics. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Singapore
| Typical offer | A-levels, as well as certain certificates and diplomas. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Slovakia
| Typical offer | Maturitna Skuska or Maturita with honours, normally including scores of 1 in at least three subjects. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Slovenia
| Typical offer | Secondary School Leaving Diploma or Matura with at least 25 points overall. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
South Africa
| Typical offer | National Senior Certificate with very good grades. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Spain
| Typical offer | Spanish Título de Bachillerato (LOGSE) with an overall average result of at least 8.0 - 8.5. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Sri Lanka
| Typical offer | Sri Lankan A-levels. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Sweden
| Typical offer | Fullstandigt Slutbetyg/Högskoleförberedande Examen with a total of 2,500 credits to include B grades in the majority of subjects and to include grade B in in either Biology, Chemistry or Physics.
|
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Switzerland
| Typical offer | Federal Maturity Certificate. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Turkey
| Typical offer | We'll consider students who have taken the Lise Diplomasi or Lise Bitirme, with a score of at least 4/5 or 80/100 in their final year, on a case by case basis for direct entry to year 1. Where direct entry is unsuitable, we'll automatically consider you for one of our Foundation Years. Or you might want to apply to one of our International Foundation Years at the international Study Centre on Campus. Visit isc.sussex.ac.uk/our-courses/international-foundation-year or www.sussex.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/foundation-years |
|---|
USA
| Typical offer | We look at your full profile taking into account everything you are studying, including the high school graduation diploma, Grade 12 GPA, SAT tests and subject tests and/or ACT grades We are particularly interested in AP tests and would ideally like to see 3 good AP scores Advanced Placement Tests with scores of 5,5,4 in three subjects. If you have taken the SAT reasoning tests we'd normally expect a combined score of at least 1300 and will look for around 600 in relevant subject tests. If you've taken the ACT we'd expect to see a composite score of at least 26 |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
My country is not listed
If your qualifications aren’t listed or you have a question about entry requirements, contact us
English language requirements
IELTS (Academic)
6.5 overall, including at least 6.0 in each component
IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test.
If you are applying for degree-level study we can consider your IELTS test from any test centre, but if you require a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) for an English language or pre-sessional English course (not combined with a degree) the test must be taken at a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)-approved IELTS test centre.
Other English language requirements
Proficiency tests
Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English (CAE)
For tests taken before January 2015: Grade B or above
For tests taken after January 2015: 176 overall, including at least 169 in each skill
We would normally expect the CAE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.
You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Find out more about Cambridge English: Advanced.
Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)
For tests taken before January 2015: grade C or above
For tests taken after January 2015: 176 overall, including at least 169 in each skill
We would normally expect the CPE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.
You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Find out more about Cambridge English: Proficiency.
Pearson (PTE Academic)
62 overall, including at least 56 in all four skills.
PTE (Academic) scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Find out more about Pearson (PTE Academic).
TOEFL (iBT)
88 overall, including at least 20 in Listening, 19 in Reading, 21 in Speaking, 23 in Writing.
TOEFL (iBT) scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Find out more about TOEFL (iBT).
The TOEFL Institution Code for the University of Sussex is 9166.
English language qualifications
AS/A-level (GCE)
Grade C or above in English Language.
Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (HKALE)/ AS or A Level: grade C or above in Use of English
GCE O-level
Grade C or above in English.
Brunei/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.
Singapore/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.
GCSE or IGCSE
Grade C or above in English as a First Language (grade 4 or above in GCSE from 2017).
Grade B or above in English as a Second Language
German Abitur
A score of 12 or above in English.
Ghana Senior Secondary School Certificate
If awarded before 1993: grades 1-6 in English language.
If awarded between 1993 and 2005: grades A-D in English language.
Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)
Level 4, including at least 3 in each component in English Language.
Indian School Certificate (Standard XII)
The Indian School Certificate is accepted at the grades below when awarded by the following examination boards:
Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) – English Core only: 70%
Council for Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) - English: 70%
International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB)
English A or English B at grade 5 or above.
Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education
Grades A – C in English
Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) 119/GCE O-level
If taken before the end of 2008: grades 1-5 in English Language.
If taken from 2009 onwards: grade C or above in English Language.
The qualification must be jointly awarded by the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES).
West African Senior School Certificate
Grades 1-6 in English language when awarded by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) or the National Examinations Council (NECO).
Country exceptions
Select to see the list of exempt English-speaking countries
If you are a national of one of the countries below, or if you have recently completed a qualification equivalent to a UK Bachelors degree or higher in one of these countries, you will normally meet our English requirements. Note that qualifications obtained by distance learning or awarded by studying outside these countries cannot be accepted for English language purposes.
You will normally be expected to have completed the qualification within two years before starting your course at Sussex. If the qualification was obtained earlier than this we would expect you to be able to demonstrate that you have maintained a good level of English, for example by living in an English-speaking country or working in an occupation that required you to use English regularly and to a high level.
Please note that this list is determined by the UK’s Home Office, not by the University of Sussex.
List of exempt countries
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Australia
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- Canada**
- Dominica
- Grenada
- Guyana
- Ireland
- Jamaica
- New Zealand
- St Kitts and Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad and Tobago
- United Kingdom
- USA
** Canada: you must be a national of Canada; other nationals not on this list who have a degree from a Canadian institution will not normally be exempt from needing to provide evidence of English.
Admissions information for applicants
| Transfers into Year 2 | Yes. Find out more about transferring into Year 2 of this course. We don’t accept transfers into the third or final year. |
|---|
If your qualifications aren’t listed or you have a question about entry requirements, contact us
Modules
Find out about our types of undergraduate degrees, their structure, modules and credits
Core modules
Autumn teaching
Spring teaching
- Introduction to Ecology and Conservation
- Neuroscience and Behaviour
- Research Methods for Biology, Ecology and Zoology
Options
Autumn teaching
Spring teaching
Options from other courses
At Sussex, you can choose to customise your course to build the sort of degree that will give you the knowledge, skills and experience that could take you in any direction you choose.
As part of this degree, you can explore subjects that are different to your course through electives and pathways that complement your main subject. You will either have the option to choose an elective as part of this course, or it may be necessary to choose an elective or pathway to meet the credit requirements.
Options
Autumn teaching
- Animal Behavioural Ecology
- Cell Regulation and Cancer
- Conservation Biology I
- Genetics and Genomics
- Plant Physiology and Ecology
- Principles of Neuroscience
- Structural Basis of Biological Function
Spring teaching
- Comparative Animal Physiology and Morphology
- Computing for Life Sciences
- Conservation Biology II
- Developmental Biology
- Evolutionary Biology
- Mediterranean Ecology and Behaviour Field Course
- Neural Circuits
Options from other courses
At Sussex, you can choose to customise your course to build the sort of degree that will give you the knowledge, skills and experience that could take you in any direction you choose.
As part of this degree, you can explore subjects that are different to your course through electives and pathways that complement your main subject. You will either have the option to choose an elective as part of this course, or it may be necessary to choose an elective or pathway to meet the credit requirements.
Study abroad (optional)
Apply to study abroad – you’ll develop an international perspective and gain an edge when it comes to your career. Find out where your course could take you
Placement (optional)
A placement is a great way to network and gain practical skills. When you leave Sussex, you'll benefit from having the experience employers are looking for.
Recent Life Sciences students have gone on placements at:
- AkzoNobel
- Pfizer
- the NHS.
Find out more about placements and internships.
Please note: If you’re receiving – or applying for – USA federal Direct Loan funds, you can’t transfer to the version of this program with an optional study abroad period in any country or optional placement in the USA. Find out more about American Student Loans and Federal Student Aid
Options
Autumn teaching
- Animal-Plant Interactions
- Cell Signalling and its Applications in Therapeutics and Disease
- Coral Reef Ecology Field Course
- Intelligence in Animals and Machines
- Life Sciences Year 3 Research Project (Experimental)
- Life Sciences Year 3 Research Project (Literature)
- Molecular Genetics
- Neuronal Transduction and Transmission
- Palaeozoology of Dinosaurs and Megafauna
- Regulating the Transcriptome
- Social Insects
- Tropical Rainforest Science (Field trip Ecuador)
Spring teaching
- Advanced Topics in Evolutionary Biology
- African Zoology Field Course
- Conflict & Cooperation in Social Groups
- Conservation in Practice
- Development of the Nervous System
- Endocrinology and Disease
- Evolution of Communication: from animal signals to human speech
- Genome Stability, Genetic Diseases and Cancer
- Genomics and Bioinformatics
- Human Population Genetics
- Innovation in Bioscience and Medicine
- Molecular Pharmacology
- Neuronal Plasticity and Gene Regulation
- Post Transcriptional Control of Gene Expression
- Protein Form and Function
- Sensory Function and Computation
- Structure and Function in the Brain
- Tropical Rainforests: Biogeography and Conservation
Core modules
Autumn teaching
Spring teaching
Options
Autumn teaching
- Animal-Plant Interactions (Level 7)
- Cell Signalling and its Applications in Tehrapeutics and Disease (Level 7)
- Current Topics in Evolution, Behaviour and Conservation
- Masters Tropical Rainforest Field Course
- Neuronal Transduction and Transmission (Level 7)
- Palaeozoology (Level 7)
- Regulating the Transcriptome (Level 7)
- Rewilding and Ecosystem Services
- Social Insects (Level 7)
Spring teaching
- Advanced Topics in Evolutionary Biology (Masters)
- Field Biology and Conservation Skills
- Masters African Zoology Field Course
- Masters Mediterranean Ecology and Behaviour Field Course
- Neuronal Plasticity and Gene Regulation (Level 7)
- Post Transcriptional Control of Gene Expression (Level 7)
- Protein Form and Function (Level 7)
- Structure and Function in the Brain (Level 7)
My speciality is bees and social insects, looking at how an ant colony is organised, and finding out how to control honey bee diseases.”Professor Francis Ratnieks
Professor of Apiculture (Evolution, Behaviour and Environment)
Our staff
Prof Claudio Alonso
Professor of Developmental Neurobiology
Research interests
Drosophila, Gene regulation, Hox genes
Prof Adam Eyre-Walker
Professor of Biology
Research interests
Mitochondria, Mutation, Population genetics, Transposable elements
Prof Dave Goulson
Professor Of Biology
Research interests
Animal behaviour, Animal ecology, Behavioural Ecology, Biodiversity, Conservation Ecology, Insecticides, Pollination
Prof Paul Graham
Professor of Neuroethology
Research interests
Animal behaviour, Learning, Memory, navigation, neuroethology, social insect biology, Vision
Prof Leon Lagnado
Professor Of Neuroscience 'Royal Society Wolfson Research Merit Award holder'
Research interests
Vision
Dr Jeremy Niven
Senior Lecturer in Zoology
Research interests
Animal behaviour, Behaviour and Energy Efficiency, Behavioural choice, Behavioural Neuroscience, Computational Neuroscience, Evolutionary biology, neuroethology, Sensor Integration, Sensory receptors, Systems neuroscience
Dr Mark Paget
Reader in Molecular Genetics
Research interests
Antibiotic resistance, Antibiotics, Biofuels, Gene expression, Metabolic engineering, Microbiology, Renewables, Streptomyces, Transcription
Dr Wiebke Schuett
Lecturer in Evolution Behaviour and Ecology
Research interests
Animal behaviour, Animal personality, Information ecology
Prof Michelle West
Professor of Tumour Virology
Research interests
B cells, Cancer cell biology, Cell cycle, Chromatin, Epigenetics, Transcriptional regulation, Translational regulation, Virology
Fees
- UK/EU students:
- £9,250 per year
- Channel Islands and Isle of Man students:
- £9,250 per year
- International students:
- £20,750 per year
- Study abroad:
- Find out about grants and funding, tuition fees and insurance costs for studying abroad
- Placement:
- Find out about tuition fees for placements
Note that your fees may be subject to an increase on an annual basis as the Government reviews the fee levels.
Additional costs
All costs are best estimates based on current market values. We review estimates every year and they may vary with inflation. Find out tips for budgeting as a student
Optional field trips
Optional field trips are available throughout this course. The School subsidises the trips but if you attend you'll need to pay some of the costs towards travel and, in some cases, subsistence. Costs vary depending on location and on number of courses taken, but are usually:
- Year 1: £60
- Year 2: £250
- Year 3: £450–1,000
- Year 4: £250–1,000.
Find out about typical living costs for studying at Sussex
Find out about our terms and conditions
Scholarships
Our goal is to ensure that every student who wants to study with us is able to regardless of financial barriers, so that we continue to attract talented and unique people.
Article 26 Scholarship
Full overseas tuition fee waiver plus £3,000 maintenance per year of study.
Care Leavers Award for Students Starting in 2019
£3,000 per year with an additional £500 in your first year of study.
EU Excellence Scholarship
You receive a £2,000 cash award, paid as two separate payments of £1,000.
First-Generation Scholars Scheme for Students Starting in 2019
£2,000 in your first year of study (Foundation Year or Year 1) if your household income is £25,000 or below. £1,000 in your first year of study if your household income is between £25,001 and £42,875.
In subsequent years all eligible students receive £1,000 if you are studying on the Sussex campus.
Sports Scholarships Scheme (Undergraduate)
Recipients of the scholarship can receive between £500-£1,250 per year as well as a range of other benefits.
Sussex Excellence Scholarship
You receive £2,000 cash maintenance during your first year of study.
You receive the scholarship during your first year, as two identical payments of £1,000. The first is paid in November 2019 and the second in March 2020.
Careers
Graduate destinations
Recent Life Sciences graduates have taken up a range of roles, including:
- research consultant, Medical Action Myanmar
- production lab technician, Thermo Fisher Scientific
- graduate management trainee, NHS Leadership Academy.
(Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education Survey 2017)
Your future career
Throughout your course, transferable skills such as time management, communication and numerical and data analysis are embedded within the modules. You also develop your problem-solving and team-working abilities.
You can use your Biology degree for careers in areas including:
- environment, energy and utilities
- patents, regulation and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG)
- health and biotechnology.
At Sussex, you can access careers support in the form of one-to-one appointments, drop-in clinics, exclusive jobs listings and talks given by industry professionals. This support continues after you’ve graduated.
Working while you study
Our Careers and Employability Centre can help you find part-time work while you study. Find out more about career development and part-time work