Key information
- Duration:
- 4 years full time
- Typical A-level offer:
- AAB
- Contextual A-level offer:
- ABB-BBB
- UCAS code:
- F3FM
- Start date:
- September 2022
- =1st in the UK for Career after 15 Months in Physics (The Guardian University Guide 2022)
- =4th in the UK for Graduate Prospects – Outcomes in Physics and Astronomy (Complete University Guide 2022)
- 13th in the UK for Physics (The Guardian University Guide 2022)
If you want to gain a broad understanding of physics while exploring astrophysics, this course is for you.
You'll learn from experts working at the forefront of astrophysics, from exploring dark energy to the early universe. You study modules based on the latest research, from quantum mechanics to particle physics. You have opportunities to work alongside our world-leading faculty on ground-breaking discoveries. This is through your final year project and various research placement opportunities. During your integrated Masters year you develop advanced physical skills by working with a departmental research group.
During your course, you’ll:
- develop transferable skills
- get dedicated careers and CV advice
- have opportunities to meet potential employers.
Accreditation
- Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) for the purpose of fully meeting the educational requirement for Chartered Physicist. Find out more
We understand that deciding where and what to study is a very important decision. We’ll make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities described in this prospectus. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to significant disruption, or in response to COVID-19, we’ll let our students know as soon as possible.
MPhys or BSc?
We also offer this course as a three-year BSc. Find out about the benefits of an integrated Masters year.
Find out about Reese’s experience as a Physics student at Sussex
Open Days and virtual visits
Meet us on campus or online
Entry requirements
A-level
| Typical offer | AAB |
|---|---|
| Contextual offer | ABB-BBB Not everyone has the same support to get to higher education – we help you reach your potential. When we receive applications through UCAS, we consider all factors and will sometimes make contextual offers as part of our Access and Participation Plan |
| Subjects | A-levels must include Mathematics and Physics.
|
| GCSEs | You should have a broad range of GCSEs 9-4 (A*-C), including good grades in relevant subjects. |
| 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
| Subjects |
|
|---|
Cambridge Pre-U Principle Subjects (including A-level mixes)
| Typical offer | D3, M1 and M2 If you have one A-level and two Cambridge Pre-U Principal Subjects we would expect you to have grade B at A-level and, D3 and M1 in two Pre-Us. If you have two A-levels and a Cambridge Pre-U Principal Subject we would normally expect you to have grades AA at A-level and D3 in the Pre-U. |
|---|---|
| Subjects | You must have either Mathematics at A-level and Physics or as a Cambridge Pre-U Principal subjects.
|
| GCSEs | You should have a broad range of GCSEs grade 9-4 (A*-C), including good grades in relevant subjects. |
International Baccalaureate
| Typical offer | 34 points overall from the full IB Diploma. |
|---|---|
| Subjects | Higher Levels must include Mathematics, with a grade of 6 and Higher level Physics. For entry in 2021, either Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches or Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation at Higher Level will be accepted.
|
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate and two A-levels
| Typical offer | Grades AA in A-levels plus Distinction in BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate. |
|---|---|
| Contextual offer | Grades AB in A-levels plus Distinction in BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate. Not everyone has the same support to get to higher education – we help you reach your potential. When we receive applications through UCAS, we consider all factors and will sometimes make contextual offers as part of our Access and Participation Plan |
| Subjects | A-levels must include Mathematics and Physics. |
| GCSEs | You should have a broad range of GCSEs 9-4 (A*-C), including good grades in relevant subjects. |
Scottish Highers
| Typical offer | AAABB |
|---|---|
| Subjects | Highers must include Mathematics and Physics. Applicants must also have Advanced Highers in Mathematics and Physics. |
Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced
| Typical offer | AAB from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate and two A-levels
|
|---|---|
| Subjects | A-levels must include Mathematics and Physics. |
| GCSEs | You should have a broad range of GCSEs A*-C (9-4), including good grades in relevant subjects. |
International Baccalaureate
| Typical offer | 34 points overall from the full IB Diploma. |
|---|---|
| Subjects | Higher Levels must include Mathematics, with a grade of 6 and Higher level Physics. For entry in 2021, either Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches or Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation at Higher Level will be accepted.
|
European Baccalaureate
| Typical offer | Overall result of at least 80% |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in Mathematics is essential (normally with a final grade of at least 8.5) and Higher level Physics. |
Other international qualifications
Australia
| Typical offer | Relevant state (Year 12) High School Certificate, and 92% in the ATAR or UAI/TER/ENTER, or a Queensland OP of 3 or better. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics 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 or better for first-year entry. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics 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. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential. 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). |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential. |
Canada
| Typical offer | Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) 75% from 6 grade 12 U, U/C or M courses |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
China
| Typical offer | If you have the Goakao, we will consider applications for direct entry to first year. You would normally need an overall average of 75%, including required subjects. We are also pleased to consider applications if you are following a recognised International Foundation Year or you have one or more years of Higher Education in China at a recognised degree awarding institution. The Senior High School Graduation alone would not be sufficient for entry to our undergraduate degrees, but 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. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential. 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 4.5 |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics 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 19/20 and above will be considered for first-year entry. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics 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 existing high levels of academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics 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 existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics 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 EEMM |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
France
| Typical offer | French Baccalauréat with overall final result of at least 14/20. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You will need to be taking the science strand within the French Baccalaureat with a final result of at least 14/20 in Mathematics. Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis. |
Germany
| Typical offer | German Abitur with an overall result of 1.8 or better. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You will need to achieve a final mark of at least 14/15 in Mathematics. Evidence of existing academic ability Physics is preferable. 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 Mathematics with a score of 19 or the Pan Hellenic in Mathematics with an overall score of 17. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis. 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, 4 from three subjects including two electives |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must have some advanced/higher level ability in Mathematics, and will need to complete both the Compulsory and Extended Mathematics components. Advanced/higher-level ability in Physics is desirable. 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. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
India
| Typical offer | Standard XII results
|
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Iran
| Typical offer | 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 |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of existing high levels of academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics 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 (Higher Level) at H1,H1,H2,H2,H3. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements |
Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics (H1) and Physics is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Israel
| Typical offer | For first year entry at least 80% (or 8/10) in at least 6 subjects, including one 5 unit subject, in one sitting of the Bagrut. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in Mathematics to a high level is essential. Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants 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 85/100. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Japan
| Typical offer | 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 |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of existing high levels of academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics 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. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential. 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). |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Luxembourg
| Typical offer | Pass the Diplome de Fin d’Etudes Secondaires with 48 points overall |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential. 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 AAB, Maticulation 3.5, UEC overall average grade A2 78%.
|
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics 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 8. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential. 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. 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 |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of existing high levels of academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics 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 4.5 |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics 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 existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics 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 including Mathematics in the 80th percentile.
|
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential. 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 18/20. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics 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 8.7 including a score of 8 in Mathematics |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Russia
| Typical offer | Applicants who have good grades in the Attestat o Srednem Obrazovami (Certificate of Secondary Education) and who have successfully completed the first year of a Russian University degree, with a minimum GPA of 4.0, will be considered for admission to the first year of our bachelor’s degree courses. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of existing high levels of academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential. |
| Please note | 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 existing high levels of academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential. |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Slovakia
| Typical offer | Pass Vysvedčenie o maturitnej skúške (Maturita) with an average grade of 1.5 from 4 subjects including Mathematics. A Physics qualification is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis without it. |
|---|
Slovenia
| Typical offer | Secondary School Leaving Diploma or Matura with at least 25 points overall. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics 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 existing high levels of academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics 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 |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics (8/10) and Physics 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 existing high levels of academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics 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 A and B grades in the majority of subjects and to include grade A in Mathematics.
|
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential. 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 existing high levels of academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics 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 |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
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 three 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 existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics 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)
6.0 overall, including at least 5.5 in each component
Check your IELTS qualification meets all of our language requirements
Other English language requirements
Proficiency tests
Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English (CAE)
169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill
Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)
169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill
Duolingo English test
105 overall, with no component score below 90
Check your Duolingo English test qualification meets all of our language requirements
Pearson (PTE Academic)
59 overall, including at least 59 in all four skills.
Check your Pearson (PTE Academic) qualification meets all of our language requirements
TOEFL (iBT)
80 overall, including at least 17 in Listening, 18 in Reading, 20 in Speaking, 17 in Writing.
Check your TOEFL qualification meets all of our language requirements
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
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% or Grade 3
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
| Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) for international students | |
|---|---|
| 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
For details on any additional costs, check out the Fees and scholarships section.
Don’t meet our entry requirements?
If you don't meet our entry requirements, we recommend our in-house Foundation Year course to prepare you for Year 1 of your chosen degree:
If you don't have the required language skills for this course you could consider the International Study Centre. The ISC offers a range of foundation courses in combination with English language teaching.
Modules
This is a major/minor course, enabling you to study in depth in a core area (your major subject: taking up 75% of your time), while also exploring an additional area (your minor subject: taking up 25% of your time).
Find out about our types of undergraduate degrees, their structure, modules and credits
We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2022/23. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to COVID-19, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let our applicants know of material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.
We’ll do our best to provide as much optional choice as we can, but timetabling constraints mean it may not be possible to take some module combinations. The structure of a small number of courses means that the order of modules or the streams you choose may determine whether modules are core or optional. This means that your core modules or options may differ from what’s shown below.
Core modules
Core modules are taken by all students on the course. They give you a solid grounding in your chosen subject and prepare you to explore the topics that interest you most.
Autumn teaching
Spring teaching
- Introduction to Astrophysics
- Mathematical Methods for Physics 2
- Oscillations, Waves and Optics
- Physics Year 1 Laboratory
Options
Alongside your core modules, you can choose options to broaden your horizons and tailor your course to your interests. This list gives you a flavour of our options, which are kept under review and may change, for example in response to student feedback or the latest research.
While it’s our aim for students to take their preferred combinations of options, this can’t be guaranteed and will be subject to timetabling. Options may be grouped and if so, students will be able to choose a set number of options from the selection available in any particular group.
Autumn teaching
Explore modules from other subjects
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.
We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2022/23. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to COVID-19, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let our applicants know of material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.
We’ll do our best to provide as much optional choice as we can, but timetabling constraints mean it may not be possible to take some module combinations. The structure of a small number of courses means that the order of modules or the streams you choose may determine whether modules are core or optional. This means that your core modules or options may differ from what’s shown below.
Core modules
Core modules are taken by all students on the course. They give you a solid grounding in your chosen subject and prepare you to explore the topics that interest you most.
Autumn teaching
Spring teaching
Options
Alongside your core modules, you can choose options to broaden your horizons and tailor your course to your interests. This list gives you a flavour of our options, which are kept under review and may change, for example in response to student feedback or the latest research.
While it’s our aim for students to take their preferred combinations of options, this can’t be guaranteed and will be subject to timetabling. Options may be grouped and if so, students will be able to choose a set number of options from the selection available in any particular group.
Autumn teaching
Explore modules from other subjects
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)
To help you gain experience and increase your employability, you can apply for an optional placement as part of your course. You’ll be responsible for applying for and securing your placement. Our dedicated careers team can provide you with information and advice. If you’re successful in obtaining a placement, this will form part of your course.
Find out more about placements and internships
Recent Mathematical and Physical Sciences students have gone on placements at:
- Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Ltd
- NATS Holdings
- HEFCE.
SEPnet Employer Programme
We are a core part of the SEPnet (South East Physics Network) consortium, which gives us links to universities and industries across the region. SEPnet’s Employer Programme creates opportunities for our students to apply for eight-week funded summer placements.
Find out more at Department of Physics and Astronomy: South East Physics Network (SEPnet)
My research placement taught me new methods of study skills, teamwork skills, and it gave me a lot of insight into the topic.”Jussi Kuusisto
Physics with Astrophysics MPhys
Please note: If you’re receiving – or applying for – USA federal Direct Loan funds, you can’t transfer to the version of your course with an optional study abroad period in any country or optional placement in the USA if the number of credits for the placement/internship exceeds 25% of the total credits for your course. Find out more about American Student Loans and Federal Student Aid
We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2022/23. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to COVID-19, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let our applicants know of material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.
We’ll do our best to provide as much optional choice as we can, but timetabling constraints mean it may not be possible to take some module combinations. The structure of a small number of courses means that the order of modules or the streams you choose may determine whether modules are core or optional. This means that your core modules or options may differ from what’s shown below.
Core modules
Core modules are taken by all students on the course. They give you a solid grounding in your chosen subject and prepare you to explore the topics that interest you most.
Autumn teaching
Spring teaching
Options
Alongside your core modules, you can choose options to broaden your horizons and tailor your course to your interests. This list gives you a flavour of our options, which are kept under review and may change, for example in response to student feedback or the latest research.
While it’s our aim for students to take their preferred combinations of options, this can’t be guaranteed and will be subject to timetabling. Options may be grouped and if so, students will be able to choose a set number of options from the selection available in any particular group.
Spring teaching
We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2022/23. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to COVID-19, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let our applicants know of material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.
We’ll do our best to provide as much optional choice as we can, but timetabling constraints mean it may not be possible to take some module combinations. The structure of a small number of courses means that the order of modules or the streams you choose may determine whether modules are core or optional. This means that your core modules or options may differ from what’s shown below.
Core modules
Core modules are taken by all students on the course. They give you a solid grounding in your chosen subject and prepare you to explore the topics that interest you most.
Autumn teaching
Autumn and spring teaching
Options
Alongside your core modules, you can choose options to broaden your horizons and tailor your course to your interests. This list gives you a flavour of our options, which are kept under review and may change, for example in response to student feedback or the latest research.
While it’s our aim for students to take their preferred combinations of options, this can’t be guaranteed and will be subject to timetabling. Options may be grouped and if so, students will be able to choose a set number of options from the selection available in any particular group.
Autumn teaching
- Atom Light Interactions
- Data Analysis Techniques
- Further Quantum Mechanics
- Galactic Astrophysics
- General Relativity
- Programming in C++
- Quantum Field Theory 1
- Quantum Optics and Quantum Information
Spring teaching
Find out more about studying Physics at Sussex, including astrophysics, theoretical physics and particle physics
Our staff
I try to understand how the first stars and galaxies formed in the early universe. To do this I use both observations, mostly taken from the Hubble Space Telescope, and super-computer simulations.”Dr Stephen Wilkins
Senior Lecturer in Astronomy
Fees
- Home students:
- £9,250 per year
- Channel Islands and Isle of Man students:
- £9,250 per year
- International students:
- £22,500 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.
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.
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Article 26 Scholarship
- Full international tuition fee waiver
- £11,500 maintenance per year of undergraduate study (up to 4 years)
- Sussexsport membership
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Chancellor's International Scholarships
£5,000 per year of full time study
-
Climate Leaders Scholarship
£3,000 cash per year of full time study
Successful applicants are also provided with mentoring support and invited to co-organise an annual event to engage and educate students and the wider community in tackling the climate crisis.
-
Dr John Birch Music Scholarship (Organ)
£800 cash award. In addition, the selected recipient will receive access to the music practice rooms in the School of Media, Arts and Humanities (MAH). All applicants who reach the audition stage, regardless of the success of their application, will be offered the opportunity to be part of a list of performers who are willing to perform at events around campus or are interested in collaboration with other musicians.
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Dr John Birch Music Scholarships
£800 cash award. In addition, scholars will receive access to the music practice rooms in the School of Media, Arts and Humanities (MAH). All applicants who reach the audition stage, regardless of the success of their application, will be offered the opportunity to be part of a list of performers who are willing to perform at events around campus or are interested in collaboration with other musicians.
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Sports Scholarships Scheme
Recipients of the scholarship can receive between £500-£1,250 per year as well as a range of other benefits.
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Sussex Bursary
£1,000 in your first year of study (either Year 1 or Foundation Year).
£500 in subsequent years.
Careers
We are a core part of the SEPnet (South East Physics Network) consortium, which gives us links to universities and industries across the region.
Our courses help you develop versatile skills. With careers fairs, forums and a dedicated careers officer we support your career development from day one.
Our graduates find employment in a diverse range of fields, including geophysics, aerospace, consulting, teaching, and the scientific Civil Service. Many of our graduates go on to postgraduate research and PhD study.
Graduate destinations
Recent Physics and Astronomy graduates have started their careers as:
- SAP applications consultant at Capgemini
- geophysicist at CGG
- graduate diagnostic physicist at Diamond Light Source.
Some of our graduates have also gone on to study for a postgraduate qualification (for example a PhD, MSc or PGCE).
(Department of Physics and Astronomy careers database)
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