Sustainable Automotive Engineering (with an industrial placement year) MEng

Key information

Duration:
5 years full time
Typical A-level offer:
AAB
View full entry requirements
UCAS code:
H31F
Start date:
September 2025
  • 87.9% of our research outputs in Engineering were assessed to be world leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021) 

Sustainability is becoming more and more important in the automotive industry. Car manufacturers and suppliers are considering how to implement sustainable processes in the development and manufacture of new vehicles.

At Sussex, we cover many aspects of sustainable automotive engineering. On this course, you’ll:

  • gain fundamental engineering knowledge including materials, manufacturing processes, mechanics and electrical circuits
  • learn CAD modelling, programming and numerical modelling
  • explore low-emission vehicle propulsion, new-generation vehicle technology, electrical drive systems and vehicle dynamics.

Our research feeds directly into our teaching. You’ll benefit from our work in the Dynamics, Control, and Vehicle research group. Research projects include automotive on-board diagnostics systems, intelligent controllers and autonomous vehicles.

You’ll study in our Future Technologies Labs that incorporate computer suites and new automation/robotics facilities. There’s also a dedicated manufacturing lab with facilities such as CNC machines and 3-D printers. In our Formula Student projects, you’ll get the chance to be part of a team to design and build an electric single-seat racing car and enter it into a competition.

During your time at Sussex, you’ll be supported by dedicated academic advisers, as well as a team of student mentors. In addition, you’ll benefit from our links to world-leading automotive companies. As a graduate, you’ll have the knowledge and skills to meet the challenges and changes in the automotive industry, including those related to sustainability.

Accreditation

Our courses are accredited to include the 2023 intake. We are currently in the process of securing re-accreditation for the 2024 intake onwards, according to the rules of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, which require periodic re-accreditation.

    To help you gain experience and increase your employability, you can apply for an optional placement as part of your course. This can be a fantastic opportunity to gain real-life insight into industry as well as skills valued by employers. You’ll be responsible for applying for and securing your placement. Our dedicated careers team can help you:

    • find an employer
    • draft an application
    • prepare for interviews.

    Don’t worry if you’re not successful, you’ll simply transfer to a non-placement version of your course.

    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 government or regulatory requirements, or unanticipated staff changes, we’ll let you know as soon as possible.

    MEng or BEng?

    We also offer this course as a four-year MEng without the industrial placement year, as a three-year BEng, or as a four-year BEng with an industrial placement yearFind out about the benefits of an integrated Masters year.

    Open Days and virtual visits

    Meet us on campus or online

    Book your place

    Entry requirements

    A-level

    Typical offer

    AAB

    Contextual offerView contextual offer

    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.

    GCSEs

    You should have a broad range of GCSEs grade 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

    Typical offer

    Pass Diploma with at least 39 level 3 credits at Merit or above including 27 credits at Distinction

    Subjects

    You will normally need A-level Mathematics, grade B, in addition to the Access to HE Diploma.

    Additional requirements

    All Access applicants will be assessed on a case by case basis. 

    Cambridge Pre-U Principal Subjects (including A-level mixes)

    Typical offer

    D3, D3 and M2 in the Pre-U

    If you have one A-level and two Cambridge Pre-U Principle 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 Cambridge Pre-U Principle Subjects, we would normally expect you to have grades AB in the two A-levels and D3 in the Pre-U. 

    Subjects

    You must have either Mathematics at A-level or Cambridge Pre-U Principal subject.

    GCSEs

    You should have a broad range of GCSEs grades 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 5.

    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 Diploma and one A-level

    Typical offer

    Grade A in A-level and DD in Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma.

    Contextual offerView contextual offer

    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-level must be Mathematics. 

    GCSEs

    You should have a broad range of GCSEs grades 9-4 (A*-C), including good grades in relevant subjects.

    Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate and two A-levels

    Typical offer

    Grades AB in A-levels and Distinction in BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate. 

    Contextual offerView contextual offer

    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.

    GCSEs

    You should have a broad range of GCSEs grades 9-4 (A*-C), including good grades in relevant subjects

    Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma)

    Typical offer

    DDD 

    Contextual offerView contextual offer

    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

    The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma should be in Engineering and must include a Distinction in Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems or if taking the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering you must gain a Distinction in the Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians.

    GCSEs

    GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics with at least grade 5 is essential (or grade B).

    You should also 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, grade A. We would normally expect you to have an Advanced Higher in Mathematics (grade B).

    Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced

    Typical offer

    AAB from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate and two A-levels

     

     

    Subjects

    A-levels must include Mathematics.

    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 5.

    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 80%

    Additional requirements

    Evidence of existing academic ability at a high level in Mathematics is essential (normally with a final grade of at least 8.0).

    Other international qualifications

    Australia

    Typical offer

    Relevant state (Year 12) High School Certificate, and over 92% in the ATAR or UAI/TER/ENTER. Or a Queensland OP of 3 or below.

    Additional requirements

    Evidence of existing academic ability at a high level in Mathematics 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 at a high level in Mathematics 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

    Good grades in subject areas.

    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).

    Canada

    Typical offer

     Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) 75% from 6 grade 12 U, U/C or M courses

    British Columbia Certificate of Graduation AAABB from 5 grade 12 courses

    We also recognise the High School Diploma from other provinces -including Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick- where we look for strong performance in grade 12 subjects, and the Diplome d'Etudes Collegiales (DEC) from Quebec.

    Additional requirements

    Evidence of existing academic ability at a high level in Mathematics is essential.

    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

    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 at a high level in Mathematics is essential.

    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 at a high level in Mathematics 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 academic ability at a high level in Mathematics 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 8 on the new grading scale.

    Additional requirements

    Evidence of existing academic ability at a high level in Mathematics 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 at a high level in Mathematics 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 Baccalauréat with a final result of at least 13/20 in Mathematics.

    Germany

    Typical offer

    German Abitur with an overall result of 1.8 or better.

    Additional requirements

    You will need a very good final result in Mathematics (at least 12/15).

    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

    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.

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Hungary

    Typical offer

    Erettsegi/Matura with a good averageof at least 55544.

    Additional requirements

    Evidence of existing academic ability at a high level in Mathematics is essential.

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    India

    Typical offer

    Standard XII results

    80% from ISC Indian School certificate of Education (CISCE)
    80% from SSC All India Senior School Certificate Examination (CBSE)
    80% HSC higher Secondary Certificate ( Maharashtra )

    Additional requirements

    Evidence of existing academic ability at a high level in Mathematics 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 academic ability at a high level in Mathematics 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

    Highers must include Mathematics, grade H1.

    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.

    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 85/100.

    Additional requirements

    Evidence of existing academic ability at a high level in Mathematics is essential.

    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 academic ability at a high level in Mathematics 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 at a high level in Mathematics is essential.

    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 at a high level in Mathematics is essential.

    Luxembourg

    Typical offer

    Pass the Diplome de Fin d’Etudes Secondaires with 48 points overall

    Additional requirements

    Evidence of existing academic ability in Mathematics to the highest level 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 at a high level in Mathematics 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 at a high level in Mathematics is essential

    Nigeria

    Typical offer

    You are expected to have one of the following:

    • Higher National Diploma
    • One year at a recognised Nigerian University
    • Professional Diploma (Part IV) from the Institute of Medical Laboratory Technology of Nigeria
    • Advanced Diploma

    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 academic ability at a high level in Mathematics 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 at a high level in Mathematics is essential.

    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 at a high level in Mathematics is essential.

    Poland

    Typical offer

    Pass Matura with least 3 Extended level subjects including Mathematics in the 80th percentile.

     

    Additional requirements

    Please note: 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 at a high level in Mathematics 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


    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 academic ability at a high level in Mathematics 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 academic ability at a high level in Mathematics 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.

     

     

    Additional requirements

    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 existing academic ability at a high level in Mathematics 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 academic ability at a high level in Mathematics 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 at a high level in Mathematics is essential.

    Sri Lanka

    Typical offer

    Sri Lankan A-levels.

    Subject-specific knowledge

    Evidence of existing academic ability at a high level in Mathematics 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

    Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

    Switzerland

    Typical offer

    Federal Maturity Certificate.

    Additional requirements

    Evidence of existing academic ability at a high level in Mathematics is essential.

    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 at a high level in Mathematics is essential.

    USA

    Typical offer

    We look at your full profile considering everything you are studying, including the High School Graduation Diploma, Grade 12 GPA, SAT tests and subject tests and/or ACT grades and AP tests. We expect to see a combination of these qualifications.

    Alongside your High School Graduation Diploma, we would ideally like to see 3 good AP scores with either, a combined SAT test score (evidence-based reading and writing and mathematics) of 1300, or a combined ACT score of 26

    AP and SAT Subject tests

    Please check the individual course pages for our typical A-level offer and see below for the corresponding scores we would require from AP test scores:

    A Level requirements

    AP test grades

    AAA

    555

    AAB

    554

    ABB

    544

    BBB

    444

     

    We will also accept a combination of any 3 AP tests and SAT subject test where a score of 600 in an SAT subject test can be substituted for an AP test in the above table

    If you are applying for a degree with an A level subject requirement in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry or Biology will normally need to hold an AP test in that subject.

    College level credits

    We also accept college level 3-credit courses in academic subjects as the equivalent of a UK A Level on a case by case basis.  These can be combined with AP tests and or SAT subject tests

    Associate degrees

    An Associate degree with a GPA of 3.0 will meet our entry requirements for year 1.

    Foundation Year entry

    Students who have a High School Diploma and SAT or ACT tests only would be eligible to apply for our Foundation Year

     

     

    Additional requirements

    Evidence of existing academic ability at a high level in Mathematics 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

    Find out more about IELTS

    IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course.

    We accept IELTS One Skills Retake.

    We do not accept IELTS Online.

    Other English language requirements

    Proficiency tests

    Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English (CAE)

    169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill

    Check your Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English (CAE) qualification meets all of our language requirements

    Find out more about Cambridge English: Advanced.

    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.

    Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)

    169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill

    Check your Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) qualification meets all of our language requirements

    Find out more about Cambridge English: Proficiency.

    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.

    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

    Find out more about Pearson (PTE Academic).

    Please refer to our English language requirements above, and as listed for each of our undergraduate courses, to find the appropriate English level for the course you are applying for.

    PTE (Academic) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course.

    We do not accept the PTE Academic Online test.

    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).

    TOEFL (iBT) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course.

    We do not accept TOEFL (iBT) Home Edition.

    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

    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.

    Modules

    This is a single-honours course, allowing you to focus in depth on your core subject.

    Find out about our types of undergraduate degrees, their structure, modules and credits

    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.

    Global Design Challenge

    You join all first-year students in the School of Engineering and Informatics in a team-based, week-long activity, the Global Design Challenge. Each team designs a solution to a problem faced by a community in the developing world. You develop transferable skills, benefiting both your studies and your future employability.

    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 2024/25. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let you know of any 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 here.

    Check back in January 2025 for more details of the modules running in the academic year 2025/26.

    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.

    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 2024/25. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let you know of any 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 here.

    Check back in January 2025 for more details of the modules running in the academic year 2025/26.

    An industrial placement gives you the chance to spend a year working with an organisation, in an area relevant to your course, while being paid. It’s a proven way to fast-track your career.

    Recent students have gone on placements at:

    • Ricardo
    • Timberwolf
    • Vauxhall Motors.

    You develop your technical, team-working and transferable skills, and apply what you have learnt in your studies to a business environment.

    Find out more about placements and internships

    Our careers team offers dedicated support to help you obtain a placement, including:

    • finding an employer
    • drafting an application
    • preparing for interviews
    • ongoing help throughout a placement.

    Don’t worry if you’re not successful in securing a placement, you’ll simply transfer to a non-placement version of your course.

    Please note that if you’re receiving – or applying for – USA federal Direct Loan funds, you can’t undertake your 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

    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.

    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.

    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 2024/25. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let you know of any 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 here.

    Check back in January 2025 for more details of the modules running in the academic year 2025/26.

    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.

    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.

    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 2024/25. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let you know of any 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 here.

    Check back in January 2025 for more details of the modules running in the academic year 2025/26.

    Societies and partnerships

    You’ll be welcomed into our active, student-run engineering societies, and benefit from our partnerships with:

     

    Studying Engineering at Sussex

    TEF 2023 silver

    Silver

    The student experience and student outcomes are typically very high quality.
    This rating was awarded in 2023, for four years.
    (Teaching Excellence Framework 2023)

    Find out more about our approach to teaching and supporting you to thrive

    Our staff

    My favourite part of teaching is when my students connect the theory we’ve explored to real-life engineering issues. Finding innovative solutions is a great motivation!Dr Esra Sorguven
    Senior Lecturer in Fluid Mechanics and Thermodynamics

    Fees

    Fees are not yet set for the academic year 2025/26 – please check back in September 2024. Note that your fees, once they’re set, may be subject to an increase on an annual basis.

    Find out about typical living costs for studying at Sussex

    Find out about our terms and conditions

    Scholarships

    Details of our scholarships are not yet set for entry in the academic year 2025/26.

    Careers

    Throughout your studies, you’ll develop skills such as:

    • critical analysis
    • creative problem-solving
    • effective communication
    • teamwork. 

    As a graduate, these skills and your specialist knowledge will help you secure technical and managerial jobs in the automotive and other industries. Some of our graduates are now working at:

    • Jaguar Land Rover
    • Rolls-Royce cars
    • Ricardo
    • Ford Motor Company
    • Edwards Vacuum
    • Thales.

    Working while you study

    Our Careers and Entrepreneurship team can help you find part-time work while you study. Find out more about career development and part-time work

    I started off as an analyst in the automotive industry helping to inform trends on new vehicle technology – I wouldn’t have got this job without my degree.”Jack Bergquist
    UK Automotive Lead, GfK

    A-level - contextual offer

    BBB

    Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma and one A-level - contextual offer

    Grade B in A-level and DD in Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma.

    Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate and two A-levels - contextual offer

    Grades BB in A-levels and Distinction in BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate. 

    Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma) - contextual offer

    DDM

    Return to top of page

    Contact us

    Ask a student

    Chat to Sussex students online via the UniBuddy chat platform.

    Enquiries

    Contact us with any questions about your course.

    +44 (0)1273 876787
    Ask us a question

    Find out about the Department of Engineering and Design

    Explore our campus

    Experience Sussex life in our virtual tour.

    Start your virtual tour