Variation of study takes place where students vary their modules from those published as part of the validated course of study. Requests for a variation of study can be exceptionally permitted upon application and can be approved subject to the necessary criteria being met.

UNDERGRADUATE (LEVELS 3-6)

Variation of study is not normally permitted at level 3 or levels 4 - 6, since students are provided with extensive choice through Sussex Choice. There are limited circumstances in which undergraduate students can apply to vary their study:

i. To incorporate a study abroad semester during stage 2.

For more information on a study abroad semester, things to consider and how to apply, please see the information on the Sussex Abroad website by following this link

ii. To allow a student to vary up to 30 credits at level 6 in the final stage, to enable the completion of a pathway.

This type of variation primarily occurs where a student has taken a 60-credit pathway in stages 1 and 2 and wishes to extend the pathway to a 90-credit minor in the final stage, where a minor exists. For more information about 90-credit pathways on offer and how to extend a 60-credit pathway to 90 credits please see the FAQs on Sussex Choice by following this link.

If you would like to apply to extend your pathway, please download and complete this application form.

iii. To enable students to replace a failed 15 credit module with the mark of a module taken from the International Summer School portfolio, at the appropriate level.

For more information on International Summer School modules and to apply to take a module from their portfolio, please download and complete this application form.

 

When considering any request for variation study the Director of Teaching and Learning (DTL) must ensure that the learning outcomes of any core modules that will be replaced can be met and that the level and credit volume of study continues to be academically appropriate. An application for a variation of study may be rejected on the grounds of academic judgement where the DTL takes into account the proposed variation and/or the academic performance of an individual student. The requirements of a PSRB will take precedence to any request for a variation.

POSTGRADUATE (LEVEL 7)

Variation of study of up to a total of 30 credits is permitted at level 7, to facilitate interdisciplinarity but only where timetabling permits.

Students in the final stage of an Integrated Masters Degree may apply for a variation of study, so long as the proposed module is at level 7. No level 6 credits may be taken in this stage.

Approval for this type change must be obtained from the module convenor, course convenor, and Director of Teaching and Learning (DTL). Applications for a variation of study may be rejected based on academic judgement regarding the proposed variation and/or the academic performance of the student. The DTL must ensure that the learning outcomes of any core modules missed can be met and that the level and credit volume of study is academically appropriate. The requirements of a PSRB will take precedence to any request for a variation.

To apply for a variation of study at level 7 please download and complete this application form.