Key information
- Duration:
- 3 years full time
- Typical A-level offer:
- AAB
View full entry requirements - UCAS code:
- F300
- Start date:
- September 2025
- 7th in the UK for our research environment in Physics in REF 2021 (Times Higher Education)
- Top 20 in the UK for Physics (Guardian University Guide 2025)
From subatomic particles to entire galaxies, physics allows us to explore the big questions, while having a significant impact on our daily lives.
At Sussex, you’ll explore fascinating subjects, learning from world-leading researchers. Their work includes developing next-generation quantum computers, investigating quantum gravity and black holes, searching for fundamental particles at CERN and studying our universe from the Big Bang to modern times. You could be working with researchers who are part of a team using NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope. Your teaching and modules are directly influenced by our research.
You’ll use the latest equipment and state-of-the-art laboratories, and gain a broad understanding of the core principles of physics. Options enable you to specialise in areas you find most fascinating. You’ll apply this knowledge across a range of areas including:
- astrophysics
- quantum physics
- particle physics
- materials science
- mathematical physics.
From sustainability to economics and modern languages, you take electives from other subjects to open your mind to other disciplines and tailor your degree to your interests. You’ll also work with one of our expert research teams. You could be making exciting discoveries during your final-year project.
Our department is a friendly hive of activity. You’ll join a close-knit community. Our open-door policy means that whatever you need, we’ll be there to support you.
By graduation, you’ll have developed skills much in demand with employers. You’ll gain an analytical approach to problem solving, data analysis skills and solid research skills. Your training will open doors to exciting careers in:
- research
- finance
- industry.
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 government or regulatory requirements, or unanticipated staff changes, we’ll let you know as soon as possible.
MPhys or BSc?
We also offer this course as a four-year degree with an industrial placement year, as a four-year MPhys, as a four-year MPhys with research placements, or as a five-year MPhys with an industrial placement year. Find out about the benefits of an integrated Masters year.
Entry requirements
A-level
| Typical offer | AAB |
|---|---|
| Contextual offer | View 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 grade B Physics A-level is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis without it. |
| 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 18-21 credits at Distinction |
|---|---|
| Subjects | In addition to the Access to HE Diploma, you will also need an A-level in Mathematics, with at least grade B.
|
Cambridge Pre-U Principal Subjects (including A-level mixes)
| Typical offer | M1 M2 M2 If you have one A-level and two Cambridge Pre-U Principal Subjects we would expect you to have grade A at A-level and, M2 and M2 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 AB at A-level and M2 in Pre-U. |
|---|---|
| Subjects | You must have either Mathematics at A-level or as a Cambridge Pre-U Principal subject. Physics A-level is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis without it. |
| GCSEs | You should have a broad range of GCSEs grade 9-4 (A*-C), including good grades in relevant subjects. |
International Baccalaureate
| Typical offer | 30 points overall from the full IB Diploma. |
|---|---|
| Subjects | IB Higher Levels must include Mathematics, with a grade of 5. For entry, 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 B in A-level and Distinction, Merit in Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma.
|
|---|---|
| Contextual offer | View 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. Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis without it. |
| 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 BB in A-levels and Merit in BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate. |
|---|---|
| Contextual offer | View 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 | You will need A-level in Mathematics Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis.
|
| GCSEs | You should have a broad range of GCSEs grade 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 offer | View 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 Distinctions in Engineering Principles, Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and Further engineering maths units. |
| GCSEs | GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics with at least grade 5 is essential (or grade B). |
Scottish Highers
| Typical offer | AAABB |
|---|---|
| Subjects | Highers must include Mathematics and, normally, also Physics. Applicants without Physics will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Ideally, you will also have an Advanced Higher in Mathematics (grade B). |
Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced
| Typical offer | BBB-BBC from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate and two A-levels |
|---|---|
| Subjects | A-levels must include Mathematics. Physics A-level is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis without it. |
| GCSEs | You should have a broad range of GCSEs (A*-C), including good grades in relevant subjects. |
International Baccalaureate
| Typical offer | 30 points overall from the full IB Diploma. |
|---|---|
| Subjects | IB Higher Levels must include Mathematics, with a grade of 5. For entry, 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 8.0). Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis. |
Other international qualifications
Australia
| Typical offer | Relevant state (Year 12) High School Certificate, and between 88% to 85% in the ATAR or UAI/TER/ENTER, or a Queensland OP of 4 to 5 or better. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability to a high level in Mathematics is essential. 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. |
Austria
| Typical offer | Reifeprüfung or Matura with an overall result of between 2.0 to 2.2 or better for first-year entry. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability to a high level in Mathematics is essential. 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. |
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 existing academic ability to a high level in Mathematics is essential. Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis.
|
| 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). |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability to a high level in Mathematics is essential. 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. |
Canada
| Typical offer | Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) 70%-75% from 6 grade 12 U, U/C or M courses. British Columbia Certificate of Graduation AABBB-BBBBB 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 to a high level in Mathematics is essential. 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. |
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. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of existing academic ability to a high level in Mathematics is essential. Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis.
|
| 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 between 4 and 4.2 |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability to a high level in Mathematics is essential. 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. |
Cyprus
| Typical offer | Apolytirion of Lykeion with an overall average of between 18/20 and 18.5/20 will be considered for first-year entry.
|
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability to a high level in Mathematics is essential. 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. |
Czech Republic
| Typical offer | Maturita with a good overall average. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of existing academic ability to a high level in Mathematics is essential. Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis.
|
| 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 on the new grading scale. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability to a high level in Mathematics is essential. 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. |
Finland
| Typical offer | Pass Ylioppilastutkinto with overall final result between MMMM - EMMM |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability to a high level in Mathematics is essential. 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. |
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 12/20 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 2.0 to 2.2 or better. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You will need to achieve a final mark of at least 12/15 in Mathematics. Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis. |
Greece
| Typical offer | Apolytirion with an overall average of between 18 and 18.5 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, 4, 4 to 4, 4, 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 55544. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability to a high level in Mathematics is essential. 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. |
India
| Typical offer | Standard XII results
|
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability to a high level in Mathematics is essential. 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. |
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 to a high level in Mathematics is essential. Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis.
|
| 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,H2,H2,H3,H3 to H2,H2,H2,H3,H3. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Highers must include Mathematics with a score of H1. Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants 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 between 78/100 and 81/100. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in Mathematics is essential. Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants 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 academic ability to a high level in Mathematics is essential. Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis.
|
| 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 existing academic ability to a high level in Mathematics is essential. Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis.
|
| 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 existing academic ability to a high level in Mathematics is essential. Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis.
|
| Please note | 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 between 43-46 points overall. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability to a high level in Mathematics is essential. 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. |
Malaysia
| Typical offer | at least Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) with grades of BBB, Matriculation with a least a grade of 3.0 or UEC with an overall average grade B4 (70%) from 6 subjects. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability to a high level in Mathematics is essential. 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. |
Netherlands
| Typical offer | Voorereidend Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs (VWO), normally with an average of at least 7. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability to a high level in Mathematics is essential. 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. |
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 academic ability to a high level in Mathematics is essential. Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis.
|
| 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. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in Mathematics is essential. Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants 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 to a high level in Mathematics is essential. 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. |
Poland
| Typical offer | Pass Matura with least 3 Extended level subjects including Mathematics in the 75th percentile.
|
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Higher level Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis. |
Portugal
| Typical offer | Diploma de Ensino Secundario normally with an overall mark between 16/20 and 17/20. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability to a high level in Mathematics is essential. 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. |
Romania
| Typical offer | Diploma de Bacalaureat with an overall average between 8.0 and 8.5 including a score of 8 in Mathematics. |
|---|---|
| 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. . |
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 to a high level in Mathematics is essential. Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis.
|
| 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 to a high level in Mathematics is essential. Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis.
|
| 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 above 2.0 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 23 points overall. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability to a high level in Mathematics is essential. 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. |
South Africa
| Typical offer | National Senior Certificate with very good grades. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of existing academic ability to a high level in Mathematics is essential. Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis.
|
| 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 between 7.5 and 8.0. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Evidence of existing academic ability in Mathematics is essential (at least 8/10). Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis. |
Sri Lanka
| Typical offer | Sri Lankan A-levels. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of existing academic ability to a high level in Mathematics is essential. Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis.
|
| 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 Mathematics.
|
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Physics to a higher level is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis without it. |
Switzerland
| Typical offer | Federal Maturity Certificate. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | Evidence of existing academic ability to a high level in Mathematics is essential. Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis.
|
| 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 to a high level in Mathematics is essential. 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. |
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 /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 between 5,4,4 to 4,4,4 in three subjects. If you have taken the SAT reasoning tests we'd normally expect a combined score of at least 1300. 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 to a high level in Mathematics is essential. 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. |
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
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
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
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.
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 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.
- Foundations of Data Analysis
- Mathematical Methods for Physics 1
- Mechanics and Heat
- Physics Study Success
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
Spring teaching
Explore modules from other subjects as part of your course
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 explore subjects that are different to your course through electives and pathways that complement your main subject. Exploring different disciplines in four electives across Years 1 and 2 helps enrich your learning experience.
Discover our electives and pathways
Engineering and physics principles drive the green energy transition. In our Sustainable Energy elective, I’m excited to work with you to explore all the available information – and discuss your ideas.”Professor Simon Peeters
Professor of Physics
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.
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
Spring teaching
Explore modules from other subjects as part of your course
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 explore subjects that are different to your course through electives and pathways that complement your main subject. Exploring different disciplines in four electives across Years 1 and 2 helps enrich your learning experience.
Discover our electives and pathways
Engineering and physics principles drive the green energy transition. In our Sustainable Energy elective, I’m excited to work with you to explore all the available information – and discuss your ideas.”Professor Simon Peeters
Professor of Physics
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.
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
If your application to study abroad is successful, you’ll have to meet the academic requirements at Sussex and also at the partner university. Find out more about studying abroad as a Sussex student
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
An industrial placement gives you the chance to spend an additional 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.
You develop your technical, team-working and transferable skills, and apply what you have learnt in your studies to a business environment.
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)
Please note that 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
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
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
Autumn and spring teaching
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 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.
The lecturers are experienced and engaging. They ensure modules are relevant, as well as giving you valuable skills for life after university. ”Isabelle Frampton
Physics BSc
Find out more about studying Physics at Sussex, including astrophysics, theoretical physics and particle physics
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
I work on the ATLAS experiment at the CERN’s Large Hadron Collider, seeking answers to fundamental questions such as ‘What is the nature of dark matter?”Professor Antonella De Santo
Professor of Physics
Prof Antonella De Santo
Professor Of Physics RSW Research MeritAward Holder
Fees
- Home students:
- £9,250 per year
- Channel Islands and Isle of Man students:
- £9,250 per year
- International students:
- £26,250 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, once they’re set, may be subject to an increase on an annual basis. Find details on our Tuition fees page.
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
We are a core part of the SEPnet (South East Physics Network) consortium, which gives us links to universities and industries across the region.
On your course, you’ll develop versatile and transferable skills. This prepares you for finding jobs in industry or academia. Many of our graduates go on to postgraduate research and PhD study. Others find graduate jobs in a diverse range of fields, including:
-
aerospace
-
consulting
-
geophysics
-
teaching
-
the scientific Civil Service.
Graduate destinations
Recent Physics and Astronomy graduates have started their careers as:
- SAP applications consultant at Capgemini
- graduate diagnostic physicist at Diamond Light Source
- software developer at Flight Data Services
- trainee clinical scientist for the NHS.
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 Entrepreneurship team can help you find part-time work while you study. Find out more about career development and part-time work
A-level - contextual offer
BCC, including grade B in Mathematics.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma and one A-level - contextual offer
Grade B in A-level and Merit, Merit in Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate and two A-levels - contextual offer
Grades BC in A-levels including grade B in Mathematics and Merit in BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma) - contextual offer
DDM