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Key information

Duration:: 4 years full time
Typical A-level offer:: AAA
View full entry requirements
UCAS code:: F328
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)

If you want to use your mathematics skills to explore the concepts of fundamental physics, this integrated Masters is for you. It’s particularly relevant if you're interested in a career in research.

Alongside mathematics, you’ll learn the methods of theoretical physics, and apply them to areas such as particle physics, cosmology, and condensed-state and atomic physics. This focus means that you’ll spend less time on experimental techniques compared to other physics courses.

You’ll be taught by our world-leading researchers who are at the forefront of physics. Their work includes:

developing next-generation quantum computing devices
using the ATLAS detector at CERN
studying our universe using the James Webb Space Telescope.

This work informs your teaching – our modules are based on the latest faculty research. Topics may include:

lasers and photonics
perturbation theory
quantum mechanics
stellar and planetary 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 can apply for a year studying abroad or going on a placement. In your final year, you’ll apply the skills you’ve gained to an advanced research project.

By graduation, you’ll have the advanced skills needed for a career in research or industry. You’ll be skilled in Python programming, transforming physics problems into mathematical statements and statistical analysis.

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 three-year BSc. Find out about the benefits of an integrated Masters year.

As a Sussex undergraduate, I had plenty of opportunities to get involved in research projects. The real sense of community among students made studying here so special.”Dr Daniel Cutting
Theoretical Physics MPhys and Physics PhD graduate
Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Helsinki, Finland

How to apply

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A-level

Typical offer	AAA
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 and Physics.
GCSEs	You should have a broad range of GCSEs 9-4 (A*-C), including good grades in relevant subjects.
Extended Project Qualification	We take the EPQ into account when considering your application and it can be useful in the summer when your results are released if you have narrowly missed the conditions of your offer. We do not routinely include the EPQ in the conditions of your offer but we sometimes offer alternative conditions that include the EPQ. If you wish to discuss this further please contact us

Other UK qualifications

Access to HE Diploma

Subjects

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

Typical offer

M1, M1 and M2

If you have one A-level and two Cambridge Pre-U Principal Subjects we would expect you to have grade B at A-level and, M2 and M1 in two Pre-Us.

If you have two A-levels and a Cambridge Pre-U Principal Subject we would normally expect you to have grades AB at A-level and M2 in the Pre-U.

Subjects

You must have either Mathematics at A-level and Physics or as a Cambridge Pre-U Principal subjects.

GCSEs

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

International Baccalaureate

Typical offer

34 points overall from the full IB Diploma.

Subjects

Higher Levels must include Mathematics, with a grade of 6 and Higher level Physics.

For entry, either Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches or Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation at Higher Level will be accepted.

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

Typical offer	Grades AB in A-levels plus Distinction 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	A-levels must include Mathematics and Physics.
GCSEs	You should have a broad range of GCSEs 9-4 (A*-C), including good grades in relevant subjects.

Scottish Highers

Typical offer	AAAAA
Subjects	Highers must include both Mathematics and Physics. Ideally, you will also have an Advanced Higher in Mathematics (grade A).

Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced

Typical offer

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

Subjects

A-levels must include Mathematics and Physics.

GCSEs

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

International Baccalaureate

Typical offer

34 points overall from the full IB Diploma.

Subjects

Higher Levels must include Mathematics, with a grade of 6 and Higher level Physics.

For entry, either Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches or Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation at Higher Level will be accepted.

European Baccalaureate

Typical offer	Overall result of at least 80%
Additional requirements	Evidence of existing academic ability in Mathematics is essential (normally with a final grade of at least 8.5) and Higher level Physics.

Other international qualifications

Australia

Typical offer

Relevant state (Year 12) High School Certificate, and a score of 95% in the ATAR or UAI/TER/ENTER, or a Queensland OP of 2 or better.

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

Austria

Typical offer

Reifeprüfung or Matura with an overall result of 1.6 for first-year entry.

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

Belgium

Typical offer

Certificat d'Enseignement Secondaire Supérieur (CESS) or Diploma van Hoger Secundair Onderwijs with a good overall average.

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

Bulgaria

Typical offer	Diploma za Sredno Obrazovanie with excellent final-year scores (normally 5.5 overall with 6 in key subjects).
Additional requirements	Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

Canada

Typical offer

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

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 in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

China

Typical offer

If you have the Goakao, we will consider applications for direct entry to first year. You would normally need an overall average of 75%, including required subjects.

We are also pleased to consider applications if you are following a recognised International Foundation Year or you have one or more years of Higher Education in China at a recognised degree awarding institution.

The Senior High School Graduation alone would not be sufficient for entry to our undergraduate degrees, but you may be eligible to apply for our International Foundation Year. If you successfully complete an International Foundation Year, you can progress on to a relevant undergraduate course at Sussex.

Check which qualifications the International Study Centre accepts for the International Foundation Year.

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

Croatia

Typical offer

Maturatna Svjedodžba with an overall score of 4.5

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

Cyprus

Typical offer

Apolytirion of Lykeion with an overall average of 19/20 and above will be considered for first-year entry.

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

Czech Republic

Typical offer	Maturita with a good overall average.
Subject-specific knowledge	Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Denmark

Typical offer

Højere Forberedelseseksamen (HF) or Studentereksamen with an overall average of at least 7-10 on the new grading scale.

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

Finland

Typical offer

Pass Ylioppilastutkinto with overall final result of at least EEMM

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

France

Typical offer

French Baccalauréat with overall final result of at least 14/20.

Additional requirements

You will need to be taking the science strand within the French Baccalaureat with a final result of at least 14/20 in Mathematics and Physics.

Physics is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis.

Germany

Typical offer

German Abitur with an overall result of 1.8 or better.

Additional requirements

You will need to achieve a final mark of at least 14/15 in Mathematics and Physics.

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

Greece

Typical offer

Apolytirion with an overall average of at least 19 will be considered for first-year entry.

You must also have either Apolytirion pathway in Mathematics with a score of 19 or the Pan Hellenic in Mathematics with an overall score of 17. You will also need High score levels in Physics.

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.

Advanced/higher-level ability in Physics.

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

Hungary

Typical offer

Erettsegi/Matura with a good average of at least 55555.

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

India

Typical offer

Standard XII results

85% from ISC Indian School certificate of Education (CISCE)
85% from SSC All India Senior School Certificate Examination (CBSE)
85% HSC Higher Secondary Certificate ( Maharashtra )

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

Iran

Typical offer	Where direct entry is unsuitable, we'll automatically consider you for one of our Foundation Years. Or you might want to apply to one of our International Foundation Years at the international Study Centre on Campus. Visit isc.sussex.ac.uk/our-courses/international-foundation-year or www.sussex.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/foundation-years
Subject-specific knowledge	Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Ireland

Typical offer

Irish Leaving Certificate (Higher Level) at H1,H1,H2,H2,H3.

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics (H1) and Physics is essential.

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

Israel

Typical offer

For first year entry at least 80% (or 8/10) in at least 6 subjects, including one 5 unit subject, in one sitting of the Bagrut.

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics 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 in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

Japan

Typical offer	Where direct entry is unsuitable, we'll automatically consider you for one of our Foundation Years. Or you might want to apply to one of our International Foundation Years at the international Study Centre on Campus. Visit isc.sussex.ac.uk/our-courses/international-foundation-year or www.sussex.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/foundation-years
Subject-specific knowledge	Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Latvia

Typical offer

Atestats par Visparejo videjo Izglitibu with very good grades in state exams.

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

Lithuania

Typical offer

Brandos Atestatas including scores of 80-90% in at least three state examinations (other than English).

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

Luxembourg

Typical offer

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

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

Malaysia

Typical offer

Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) with grades of AAB, Maticulation 3.5, UEC overall average grade A2 78%.

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

Netherlands

Typical offer

Voorereidend Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs (VWO), normally with an average of at least 8.

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

Nigeria

Typical offer

You are expected to have one of the following:

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 in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

Please note

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

Norway

Typical offer

Norwegian Vitnemal Fra Den Videregaende Opplaering - Pass with an overall average of 4.5

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

Pakistan

Typical offer

You can apply for direct entry to Year 1 if you are completing at least two years of Bachelor degree studies.

You'll normally need to complete a Foundation year after taking Intermediate Certificate or the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC). You might choose one of our International Foundation Years at the International Study Centre on campus.

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Poland

Typical offer

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

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

Portugal

Typical offer

Diploma de Ensino Secundario normally with an overall mark of 18/20.

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

Romania

Typical offer

Diploma de Bacalaureat with an overall average of 8.7 including a score of 8 in Mathematics

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

Russia

Typical offer	Applicants who have good grades in the Attestat o Srednem Obrazovami (Certificate of Secondary Education) and who have successfully completed the first year of a Russian University degree, with a minimum GPA of 4.0, will be considered for admission to the first year of our bachelor’s degree courses.
Subject-specific knowledge	Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Singapore

Typical offer	A-levels, as well as certain certificates and diplomas.
Subject-specific knowledge	Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Slovakia

Typical offer

Pass Vysvedčenie o maturitnej skúške (Maturita) with an average grade of 1.5 from 4 subjects including Mathematics.

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

Slovenia

Typical offer

Secondary School Leaving Diploma or Matura with at least 25 points overall.

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

South Africa

Typical offer	National Senior Certificate with very good grades.
Subject-specific knowledge	Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Spain

Typical offer

Spanish Título de Bachillerato (LOGSE) with an overall average result of at least 8.0

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics (8/10) and Physics is essential.

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

Sri Lanka

Typical offer	Sri Lankan A-levels.
Subject-specific knowledge	Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Sweden

Typical offer

Fullstandigt Slutbetyg/Högskoleförberedande Examen with a total of 2,500 credits to include A and B grades in the majority of subjects

and to include grade A in Mathematics.

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

Switzerland

Typical offer	Federal Maturity Certificate.
Subject-specific knowledge	Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.
Please note	Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Turkey

Typical offer

We'll consider students who have taken the Lise Diplomasi or Lise Bitirme, with a score of at least 4/5 or 80/100 in their final year, on a case by case basis for direct entry to year 1.

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

USA

Typical offer

We look at your full profile taking into account everything you are studying, including the high school graduation diploma, Grade 12 GPA, SAT tests and/or ACT grades We are particularly interested in AP tests and would ideally like to see three good AP scores

Advanced Placement Tests with scores of 5,5,4 in three subjects.

If you have taken the SAT reasoning tests we'd normally expect a combined score of at least 1300.

If you've taken the ACT we'd expect to see a composite score of at least 26

Additional requirements

Evidence of existing academic ability in both Mathematics and Physics is essential.

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

My country is not listed

If your qualifications aren’t listed or you have a question about entry requirements, contact us

English language requirements

IELTS (Academic)

6.0 overall, including at least 5.5 in each component

Check your IELTS qualification meets all of our language requirements

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

If you are a national of one of the countries below, or if you have recently completed a qualification equivalent to a UK Bachelors degree or higher in one of these countries, you will normally meet our English requirements. Note that qualifications obtained by distance learning or awarded by studying outside these countries cannot be accepted for English language purposes.

You will normally be expected to have completed the qualification within two years before starting your course at Sussex. If the qualification was obtained earlier than this we would expect you to be able to demonstrate that you have maintained a good level of English, for example by living in an English-speaking country or working in an occupation that required you to use English regularly and to a high level.

Please note that this list is determined by the UK’s Home Office, not by the University of Sussex.

List of exempt countries

Antigua and Barbuda
Australia
Bahamas
Barbados
Belize
Canada**
Dominica
Grenada
Guyana
Ireland
Jamaica
New Zealand
St Kitts and Nevis
St Lucia
St Vincent and the Grenadines
Trinidad and Tobago
United Kingdom
USA

** Canada: you must be a national of Canada; other nationals not on this list who have a degree from a Canadian institution will not normally be exempt from needing to provide evidence of English.

Admissions information for applicants

Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) for international students	Yes. Find out more about ATAS clearance on the Student Hub.
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:

Physics and Astronomy (with a foundation year) BSc (Hons)

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.

How to apply

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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

Year 1 at Sussex
Year 2 at Sussex
Experience Year
Year 3 at Sussex
Year 4 at Sussex

Core modules

Core modules are taken by all students on the course. They give you a solid grounding in your chosen subject and prepare you to explore the topics that interest you most.

Autumn teaching

Spring teaching

Options

Alongside your core modules, you can choose options to broaden your horizons and tailor your course to your interests. This list gives you a flavour of our options, which are kept under review and may change, for example in response to student feedback or the latest research.

While it’s our aim for students to take their preferred combinations of options, this can’t be guaranteed and will be subject to timetabling. Options may be grouped and if so, students will be able to choose a set number of options from the selection available in any particular group.

Spring teaching

Explore modules from other subjects as part of your course

At Sussex, you have the opportunity 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 a subject that is different to your course through an elective that complements your main subject. Exploring a different discipline in one elective in Year 1 helps enrich your learning experience.

Discover our electives

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

Explore modules from other subjects as part of your course

At Sussex, you have the opportunity 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.

Discover our electives

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

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

Recent Mathematical and Physical Sciences students have gone on placements at:

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Ltd
NATS Holdings
HEFCE.

SEPnet Employer Programme

We are a core part of the SEPnet (South East Physics Network) consortium, which gives us links to universities and industries across the region. SEPnet’s Employer Programme creates opportunities for our students to apply for eight-week funded summer placements.

Find out more at Department of Physics and Astronomy: South East Physics Network (SEPnet)

It’s given me an understanding of the processes behind research data analysis, and a skillset I can take with in the future.”Tim Lingard
Theoretical Physics MPhys

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

Autumn and spring teaching

Mathematical Physics Projects

Spring teaching

Quantum Mechanics 2

Options

Spring teaching

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 and spring teaching

MPhys Final Year Project

Options

Autumn teaching

Spring teaching

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

We’re given so much support, from the lecturers’ open door policy, to the fantastic study spaces and student mentors. ”Anjelah Balachandran
Theoretical Physics MPhys

How to apply

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Our staff

The Department of Physics and Astronomy 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.

Prof Andrea Banfi

Professor of Theoretical Physics

View profile of Andrea Banfi

Prof Christian Byrnes

Professor of Theoretical Cosmology

View profile of Christian Byrnes

Prof Xavier Calmet

Professor of Physics

View profile of Xavier Calmet

Prof Jacob Dunningham

Professor of Physics

View profile of Jacob Dunningham

Prof Barry Garraway

Professor Of Quantum Physics

View profile of Barry Garraway

Prof Stephan Huber

Professor of Physics

View profile of Stephan Huber

Prof Ilian Iliev

Professor of Astrophysics

View profile of Ilian Iliev

Prof Sebastian Jaeger

Professor of Theoretical Physics

View profile of Sebastian Jaeger

Prof Antony Lewis

Professor of Cosmology

View profile of Antony Lewis

Dr Jonas Lindert

Senior Lecturer

View profile of Jonas Lindert

Prof Daniel Litim

Professor of Theoretical Physics

View profile of Daniel Litim

Prof David Seery

Professor of Cosmology

View profile of David Seery

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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

Our goal is to ensure that every student who wants to study with us is able to regardless of financial barriers, so that we continue to attract talented and unique people.

Chancellor's International Scholarships

£5,000 in the first year of full-time study

Find out more
Sussex Bangladesh Scholarship (Undergraduate)

Up to £4,500 (£1,500 per year of full-time study)

Find out more
Sussex Egypt Scholarship (Undergraduate)

Up to £4,500 (£1,500 per year of full-time study)

Find out more
Sussex India Scholarship (Undergraduate)

Up to £4,500 (£1,500 per year of full-time study)

Find out more
Sussex Nigeria Scholarship (Undergraduate)

Up to £4,500 (£1,500 per year of full-time study)

Find out more
Sussex Pakistan Scholarship (Undergraduate)

Up to £4,500 (£1,500 per year of full-time study)

Find out more
Sussex Turkey Scholarship (Undergraduate)

Up to £4,500 (£1,500 per year of full-time study)

Find out more
Sussex Vietnam Scholarship (Undergraduate)

Up to £4,500 (£1,500 per year of full-time study)

Find out more

How to apply

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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.

During your course, you’ll get dedicated careers and CV advice. With careers fairs, forums and a dedicated careers officer, we support your career development from day one. You’ll have opportunities to meet potential employers.

You’ll have a wide range of paid work opportunities within the Department – from teaching and research opportunities in the summer, to outreach roles throughout the year.

Graduate destinations

Recent Physics and Astronomy graduates have started their careers as:

SAP applications consultant at Capgemini
geophysicist at CGG
graduate diagnostic physicist at Diamond Light Source.

Many 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

How is mathematics and graphical information used to communicate science? I confronted this real-life challenge in my research project.”Daniel Hajas
Theoretical Physics student and founder of Grapheel

Student Daniel Hajas talks about the practical applications of his research

Design your future at Sussex

Taking the next step in your career can feel daunting, but we’ll help you to explore, connect and flourish throughout your studies and beyond.

As a Sussex student, you’ll learn how to tackle real-world challenges and have access to tailored programmes of careers support:

our Career Lab helps you to explore your options, build key skills and connect with employers. Take part in internships, community consultancy projects and insight visits, where you can learn about life at organisations including Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club, Gatwick Airport and the Knepp Rewilding Project
one-to-one coaching with your Faculty Careers Consultant can enable you to identify your career goals, write an effective CV and prepare for future interviews
entrepreneurship initiatives like StartUp Sussex and Ideas Lab can empower you to turn your concepts into reality.

Explore how our Careers and Entrepreneurship team can support you

Winner
Supporting Student and Graduate Employability Award
AGCAS Awards for Excellence 2024

Winner
Entrepreneurship Catalyst Award
National Enterprise Educator Awards 2024

How to apply

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