Physics

Physics is the most fundamental of the natural sciences, concerned with understanding the basic laws that govern matter, energy, space and time. From the behaviour of subatomic particles to the dynamics of galaxies, from the quantum mechanics of atoms to the thermodynamics of black holes, physics seeks explanations at the deepest level and has repeatedly produced discoveries that transformed not only science but technology and human society. A physics degree is a training in how to reason precisely about the natural world, and the skills it develops, mathematical modelling, quantitative analysis, problem-solving under uncertainty, are among the most transferable available.

At the University of Sussex, this four-year full-time programme includes both a foundation year and a research placement. The foundation year provides a supported route into the mathematical and scientific demands of the degree for students who would benefit from additional preparation, building the mathematical foundations and physical intuition needed before the main physics content begins. The research placement, embedded later in the degree, gives you direct experience of working within a research environment, developing the practical skills of experimental or computational physics alongside the theoretical understanding built in lectures and problem sessions.

Sussex has a strong research culture in physics and the placement reflects that environment. Typical entry is around 120 UCAS tariff points.

Physics graduates are among the most broadly employable of all science graduates. Many move into roles in finance, data science, software engineering, defence, energy, aerospace, medical physics and research, while others continue to doctoral study in physics, astronomy, materials science, engineering or biophysics. The analytical and quantitative skills developed through a physics degree transfer into any profession that rewards systematic, evidence-based thinking, and the research experience gained through the placement component adds a further dimension of professional readiness.