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Theoretical Physics
BSc (Hons) · 3 Years · Full-time · 21/09/2026 · UndergraduateMain Site
Course summary
7th in the UK for our research environment in Physics in REF 2021 (Times Higher Education)
About the course
If you want to use your mathematics skills to explore the concepts of fundamental physics, this course is for you.
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:
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developing next-generation quantum computing devices
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using the ATLAS detector at CERN
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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:
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lasers and photonics
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perturbation theory
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quantum mechanics
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stellar and planetary physics
In your third year, you’ll join a research team for your final-year project. 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 also apply for a year studying abroad or going on a placement.
By graduation, you’ll have gained the skills employers are looking for. 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.
MPhys or BSc?
We also offer this course as a four-year MPhys. Find out about the benefits of an integrated Masters year.
Location
Study on our beautiful, green campus on the edge of the South Downs National Park and just minutes from the vibrant seaside city of Brighton & Hove. We’re near to Gatwick airport and just over an hour from London.
About the University of Sussex
Our courses, research, culture and campus aim to stimulate, excite and challenge. From scientific discovery to global policy, from student welfare to career development, Sussex innovates and takes a lead. And today, in every part of society and across the world, you'll find someone from Sussex making an original and valuable contribution.
Modules
See the modules you will study by year by going to the ‘visit our course page’ link at the bottom of the page.
Ways to study this course
Campuses
- Main Site
Study options
- BSc (Hons) • Full-time • 3 Years
Start dates
- 21/09/2026
Apply by
14 January
This is the equal consideration deadline. You can still apply after this date, but your application may not receive guaranteed consideration.
Application codes
- Course code:
- F325
- Institution code:
- S90
- Campus name:
- Main Site
- Campus Code:
- -
- Points of Entry:
- Year 1, 2
Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF)
University of Sussex has participated in the Teaching Excellence Framework. These ratings were awarded in 2023, for four years.
See why these ratings were awarded
What does this TEF outcome mean?
How to apply
Apply by
14 January
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application codes
- Course code:
- F325
- Institution code:
- S90
- Campus name:
- Main Site
- Campus Code:
- -
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
- Year 2
Chat to student ambassadors
Discover what it's like to study Theoretical Physics at University of Sussex: insights on the course, making friends, personal statement tips, uni prep, and recommended books, podcasts, and videos.
POWERED BY 
Sarah
University of SussexMedicineHi there! I’m Sarah, a fourth year medical student at Brighton and Sussex medical School. I am a mature student having worked for the UK Government for the past ten year, and a graduate, completing my first degree in Medical Neuroscience here at the University of Sussex. It really feels like I have come full circle now that I am back here studying medicine! I hope to become an obstetrician once I finish my degree, but we get so much exposure to different specialities I am also excited to explore. I enjoy yoga and cold water swimming which is great as I live by the sea for the first time! Lily
University of SussexPsychologyI'm a mature international student, and have just started studying this year, which comes with different challenges, but just as many rewards! As much as I love my course, I also love being able to be a part of so many different societies, and meet so many new and interesting people! Khadija
University of SussexBusiness, Management & MarketingSecond-year business student who started with a foundation year. I’m really enjoying the course and hoping to work in operations or consulting after I graduate. Happy to chat about uni life or business. Rudie
University of SussexEcology and ConservationI'm a Mature and Neurodivergent Student who didn't have the most conventional education due to a lack of support at school. If you feel like you need advice on the support Sussex offers or if this is the right University for you, I can help. I also organise a variety of surveying and STEM outreach events, both with the School of Life Sciences and the NGO Shelltering Sussex. So, if you want to know what extracurricular activities Sussex has to offer for Life Sciences students, I'm your person. Shubby
University of SussexLawI am Nigerian but was born in Canada. I aspire to be a civil litigation or corporate lawyer in the future as this has been a long desire passion of mines. I am very passionate about helping other individuals in anyway I possible can! I also enjoy taking part in societies and staying involved in the community through volunteering. Tomisin
University of SussexPoliticsI’m a British-Nigerian Politics and International Relations student. I’ve been enjoying the joint honour degree as it has personally helped me to expand my knowledge and connect the links between international history and British politics! I am also a Christian and passionate for Jesus! I enjoy attending church in Brighton, meeting more people and growing in faith 😄 Mykhailo
University of SussexBusiness, Management & MarketingI'm Mykhailo, a first year BSc Marketing student at University of Sussex. I would be happy to answer all your questions about the university, my course or student life. Zehra
University of SussexLawHi! My name is Zehra, and I’m a first-year LLB Law student at the University of Sussex. I’m really excited to be part of the Student Ambassador Programme and to support students who are considering joining our community. My goal is to become a barrister, and I’m particularly interested in areas such as human rights, public, and employment law. I’m passionate about supporting and advocating for underrepresented communities. As a first-generation student, an ethnic minority immigrant from Turkey, a mature student, and someone living with a disability, I truly understand how important it is to feel supported, welcomed, and connected at university. That’s why I’m here — to share my journey, answer your questions, and help you feel confident in finding your own path. I speak both Turkish and English, and outside of my studies, I enjoy reading, watersports, chess, cinema, and music. I also have a cat who keeps me company during my study sessions! If you’re feeling unsure, curious, or just want to chat, feel free to reach out — I’m always happy to help. Hanna
University of SussexPsychology and Cognitive ScienceI'm a British/Egyptian postgraduate research student in psychology at Sussex. I am very enthusiastic about my course and my studies, and would be very happy to answer your queries. I will answer your queries asap, so please write to me!
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
A level - AAB
A-levels must include Mathematics at grade B.
Physics A-level is desirable, but we will consider applicants on a case-by-case basis without it.
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 (first teaching from September 2016) - DDM
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.
GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics with at least grade 5 is essential (or grade B).
Access to HE Diploma
Pass Diploma with at least 39 level 3 credits at Merit or above including 27 credits at Distinction.
In addition to the Access to HE Diploma, you will also need an A-level in Mathematics, with at least grade B.
Scottish Higher - AAABB
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).
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme - 34 points
This score should be from the full IB Diploma.
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.
Extended Project
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 Admissions at ug.applicants@sussex.ac.uk
English language requirements
| Test | Grade | Additional details |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS (Academic) | 6 | Including at least 5.5 in each component. We accept IELTS One Skills Retake. We do not accept IELTS Online. |
| PTE Academic | 59 | Including at least 59 in all four skills. We do not accept the PTE Academic Online test. |
| TOEFL (iBT) | 80 | TOEFL (iBT), including at least 17 in Listening, 18 in Reading, 20 in Speaking, 17 in Writing. We do not accept TOEFL (iBT) Home Edition. |
Please see our English language requirements. http://www.sussex.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/apply/international-qualifications/english-language-requirements
Contextual admissions
Universities and colleges consider more than grades when assessing applications and may make offers based on a range of criteria. Learn more about contextual offers.
At Sussex, we recognise that not everybody has the same support to help them get to higher education. At Sussex it’s important to us to have a diverse, inclusive university community with a range of voices and experiences. Contextual offers are one of the ways we remove the barriers to higher education ensuring that we have fair access to all regardless of background. A contextual offer is a reduced grade offer which is given to students who meet certain eligibility criteria.
Historical entry grades data BETA
This section shows the range of grades students (with UK A-Levels or Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diplomas) who received offers were previously accepted with (learn more). It is designed to support your research but does not guarantee whether you will or won't get a place. Admissions teams consider various factors, including interviews, subject requirements, and entrance tests. Check all course entry requirements for eligibility.
- Data from:
- This course and 9 other physics courses
- Date range:
- 2022-2024
Grades held by accepted students
- A*A*A
- Highest grades
- CCC
- Lowest grades
Offer rate for UK school & college leavers
Students aged 17/18 who applied to this course were offered a place.
How do you compare?
See how students with your grades have been accepted onto this course in the past.
Student Outcomes
Operated by the Office for Students
Employment after 15 months (Most common jobs)
Go onto work and study
The number of student respondents and response rates can be important in interpreting the data – it is important to note your experience may be different from theirs. This data will be based on the subject area rather than the specific course. Read more about this data on the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| Location | Fee | Year |
|---|---|---|
| England | £9535 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £9535 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £9535 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £9535 | Year 1 |
| Channel Islands | £9535 | Year 1 |
| Republic of Ireland | £9535 | Year 1 |
| EU | £27300 | Year 1 |
| International | £27300 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website.
Additional fee information
Note that your fees may be subject to an increase on an annual basis as the Government reviews the fee levels.
University of Sussex
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Course contact details
Undergraduate Enquiries
Email:ug.enquiries@sussex.ac.uk
Phone:01273 876787
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