Physics with Astrophysics BSc (Hons)

Here’s how students on the BSc (Hons) Physics with Astrophysics programme at University of Sussex gain real‑world skills through purposeful, research‑led learning in modern facilities and supported by vibrant academic expertise:

You’ll begin with rigorous practical physics and programming modules in Year 1, progressing into observational astrophysics and computational modelling. As you move through Year 2 and Year 3, you will tackle more advanced lab work and computing projects, culminating in an independent astrophysics research project supervised by active faculty. Throughout, Sussex’s teaching is informed by world-leading astronomy research, giving you hands-on access to instruments, data tools, and departmental support.

And here’s how that translates into real experiential learning:

• Astronomy Centre & rooftop telescopes
  Sussex’s Astronomy Centre is deeply involved in collaborations such as the Dark Energy Survey, LOFAR, SKA, Planck, Herschel and more. Physical access to rooftop optical, radio, and muon telescopes lets you engage with real astronomical observation and instrumentation.

• Modern teaching laboratories & computing suites
  Core physics and lab modules are delivered in modern teaching labs and computer rooms, where you gain practical experience in data collection, analysis, and simulation from Day 1.

• Final‑year individual research project
  In Year 3, you'll design and carry out an independent astrophysics research project—using observational data, modelling or instrumentation—under the guidance of faculty in the Astronomy Centre or Physics department.

• Software & digital tools
  Expect to work extensively with programming languages (e.g. Python), simulation environments, and data‑analysis toolkits in modules and research tasks to interpret astrophysical observations and run models.

• Group projects & communication development
  Coursework includes team-based lab reports, group problem solving, and presentations, sharpening your teamwork and scientific communication skills.

• Optional Professional or Industrial Placement Year
  As part of an optional route (such as the BSc with industrial placement or MPhys), you can apply for a placement year for paid industry experience—supported by Sussex’s careers team and SEPnet networking placements.

• SEPnet internship opportunities
  As a Sussex student (thanks to SEPnet membership), you can apply for 8‑week second/third year placements with employers across the south-east of England, gaining valuable experience in research or industry.

• Careers & entrepreneurship support
  Sussex’s Career Lab and dedicated careers consultants help with CVs, interview prep, employer insight days, entrepreneurship via StartUp Sussex—and many students undertake paid departmental research or outreach roles.

• Campus research environment
  You learn from world-leading astrophysics researchers such as Professors Kathy Romer, Antonella De Santo, and Robert E. Smith, whose work spans from cosmology to CERN and dark matter investigations.

• Student community & Physics Society
  Sussex’s Physics Society organises outreach, social and talks events, giving you opportunities to engage with astronomy peers and community projects.

These experiences mean you graduate not just with strong theoretical knowledge, but practical lab expertise, astrophysics data‑handling proficiency, independent research ability, and placement‑level industry exposure.

Graduates of the University of Sussex's BSc (Hons) Physics with Astrophysics are highly employable, moving into roles such as astrophysicist, data analyst, research scientist, scientific programmer, science educator, and positions in sectors including space, technology, finance, and education. Many alumni also pursue MSc studies in astrophysics, astronomy, or related fields, supported by the university's strong research culture and international collaborations.

Here's how Sussex specifically supports your future:

Career Services & Experiential Learning:
The program combines rigorous core physics with specialist astrophysics modules, covering cosmology, galaxies, stars, planetary systems, and the evolution and properties of astrophysical systems. You'll develop practical skills in laboratory work, programming, and data analysis, and apply astronomical methods to real data from the university's observatory and international facilities. In your final year, you'll complete an independent research project under the supervision of an active astrophysics researcher, developing investigative, analytical, and communication skills. The university's Careers and Employability Service offers tailored support, networking events, and employer connections.

Industry Partnerships & Research:
The Astronomy Centre at Sussex works on international collaborations with facilities such as the James Webb Space Telescope, LIGO, and CERN. Staff are involved in high-profile research and regularly support research fellowship applications (including Royal Society and ERC grants). The university maintains global partnerships with institutions worldwide, enabling student and research exchange, and collaborates with industry through knowledge transfer partnerships and innovation projects. Students benefit from world-class facilities including the university's own observatory.

Accreditation:
The BSc (Hons) Physics with Astrophysics is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IoP), ensuring the degree meets professional standards and is recognised for further professional qualifications and postgraduate study.

Graduate Outcomes:
Students graduate with advanced analytical, computational, and research skills, and the ability to analyse astronomical data and model physical systems. These skills are valued by employers across technical, scientific, and analytical roles in both academia and industry.

Further Academic Progression:
After your BSc (Hons) Physics with Astrophysics at Sussex, you can pursue an MSc in astrophysics, astronomy, or related fields at Sussex or other leading universities. The program also prepares you for professional roles in research, industry, education, or science communication, supported by Sussex's strong research environment, faculty mentorship, and extensive industry and global partnerships