Physics with Astrophysics Mphys

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Sussex

Program Overview

This program is ideal for students who want to explore the universe from the smallest particles to the largest galaxies, combining advanced physics with specialist astrophysics training. It suits those eager to gain a deep understanding of both theoretical and observational astrophysics while working alongside Sussex’s internationally recognised research groups.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

You’ll establish a strong foundation in physics and mathematics through modules such as Foundations of Data Analysis, Mathematical Methods for Physics 1 & 2, Mechanics, and Heat and Modern Physics. Alongside this, you’ll study Introduction to Astrophysics, gaining your first insights into stellar evolution and cosmology, while developing practical skills in the Physics Year 1 Laboratory and learning Python programming for data analysis.

Year 2

In your second year, you’ll deepen your knowledge with Quantum Physics, Electromagnetism, and Statistical Physics, while expanding your astrophysics expertise through modules like Stars and Galaxies and Cosmology. Laboratory work continues, and you’ll refine your computational skills to prepare for advanced astrophysics research.

Year 3

This year introduces advanced topics including Particle Physics, Condensed Matter Physics, and Quantum Mechanics II, alongside specialist astrophysics modules such as Galaxies and High Energy Astrophysics. You’ll also have opportunities to engage in research placements or optional modules that connect you directly with Sussex’s astrophysics research groups.

Year 4 – Integrated Master’s Year

Your final year focuses on advanced astrophysics and research training. You’ll join one of Sussex’s expert research teams, working on projects in areas such as black holes, quantum gravity, or cosmology. Alongside this, you’ll study specialist modules tailored to your chosen pathway and complete a major dissertation, contributing to ongoing astrophysics research.

Focus Areas

Astrophysics, cosmology, galaxies, high-energy astrophysics, quantum physics, particle physics, computational physics.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will gain advanced skills in data analysis, programming (Python), experimental physics, and astrophysical research. They will be able to design and conduct experiments, interpret astronomical data, and contribute to scientific discovery in both physics and astrophysics.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP), fully meeting the educational requirements for Chartered Physicist status.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

7th in the UK for research environment in Physics (REF 2021, Times Higher Education)
=20th in the UK for Physics (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025)
Silver rating for student experience and outcomes (Teaching Excellence Framework 2023)
86% of Sussex undergraduates complete work experience by graduation (Career Readiness data 2023/24)

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

What makes this program stand out is the way it blends rigorous physics training with hands-on astrophysics experience. From your first year, you’ll be working in laboratories, learning programming, and engaging with real astronomical data. By the time you reach your integrated Master’s year, you’ll be embedded in Sussex’s internationally recognised research groups, contributing to projects in cosmology, galaxies, and quantum gravity. This means you graduate not just with knowledge, but with the kind of practical expertise employers and postgraduate programs value most. Here’s how experiential learning is built into the course:

Specialist Laboratories: Training in the Physics Year 1 Laboratory and advanced labs in later years, covering optics, electromagnetism, condensed matter, and astrophysics experiments.
Programming & Digital Tools: Dedicated modules in Python programming and computational physics, equipping you with skills in data analysis, simulation, and astronomical modelling.
Group Projects: Collaborative coursework and problem-solving sessions designed to build teamwork and communication skills, preparing you for international research collaborations.
Independent Research Project: In your final year, you’ll complete a major dissertation within a Sussex research group, contributing to ongoing astrophysics research in areas such as black holes, galaxies, or cosmology.
Observational Astrophysics: Modules like Stars and Galaxies and Cosmology involve analysing real astronomical data, giving you direct experience with observational techniques.
Research Institutes: Opportunities to engage with Sussex’s internationally recognised centres in astronomy, quantum physics, and cosmology, ensuring you’re part of a vibrant research community.
Libraries & Learning Resources: Access to the University of Sussex Library, with extensive collections in physics, mathematics, and astrophysics, plus digital resources to support your research.
Careers Support: The Career Readiness programme ensures you graduate with practical experience, with 86% of Sussex undergraduates completing work experience by graduation.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Sussex’s MPhys Physics with Astrophysics program are exceptionally well-prepared for careers in both physics and astronomy. Many move into roles such as astrophysicist, data scientist, aerospace consultant, or scientific researcher, while others apply their analytical and computational skills in industries ranging from technology to finance. The integrated Master’s year and strong research environment ensure you’ll be ready for both industry and academia:

University Careers Service: Sussex’s Careers and Entrepreneurship team provides tailored support, including CV workshops, employer networking events, and one-to-one guidance from Faculty Careers Consultants. Physics students also benefit from paid departmental opportunities such as teaching, outreach, and summer research roles.
Employment Stats & Salary Figures: 86% of Sussex undergraduates complete work experience by graduation (Career Readiness data 2023/24), ensuring strong employability outcomes. Physics graduates typically progress into roles with competitive salaries, especially in data-intensive industries.
University–Industry Partnerships: Sussex is a core member of SEPnet (South East Physics Network), linking students to universities and industries across the region. Research collaborations include CERN’s ATLAS experiment, NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, and projects in quantum computing and cosmology.
Long-Term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP), fully meeting the educational requirements for Chartered Physicist status.
Graduate Outcomes: Alumni have secured roles such as aerospace consultant, data analyst, and diagnostic physicist, while others progress into PhDs, MScs, or PGCEs.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MPhys, students are ideally placed to pursue PhD research in astrophysics, cosmology, quantum gravity, or particle physics. Sussex’s Department of Physics and Astronomy offers opportunities to join internationally recognised research groups, while graduates also move into interdisciplinary MSc programs or postdoctoral research worldwide.