Metadata
Title
Genetics BSc (Hons)
Category
undergraduate
UUID
49a1112954b94324bcf78dd77b4fcc3c
Source URL
https://www.sussex.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/genetics-bsc-hons
Parent URL
https://www.sussex.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/
Crawl Time
2026-03-25T01:21:45+00:00
Rendered Raw Markdown

Genetics BSc (Hons)

Source: https://www.sussex.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/genetics-bsc-hons Parent: https://www.sussex.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/

Enter the fast-paced and exciting field underpinning modern biology. Explore evolving genetic methods to study gene functions for human health and disease.

Select your start date

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Key information

3 years full time - ### Typical A-level offer

ABB-BBB - ### UCAS code

C400 - ### Start date

September 2027 - ### Location

On campus - in person

Why choose this course at Sussex?

Come to Sussex to study genetics, a fast-paced and exciting field of modern biology. It’s having a profound impact on society. Recent technological advances in genome editing and sequencing have transformed our ability to study gene function. These developments underpin human health, biotechnology and biodiversity conservation.

At Sussex, our genetics expertise spans areas such as cancer biology, neurological and genetic disorders, and genome organisation and function. Our experts use modern methods in genetics to track down disease-related genes and to identify new drug treatments. We’re also home to the Genome Damage and Stability Centre, a University of Sussex Centre of Excellence.

In the School of Life Sciences, you’ll join a friendly and supportive community of students and academics. Your teaching is based on the latest research, and on your course, you’ll:

Our courses prepare you for a variety of careers, which could include:

Our courses adapt to the latest demands of the working world and are informed by our Employer Advisory Panel of key organisations which hire our graduates. Our employability strand develops research skills, professional competencies, and includes dedicated sessions with our Careers and Entrepreneurship Team to help you bolster your CV, train for interviews, map out career trajectories, and more.

MSci or BSc?

We also offer this course as a four-year MSciFind out about the benefits of an integrated Masters year.

Every day, I collaborate with experts who are trying to make significant contributions in biomedical research, which is extremely stimulating and rewarding.”Jack Coutts\ Genetics BSc\ Read Jack’s story\

How to apply

Undergraduate Visit Days

Learn more about your chosen course, explore our distinctive campus, and meet our staff and students.

Book a Visit Day

On campus - in person

You’ll study for this degree on our campus, joining our academics and fellow students. With in-person contact time, digitally supported educational resources, library collections and independent study, this course is designed to give you an inclusive education. Your learning experience may also include work placements, field trips, studying abroad and internationalisation experiences.

Find out about our beautiful campus

Take our virtual tour

Be inspired by our beautiful campus and buzzing Brighton in this immersive 360° experience.

Begin your tour

As a founding partner of ResearchPlus, a collaboration of research-focused universities, we engage with government, industry and civil society to support economic growth, prosperity and wellbeing across the whole of the UK.

Find out more

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Modules

### Your modules

#### 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

### Your degree

In your first year, you’ll build a solid foundation in topics relevant to genetics. You’ll learn about the biology of living systems and the molecular and cellular mechanisms supporting life. You’ll be introduced to experimental methods, key quantitative and computational skills, the principles of scientific reasoning and you’ll explore the ethics of science within society. This includes the use of AI.

#### Teaching

Teaching methods typically include a mix of lectures, seminars and workshops, and practicals (both laboratory practicals and workshops).

60%: Lecture\ 15%: Seminar\ 25%: Practical

#### Assessment

Assessment methods typically include written pieces, reports, problem sets, online tests and multiple-choice question-based exams.

#### Contact hours and workload

This year of study includes approximately 1,200 hours of work. This breaks down into about 200 hours of contact time and about 1,000 hours of independent study.

Engage and actively participate throughout your studies to get the most out of your course. - Year 2 at Sussex

### Your modules

#### 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.

##### Autumn teaching

##### Spring teaching

### Your degree

In Year 2, you’ll explore genetics in depth. This includes the human genome, development, genetic disease, evolution, gene therapy, and the role of protein structure in gene function. You’ll choose options in disease and pharmacology, or in neuroscience. You’ll develop your technical and analytical skills in laboratory practical classes, teamwork and computer workshops. A genetics project will give you opportunities to produce and analyse experimental data.

#### Teaching

Teaching methods typically include a mix of lectures, seminars and workshops, and practicals (both laboratory practicals and workshops).

65%: Lecture\ 5%: Seminar\ 30%: Practical

#### Assessment

Assessment methods typically include written pieces, reports, problem sets, group presentations and short answer-based exams.

#### Contact hours and workload

This year of study includes approximately 1,200 hours of work. This breaks down into about 250 hours of contact time and about 950 hours of independent study.

Engage and actively participate throughout your studies to get the most out of your course. - Experience Year

### 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 Life Sciences students have gone on placements at:

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 - Year 3 at Sussex

### Your modules

#### 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

##### 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.

##### Autumn teaching

##### Spring teaching

### Your degree

In Year 3, you’ll choose from a broad range of advanced topics taught by leading researchers. You’ll be supported to develop graduate-level scientific skills, such as critical analysis of primary research, science communication, and innovation in scientific methods. Central to this is an individual research project, under the direct supervision of an academic. You’ll choose your project from a range of topics and types. These may include experimental wet-lab projects, systematic literature reviews, computer-based data analysis or public outreach activity.

#### Teaching

Teaching methods typically include a mix of lectures, seminars and workshops, and practicals (both laboratory practicals and workshops). The individual research project primarily involves one-to-one teaching in the form of dissertation supervision.

55%: Lecture\ 10%: Seminar\ 10%: Practical\ 25%: One-to-one

#### Assessment

Assessment methods typically include written pieces, reports, problem sets, presentations (both individual and within a group), group written submissions, online tests, a dissertation, and exams requiring longer answers and analysis of data.

#### Contact hours and workload

This year of study includes approximately 1,200 hours of work. This breaks down into about 250 hours of contact time and about 950 hours of independent study.

Engage and actively participate throughout your studies to get the most out of your course.

Spirit of Sussex Award

Feel involved in life at the University, make friends and enrich your experience with us – the Spirit of Sussex Award is our way of recognising your extracurricular and voluntary achievements.

Find out more about the Spirit of Sussex Award

Hi everyone! As I'm sure you've all heard by now, the Spirit of Sussex Award is now live.

Students across the Sussex community are already earning their points

What will you do to earn yours?

There's so many ways to get involved.

Head over to the website to start your Spirit of Sussex journey.

Text: The Spirit of Sussex Award is an exciting new programme designed to recognise and celebrate the things you do outside your course.

Participating in the Award makes it easy and fun for you to get involved and make the most of university life.

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 2026/27. 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 2027 for more details of the modules running in the academic year 2027/28.

[Music starts – light pop – no vocals]

#### On screen text

Want to help shape a better world through science?

Want to tackle real world problems?

And create world-changing impact?

It all starts at the University of Sussex.

Our research focussed courses span the whole of Life Sciences:

Chemistry

Biochemistry

Neuroscience

Biology

Zoology

Ecology and Conservation

Biomedical Science

Genetics

Using the latest in cutting-edge advances.

Guided by world-leading experts.

Gain hands-on experience, in both our teaching labs and out in the field.

Influence important policies on things such as the pesticides that kill our wildlife, and policies that protect endangered species.

Work towards unlocking the secrets of the brain and ending the despair of cancer and Alzheimer’s.

Join a community of leading scientists and like-minded students striving to make the world a better place for all.

And follow in the footsteps of our 3 Nobel-prize winning alumni.

We’re here today, to train the scientists of tomorrow.

And you could be one of them.

Find out more about the School of Life Sciences at sussex.ac.uk

[Music ends]

How to apply

Our experts

Modern genetics is really important for many aspects of our lives, including diagnosis and treatment of human diseases, the production of pharmaceuticals and improved crops, evolution and conservation.”Dr Jon Baxter\ Reader, Genome Damage and Stability

Dr Jon Baxter

Associate Professor

View profile of Jon Baxter

Dr Alessandro Bianchi

Associate Professor

View profile of Alessandro Bianchi

Prof Keith Caldecott

Professor of Genome Stability

View profile of Keith Caldecott

Prof Tony Carr

Emeritus Professor

View profile of Tony Carr

Dr Kok-Lung Chan

Associate Professor in Chromosome Dynamics and Stability

View profile of Kok-Lung Chan

Prof Aidan Doherty

Professor of Biochemistry

View profile of Aidan Doherty

Prof Helfrid Hochegger

Professor of Genome Stability

View profile of Helfrid Hochegger

Prof Timothy Humphrey

Professor of Translational Research and Genome Stability

View profile of Timothy Humphrey

Prof Alan Lehmann

Research Professor, Molecular Genetics

View profile of Alan Lehmann

Dr Jo Murray

Emeritus

View profile of Jo Murray

Prof Matt Neale

Professor

View profile of Matt Neale

Prof Mark O'Driscoll

Professor Of Human Molecular Genetics

View profile of Mark O'Driscoll

Dr Antony Oliver

Principal Research Fellow

View profile of Antony Oliver

Prof Laurence Pearl

Professor of Structural Biology

View profile of Laurence Pearl

Prof Ulrich Rass

Professor of Genome Stability

View profile of Ulrich Rass

Prof Evi Soutoglou

Professor of Genome Stability

View profile of Evi Soutoglou

Apply now

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Careers

Our courses cover a wide genetics background. You can specialise according to your interests:

Embedded employability

This course is designed to meet the latest demands of the working world. It’s informed by our Employer Advisory Panel of key organisations hiring our graduates.

Throughout your studies, you’ll develop research skills and professional competencies. Sessions with our Careers and Entrepreneurship Team will help you bolster your CV, train for interviews and map out career trajectories.

Where do our graduates work now?

Surveyed 15 months after finishing their courses, our recent Genetics graduates worked for employers including:

(Graduate Outcomes Survey 2017-2022)

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

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:

Explore how our Careers and Entrepreneurship team can support you

How to apply

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Entry requirements

A-level

Typical offer ABB-BBB
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 at least one science from Biology, Chemistry, Human Biology, Marine Science, Mathematics, Pure Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics, Environmental Science, Sports Science, Computing, Geography, Geology, Psychology, Statistics, Life & Health Sciences (Double Award). You will also normally need to pass the separate science practical assessment in at least one of the science subjects. If you are not able to take the science practical assessment, applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
GCSEs You will normally need GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and two Science subjects with grade 5 in each (or grade B).
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

Additional UK qualifications

Access to HE Diploma

Typical offer Pass Diploma with at least 39 level 3 credits at Merit or above including 24 credits at Distinction
Subjects Substantial amounts of Level 3 credits in science subjects.
GCSEs You will normally need GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and two Science subjects with grade 5 in each (or grade B).

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

Typical offer M1 M2 M2 If you have one A-level and two Cambridge Pre-U Principal Subjects we would expect you to have grade A at A-level and, M2 and M2 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 Pre-U.
Subjects A-level or Cambridge Pre-U Principal Subjects must include at least one from A-level listing above. You will also normally need to pass the separate science practical assessment in at least one of the science subjects. If you are not able to take the science practical assessment, applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
GCSEs You will normally need GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and two Science subjects with grade 5 in each (or grade B).

International Baccalaureate

Typical offer 32 points overall from the full IB Diploma.
Subjects Higher Levels must include at least one from Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Geography, Mathematics, Physics or Psychology with at least grade 5.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma and one A-level

Typical offer Grade B in A-level and Distinction, Distinction in Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma.
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 need to be one of the relevant sciences listed in the A-level section above (with at least grade B). Applicants combining a different A-level with the BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Applied Science will be considered on a case-by-case basis. If you have taken a science A-level you will also normally need to pass the separate science practical assessment in a science subject. If you are not able to take the science practical assessment, applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
GCSEs You will normally need GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and two Science subjects with grade 5 in each (or grade B).

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

Typical offer Grades BB in A-levels and 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 need to be one of the relevant sciences listed in the A-level section above at grade B. If you have taken a science A-level you will also normally need to pass the separate science practical assessment in a science subject. If you are not able to take the science practical assessment, applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
GCSEs You will normally need GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and two Science subjects with grade 5 in each (or grade B).

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma)

Typical offer DDM
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 The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma will need to be in Applied science and must include the following modules For the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma, please contact admissions ug.applicants@sussex.ac.uk
GCSEs You will normally need GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and two science subjects with grade 5 in each (or grade B).

Scottish Highers

Typical offer AABBB
Subjects Highers must include one or two science subjects. Ideally, you will have at least one science subject (Biology, Chemistry or Physics) at Advanced Higher.
GCSEs You will also need Scottish National 5 in Mathematics and two sciences at grade B.

T Level

Typical offer Pass T-Level with an overall grade of Merit including grade B in the Core Component
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 Science or Animal Care and Management (only if the Animal Care and Science pathway is taken).
GCSEs You will also need GCSE (or equivalent) in Mathematics and two science subjects with grade 5 in each (or grade B)

Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced

Typical offer ABB from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate and two A-levels
Subjects A-level needs to be one of the relevant science A-levels listed in the A-level section above.
GCSEs You will normally need GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and two Science subjects with grade B in each (or grade 5).

International Baccalaureate

Typical offer 32 points overall from the full IB Diploma.
Subjects Higher Levels must include at least one from Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Geography, Mathematics, Physics or Psychology with at least grade 5.

European Baccalaureate

Typical offer Overall result of at least 77%.
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential (at least a score of 8). Also you will need to have a good ability in mathematics.

Additional international qualifications

Australia

Typical offer Relevant state (Year 12) High School Certificate, and between 88% to 85% in the ATAR or UAI/TER/ENTER,  or a Queensland OP of 4 to 5 or better.
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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 between 2.0 to 2.2 or better for first-year entry.
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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 academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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 academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Canada

Typical offer Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) 70%-75% from 6 grade 12 U, U/C or M courses. British Columbia Certificate of Graduation AABBB-BBBBB 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 academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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 academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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 between 4 and 4.2
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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 between 18/20 and 18.5/20 will be considered for first-year entry.
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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.
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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 on the new grading scale.
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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 between MMMM - EMMM
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in either Biology, Chemistry and Physics with good results are essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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 between 12/20 and 13/20.
Additional requirements Successful students will need to be taking the science strand within the French Baccalauréat with good results (12/20) in at least one science subject from Biology, Chemistry or Physics and have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Germany

Typical offer German Abitur with an overall result of 2.0 to 2.2 or better.
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results (12/15) in at least one science from Biology, Chemistry or Physics and have a good level of Mathematics. 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 between 18 and 18.5 will be considered for first-year entry. You must also have either Apolytirion pathway in at least one from Biology, Chemistry or Physics with a score of 19 or the Pan Hellenic in at least one from Biology, Chemistry or Physics with an overall score of 17.
Additional requirements You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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, 4, 4 to 4, 4, 4 from three subjects including two electives.
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in either Biology, Chemistry and Physics with good results are essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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 55544.
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in either Biology, Chemistry and Physics with good results are essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

India

Typical offer Standard XII results for entry into 1st year (depending on board and course choice): - 70%-80% from ISC Indian School certificate of Education (CISCE) - 70%-80% from SSC All India Senior School Certificate Examination (CBSE) - 70%-80% Maharashtra HSC Higher Secondary Certificate - 70%-80% Tamil Nadu Board of Higher Secondary Education - 70%-80% Karnataka Secondary Education Examination Board - 70%-80% Telangana State Board of Secondary Education - 70%-80% Kerala Board of Higher Secondary Education - 80% Andhra Pradesh Board of Secondary Education - 80% Bihar School Examination Board - 80% Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board - 70% West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education We will also consider students for entry into our integrated foundation years with 60+%
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in either Biology, Chemistry and Physics with good results are essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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 academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics.
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,H2,H2,H3,H3 to H2,H2,H2,H3,H3.
Additional requirements Highers will need to include at least one from Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Mathematics Psychology or Physics, with a grade H1. You must have at least grade O3 in Mathematics. 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 academic studies to a high level in either Biology, Chemistry and Physics with good results are essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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 between 78/100 and 81/100.
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in either Biology, Chemistry and Physics with good results are essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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 academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics.
Please note Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Kazakhstan

Typical offer Applicants with Nazarbayev Intellectuals Schools (NIS) Grade 12 Certificate may be considered. Thegrades in the offer will match the published A level requirements for each course.
Additional requirements Where courses have specific subject requirements, these will be expected to be studied at Advanced level.
Subject-specific knowledge Evidence of academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics.
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 academic studies to a high level in either Biology, Chemistry and Physics with good results are essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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 academic studies to a high level in either Biology, Chemistry and Physics with good results are essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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 between 43-46 points overall.
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in either Biology, Chemistry and Physics with good results are essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Malaysia

Typical offer at least Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) with grades of BBB, Matriculation with a least a grade of 3.0 or UEC with an overall average grade B4 (70%) from 6 subjects.
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in either Biology, Chemistry and Physics with good results are essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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 7.
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in either Biology, Chemistry and Physics with good results are essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in either Biology, Chemistry and Physics with good results are essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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.
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in either Biology, Chemistry and Physics with good results are essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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 academic studies to a high level in either Biology, Chemistry and Physics with good results are essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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 in the 75th percentile including at least one from Biology, Chemistry or Physics.
Additional requirements You must have a good level of Mathematics. 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 between 16/20 and 17/20.
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in either Biology, Chemistry and Physics with good results are essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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 between 8.0 and 8.5 including a score of 8 in either Biology, Chemistry or Physics.
Additional requirements You must have a good level of Mathematics. 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 academic studies to a high level in science subjects with good results is essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics.
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.
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in either Biology, Chemistry and Physics with good results are essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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 above 2.0 from 4 subjects including at least one from Biology, Chemistry or Physics.
Additional requirements You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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 23 points overall.
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in either Biology, Chemistry and Physics with good results are essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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.
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in either Biology, Chemistry and Physics with good results are essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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 between 7.5 and 8.0.
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in either Biology, Chemistry and Physics with good results are essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Sri Lanka

Typical offer Sri Lankan A-levels.
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in either Biology, Chemistry and Physics with good results are essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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 B grades in the majority of subjects and to include grade B in in either Biology, Chemistry or Physics.
Additional requirements You must have a good level of Mathematics. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Switzerland

Typical offer Federal Maturity Certificate.
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in either Biology, Chemistry and Physics with good results are essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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. 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
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in either Biology, Chemistry and Physics with good results are essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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 considering everything you are studying, including the High School Graduation Diploma, Grade 12 GPA, SAT tests and subject tests and/or ACT grades and AP tests. We expect to see a combination of these qualifications. Alongside your High School Graduation Diploma, we would ideally like to see 3 good AP scores with either, a combined SAT test score (evidence-based reading and writing and mathematics) of 1300, or a combined ACT score of 26 AP and SAT Subject tests Please check the individual course pages for our typical A-level offer and see below for the corresponding scores we would require from AP test scores: --- --- A Level requirements AP test grades AAA
Additional requirements Evidence of academic studies to a high level in either Biology, Chemistry and Physics with good results are essential. You must also have a good level of Mathematics. 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.

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.

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 (grade 6 or above in GCSE from 2017).

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

Select to see the list of exempt English-speaking countries

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

** 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.

English language support

If you don’t meet the English language requirements for your degree, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course

Additional admissions information

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

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A-level - contextual offer

BBC-BCC

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma and one A-level - contextual offer

Grade B in A-level and Merit, Merit in Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma.

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

Grades BC in A-levels and Merit in BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma) - contextual offer

DMM

T Level - contextual offer

Pass T-Level with an overall grade of Merit including grade C in the Core Component

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