Academic Overview
The University of Sussex offers one of the largest study abroad programs in the UK with a wide range of courses. The Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2011-12 place Sussex in the top 15 institutions in the UK and top 100 in the world. One of the most exciting things about studying at Sussex is the choice and flexibility students are offered in their studies. Since you are not confined to just one subject, you can adapt your study to suit your interests, selecting modules from arts, humanities, social sciences, science, and technology. Teaching takes place primarily in small groups or seminars, with lectures providing an introduction to key themes and debates within each topic. Seminars are likely to be based on the topic of the lecture, combined with one or two presentations from members of the class.  Seminars give you the opportunity to explore issues raised in the lectures and background reading in more depth with other students and faculty. You are also required to write 2-4 essays per module each term. Although the number of contact hours is probably smaller than you are used to - classes usually meet for 1 ½ - 2 ½ a week - this does not mean that less work is required. The emphasis at Sussex is on independent study; to make a success of your time at Sussex you need to be both motivated and self-disciplined in your work. The system is demanding, but once you adapt you will find that the challenge it provides is both stimulating and rewarding. Classes vary in size depending on the modules taken, but there tends to be more contact between students and faculty at Sussex than in many other European universities at level 1. In level 2 and 3 modules, as students become more experienced and independent, there are more lab classes and workshops and fewer tutorials and lectures.  Detailed module descriptions are available online.

Location
The University of Sussex is located only minutes away from the city of Brighton & Hove on the southern coast of England. Brighton has everything: sun, sea, great places to eat, fabulous shops, a truly cosmopolitan atmosphere and it's only an hour from London. Since students form 10% of the city's population, you can be confident that you'll find plenty to satisfy your needs. Brighton has been a popular tourist destination for over 200 years. Highly creative, Brighton has a truly diverse cultural scene with theatres, cinemas, and galleries. Live music is also a way of life, and classical music lovers are well catered for at the Dome, Brighton's restored art deco concert venue. The highlight of the cultural year is the annual Brighton Festival, England's biggest arts festival, attracting hundreds of performers to its three-week run in May. 

Housing
The University of Sussex offers a range of student housing, both on and off campus. Living in University accommodation is one of the best ways to meet new people and settle into life at Sussex. If you decide to study at Sussex for the full academic year, you are guaranteed University-managed accommodation if you apply by June 30. Accommodation for visiting and exchange students attending for only a semester is more limited, though rooms are usually available. You may need to consider alternative housing options, including host family accommodation. All University accommodation is self-catering (meaning there are no meal plans available), usually with communal kitchens. You will need cutlery, pots and pans and kitchen utensils, though it may be more practical to buy these in the UK than to bring them with you. You can purchase University catering packs containing cooking utensils and pots for £30. Bathroom facilities are normally shared. All on-campus rooms have broadband Internet access and telephones. The University provides pillows to students in residence. You may wish to purchase a set of quality new bedding (including duvet, duvet cover, bottom sheet, pillow, pillowcase and bath towel) for around £40.

Costs
Fees for your study at the University of Sussex can be found online. Rents for University-managed accommodation range from £90 to £156  for single and ensuite rooms on campus.

Additional Information
For additional information, please visit the University of Sussex website for international students.  

Application Procedures and Deadlines
Complete instructions for applying, as well as application forms, can be found on the University of Sussex website. Students are advised to submit their applications to Sussex as early as possible as modules fill up quickly. Further information can be obtained from the International and Study Abroad Office at Sussex.