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The University of Sussex- a rough diamond University of Sussex

ratingOverall experience

It was a good experience, one of the best things was the amount of international students on my MA programme. I was in a real minority being British, which was wonderful. I think that once you get to MA level the most important decision should be about how well the course is taught rather than all the other facilities the university has, especially if, as in my case, you complete the degree full-time in one year.

ratingSelection process and gaining admission

I was sorting out my application from overseas (Japan) so that made things more difficult. In general I found the selection process a little secretive, difficult and lengthy. I generally thought the administration of the University was poor.

ratingFunding and scholarships

I applied for a scholarship but didn't get it- however I didn't get any feedback at all. There didn't seem a good system of financial support in place- it didn't feel like the University really cared. My advice for people who have financial concerns is simply to do the MA part-time for two years and to get a paid job alongside their course.

ratingYour study experience

The course was excellent. It was frustrating that some of the specialist options were not available (due, for example to lack of interest from other students and to tutors being on sabbatical). The teaching was first class- they really knew how to educate as well as to be pure academics. For a chunk of the course I felt our hand was being held a little too much but this was mainly due to the press of time and also because some of the other students came from an undergraduate degree programme unconnected to the MA- whereas I had studied politics. Study support was good because at postgrad level the relationship changes a little between teacher and student. To a certain extent you are more like 'collaborators'.

ratingYour life experience

I was proud of attending a university in my home town of Brighton. Brighton is such a great city to be a student in that I have given a rating of 4 out of 5 above. If the rating were only based on the university I would have given one star less. The campus at Sussex is pleasant and it is next to an absolutely beautiful park. There are lots of opportunities for part-time work because Brighton has so many bars, shops and restaurants. The main failing of the University as a postgrad is that at the time we didn't have our own common room or many clubs to get involved with. Although we could join in with the undergrads a lot of things felt like they were geared for them and we were hangers-on at their party. That being said, I was a student rep on various committees so I had more of an obvious opportunity than many of my fellow MA students to be involved with things. I lived with my parents. My impression from fellow students who used university accomodation is that it was well-located but not always conducive to study.

ratingJob prospects

I think it has helped my job prospects, because I think that so many people have first degrees now that having an MA helps. However the job market is such that it is hard to get work whatever qualifications you may have. I don't feel the University has made much of an effort to keep in touch with me since I left. After leaving I worked at an intern for two MPs and currently work for a national charity.

Rankings for this institution

• Times Good University Guide 2012: 14
• SHJT: 102-150

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