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Pursuing a research degree at Essex means joining the UK's top political science department. We're particularly recognized for our strengths in political behavior, comparative politics, ideology and discourse analysis, international relations, and conflict resolution. At Essex, political studies focus on transforming viewpoints into verifiable facts. Our research consistently explores causal relationships, illuminating crucial political issues and even uncovering unexpected connections to governance.
The program offers advanced research training under the guidance of world-renowned academics. Together, we examine and interpret major political developments including international conflicts, democratic transitions, economic policy impacts, and electoral outcomes.
Numerous alumni secure university positions as postdoctoral researchers or lecturers. Recent graduates hold academic appointments at prestigious institutions like Oxford, UCL, Mannheim, ETH Zurich, Amsterdam, and Duke University.
Other graduates build impactful careers across British, European, and global political spheres. They serve as parliamentary researchers, policy advisors, or work within government agencies, international organizations (including the UN, World Bank, NATO), polling firms like YouGov, or pursue careers in military service, finance, and corporate sectors.