The Essex website uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are consenting to their use. Please visit our cookie policy to find out which cookies we use and why. View cookie policy.

University of Essex homepage Departments Government Research degrees
Department of Government

Research degrees

Male student in library

Learn how to think critically

We are ranked 2nd in UK for research outputs in politics and international studies
(Grade Point Average, Research Excellence Framework REF 2021).

Consistently ranked top amongst the top in the country for the quality of our political science research, we're renowned for our expertise in political behaviour, comparative politics, ideology and discourse analysis, international relations and conflict resolution.

Whatever the field, politics at Essex is all about moving from opinions to systematic arguments and evidence. Always seeking out cause and effect, our research casts light on important questions across the political range, including some questions that you might never ordinarily connect to politics or government. For example, did you know that people who are more scared of spiders are more conservative?

We work with you to analyse and explain significant political outcomes such as war and peace, transitions to democracy, the way governments shape economy, and the results of the elections. We'll support you throughout your thesis, helping you answer your research question and achieve your potential.


 Explore our postgraduate research degrees 
Why choose us?
  • Be part of an active research team and work with some of the biggest names in the field.
  • Ranked 9th in the UK for Politics and International Studies in the QS World University Rankings by Subject (2023)
  • 2nd in UK for research outputs in politics and international studies (REF 2021)
"If you are committed to excellent research and want to open academic doors, Essex is a great place!"
Nils Metternich phd government

The best minds in politics

Our dedicated staff don't just teach you politics, they teach you how to think and write about politics. As one of our PhD students, you're part of an active research team who work with people all over the world.

You'll be taught by some of the best minds in political science with our staff publishing in leading journals and advising global governments and non-governmental organisations.

How to apply
Applying to study your PhD at Essex is simple. Our online application takes about 20 minutes and our Graduate Admissions team offer advice on what you'll need and what happens after you apply.
Fees and funding
We have a range of scholarships and bursaries available to support talented students from all backgrounds achieve their doctoral study ambitions.
Also see
Subject area: Politics and international relations
Life at Essex
What it's like to live at Essex
Accommodation
Find your new home
Open Days
Come see for yourself
WE ARE
ESSEX ARE YOU?
Get a prospectus Get to know Essex
STUDY
Find a course
LIFE
RESEARCH
EXPLORE
CONTACT US
Contact


  • +44 (0) 1206 873333
  • University of Essex
  • Wivenhoe Park
  • Colchester CO4 3SQ

 

 

University of Essex - Where change happens

CONNECT WITH US
© 2024 University of Essex. All rights reserved