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Department of Government

Research degrees

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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.
  • Top 10 in the UK for politics and international studies in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024
  • 2nd in UK for research outputs in politics and international studies (REF 2021)
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Sustainable Transitions scholarships

We are offering seven fully-funded PhD research scholarships for students to participate in one of our Sustainable Transitions DTP projects. Each project will be interdisciplinary in nature and supervised by expert academics drawn from two (and in certain instances three) of the following five disciplines at the university; Business, Government, Law, Life Sciences and Sociology.

View these projects
"If you are committed to excellent research and want to open academic doors, Essex is a great place!"
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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.

Also see
Subject area: Politics and international relations
Postgraduate Research at Essex
A postgraduate research degree will help you develop advanced skills and knowledge in a specialist field. Find out more about how we support your journey, look for funded opportunities, and search for a supervisor.
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.
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