Looking to the future

Ground-breaking research and excellence in teaching were the cornerstones of the infant university founded 40 years ago.
Now ranked tenth in the UK in national research rankings, the University has realised Sir Albert Sloman's vision of a research-led university widely acknowledged for its cutting-edge studies. Research expertise remains the key to the future success of Essex.

The quality of teaching has also been recognised as a major strength, with a national rating of seventh. In line with changing student and employer demands, Essex offers innovative and challenging degrees, specifically designed to meet local, national, and international needs.

The University prides itself on the international nature of the campus community. More than 120 countries are represented amongst the student body and a new partnership with Insearch Ltd, of the University of Technology Sydney, is expected to extend international recruitment.

At the same time Essex is developing its role as a university for the regional community, and is increasingly offering flexible learning opportunities. The Learning Partnerships section provides part-time courses, open to all, as well as business and professional development courses, foundation certificates allowing progress into higher education, and foundation degrees with a focus on work-based learning.

Physically too, the University is expanding. Students are already enjoying the benefits of a new rooftop greenhouse in the Department of Biological Sciences, and high-tech facilities including a robot arena and an intelligent flat are being completed in the new Networks Centre. Planned developments include a second, larger Lecture Theatre Building and a Research Park.

The University's growing presence across the county means Essex degrees are now awarded to students studying in Loughton, Southend and Writtle. In Southend, the unique partnership with South East Essex College will see the development of an educational and cultural quarter serving the needs of the south of the county. By 2006, the University’s new campus, 50 miles from Wivenhoe Park, will transform Southend into a modern university town.

As higher education in the UK faces a major programme of reform, Essex will continue to adapt, while maintaining its ideals of academic excellence, to secure its future for the next 40 years and beyond.