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University of Essex homepage Departments Government
Department

Government

Artwork of faces representing Government

World leaders in political science

We ask difficult questions to find important answers - where will the next civil war start? Can we predict social unrest from tweeting patterns? Why should we obey the law? We'll help you understand how the forces that shape our world really work.

We train you to be fearless and independent, to question everything and draw on the broadest possible range of facts and ideas to get both sides of the story.

100% of our research environment is world-leading or internationally excellent (Grade Point Average, REF 2021). Our academics are some of the biggest names in the field, giving you unrivalled access to the best minds in politics. As well as conducting ground-breaking research, your lecturers advise political parties, governments and international NGOs.

If you want to study with the best and challenge your own opinions to uncover the truth, welcome home.

 

 

Our courses
Professor Faten Ghosn, Head of the Department of Government at the University of Essex.
"We welcome you to join our diverse and inspiring community of political thinkers and influencers. Together we will champion your success, deepen your understanding of the political landscape, and help you advance it."
Professor Faten Ghosn Head of the Department of Government University of Essex
Undergraduate study

Question everything

We want you to challenge us. We teach you to always ask the 'how do you know?' question, moving from opinion to evidence.
Masters study

Argue with evidence

We teach you to always use data when trying to prove or disprove your question, working closely with some of the biggest names in the field.

Research degrees

Learn how to think critically

Our staff don't just teach you politics, they teach you how to think and write about politics to change the world for the better.

Why
choose us?

You have access to some of the best minds in politics and the biggest names in the field
2nd in UK for research outputs in politics and international studies (Grade Point Average, REF 2021)
12th in the UK for politics (The Guardian University Guide 2026)
Awarded Q-Step Affiliate status to develop your quantitative skills
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Latest news
Essex ranked fifth best in UK for Political Science
10 Dec 2025
ResearchPlus: New collaborative of research-focused universities launches
28 Oct 2025
Workshop focuses on impact of multilingualism on conflict
23 Oct 2025
View all Government news
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Get in touch with us

If you would like any more information about Government or have a question you would like to ask, please complete this short enquiry form.

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Contact us
Department of Government University of Essex
Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, CO4 3SQ
Telephone: 01206 872759
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  • +44 (0) 1206 873333
  • University of Essex
  • Wivenhoe Park
  • Colchester CO4 3SQ

 

 

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