The University of Essex is a progressive modern institution, which delivers an innovative curriculum and a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate degree courses. Established in 1964, it is one of the original plate glass universities. In its nearly sixty-year history, it has met and exceeded expectations for success, winning awards for teaching quality and expanding its programme of education to meet the needs of future societies and industries.
The university offers a superb student experience and provides many academic and extra-curricular opportunities for its undergraduate population of 13,800 students, who comprise a supportive and inclusive international learning community representing students from all over the world.
The University of Essex has three major departments: the Faculty of Humanities; the Faculty of Science and Health and the Faculty of Social Sciences, which are further organised into 21 academic schools.
The main Colchester campus is a large and well-resourced facility, situated within many acres of landscaped parkland including a lake and forested areas. The architecture is designed in a modernist style, with several notable Brutalist structures on site. Student accommodation is provided on campus, meaning students are conveniently located near their studies, and the campus includes all the shops, cafés, bookstores libraries and exercise facilities needed for a well-balanced student lifestyle. The university has two additional satellite campuses in Southend-On-Sea and Loughton.
The University of Essex has cultivated a global network of partner institutions and professional organisations, making it a fantastic place to study at undergraduate level. A degree from Essex is an internationally respected qualification which becomes an asset in the search for competitive and meaningful employment.
University of Essex students on Whatuni say:
"I wouldn’t choose to go to any other uni. It’s so cliché but literally like I just love Essex!… I just feel like Essex is a student-friendly university and everybody is really, really nice. I love the campus too.”
“Overall I feel like Essex is a great place to study, it has great facilities and the events are quite fun.”
" Meeting so many different people, learning so many different things. I would say that the University experience is just mind-opening, that’s the only way to describe it. I’ve changed a lot from when I first came here”
The University of Essex offers a wide selection of undergraduate degree courses, spanning three academic faculties and 21 schools and departments. Students will be able to choose from more than 600 undergraduate programmes.
The university is a global centre of excellence for science, health, arts and humanities, and has been recognised at the highest level for the quality and enthusiasm of its teaching staff. The Essex teaching faculty are highly qualified and widely experienced individuals, many of whom are actively involved in ongoing research into their subject areas. Students benefit from their expertise and industry experience and may even have opportunities to contribute to live research projects.
Students also have the chance to take on extra courses in key areas like data analytics or modern languages at no additional cost, as well go to study at a range of partner institutions across the world.
Undergraduate students also benefit from access to superb learning facilities, fully modernised classrooms and seminar spaces equipped with the latest teaching technologies. There are industry standard laboratories and several libraries, providing thousands of books and documents as well as excellent IT services and support.
University of Essex students on Whatuni say:
“No flaws! The blended teaching, the opportunities, the collaborations, couldn’t have asked for a better course and department.”
“There is a lot of help available to me lecturers are always willing to answer my questions or help me when I need it.”
“The teaching process is great. A lot to learn though, but the staff is quite cooperative and do their best to help us in our difficulties.
Interested? Order a prospectus to find out more about the uni and the courses on offer.
GET PROSPECTUSDue to the variable nature of undergraduate courses available, entry requirements for the University of Essex differ according to the specifics of each application. The university typically gives offers based on the UCAS points tariff system. Prospective students are encouraged to visit the university website to view their course-specific entry requirements. There are, however, many alternative routes to enrolment, and applications are assessed on an individual basis. The university encourages applications from candidates with non-traditional qualifications.
The university considers a wide range of qualifications, including:
Applications for an undergraduate course at the University of Essex will require the following submission materials:
Send a message directly to the uni to learn more about their entry requirements.
ASK A QUESTIONFor the 2023/24 academic year, all full-time undergraduate students are guaranteed placement in university accommodation, provided that they apply before the 5th of September. There are a number of accommodation options available, designed to suit all budgets and preferences, and all provide clean, safe and comfortable housing located within a convenient distance of the university campus.
Options include studios, single rooms with shared facilities and single en suite rooms, as well as shared and self-contained housing which is suitable for single or double occupancy. There are tower buildings and townhouses available, and every option adheres to a strict quality assurance schedule and the Student Accommodation Code of Practices (SAC), ensuring a respectful and inclusive living and learning community.
Costs vary, based on specific conditions, but include utility bills and internet access, ensuring a convenient package which allows easy focus on studying and expanding horizons.
At the Colchester campus, there are seven different types of student housing to choose from. These range from social flats to private studios, so students can pick the accommodation that best suits them. Prices range from £107.52 to £203.28 per week.
Available halls and residences include:
University of Essex students on Whatuni say:
“Spacious and close to uni.”
“The university is situated in a lovely setting and is well-constructed.”
“The room has plenty of storage space, and the kitchen also has plenty of storage, plus kitchen appliances.”
The University of Essex provides a comprehensive programme of resources and facilities across its three UK campuses, investing intelligently in the equipment and opportunities which its undergraduate students have access to.
The university’s Colchester campus is a purpose-built facility, which acts as a self-contained learning environment containing all the amenities needed for academic and personal success. The site also contains coffee shops, cafés and food vendors ensuring that students can easily stay refreshed and refuelled while on campus.
The main library is a state-of-the-art facility with an extensive archive of physical and digital resources, as well as individual and group study spaces and superb IT support.
There is also a dedicated STEM centre, with specialist lab for advanced research and learning. It contains:
Whether it’s a food market, underground club with a 1,200 capacity or cultural and arts events at the Lakeside Theatre, the Colchester campus is the place to be.
University of Essex students on Whatuni say:
“It has some really good facilities and has integrated zoom into the tech they have on campus.”
“The Labs are outstanding.”
“There is a club on campus and good facilities like the library and other learning hubs.”
Find out more about the accommodations and facilities in person at the uni.
BOOK OPEN DAYWhat's it like to study at this institution? Current students and alumni share their opinion...
VIEW 1696 REVIEWS WRITE A REVIEWI Ioanna Reviewed 23 Oct 23 Biological Sciences (Including Foundation Year) BSc (Hons) My university is such a nice place to study. Is a bit away from town but it´s okay. I think some bakeries are missing from campus, but it's not that necessary. We have a store which the prices are not that student friendly and that's why I'm not buying anything from there. The library is big and... READ FULL REVIEW
O Owen Reviewed 10 Mar 23 MSc Research Methods in Psychology BEST - Campus: campus has everything you need all in once place (although campus used to have a bank, pie bus, print shop, career services, IT helpdesk, Nightline, hairdressers - but these have all disappeared. Would be great to have more of these kinda of services/ amenities on campus again, and... READ FULL REVIEW
The University of Essex understands that moving to a new city or country to embark upon an undergraduate degree course can be a daunting prospect. It is dedicated to providing an excellent range of inclusive support services, to ensure that all students have the necessary resources and guidance to focus on their studies and achieve their fullest potential.
The university provides a raft of Student Support Services which are free and confidential, and available to all students. These services include academic support, financial aid, accommodation guidance, health and wellbeing, counselling, disability services and international student advice. These services can be accessed in person at the Support Centre at the main Essex campus, or online through the university’s virtual information hub. Other services include:
Nightline
Essex was the first in the UK to start Nightline, a 24-hour confidential service for students’ mental wellbeing. This service is still running after 52 years so students can pick up the phone at any time, day or night, to get support.
Student Services Hub
The university offers support from our Student Services Hub where students can get confidential advice around money worries, exam stress, health and wellbeing or disability related issues, as well as referral for counselling or mentoring.
Healthcare services
Students can benefit from advice on accessing healthcare at both our Colchester and Southend campuses.
University of Essex students on Whatuni say:
“The University is an incredibly supportive place to study, and it’s so reassuring to know that there is always help available” " I’m very proud of my time at Essex…I worked with Essex Nightline for about three years and I think that’s what kind of inspired me to work in mental health.”
“Every student is assigned a tutor who is your first point of contact for any problems or worries you may have.”
Find out more about the student support offered on the university’s website.
VISIT WEBSITEThe University of Essex is considered world-leading for the social sciences. Over two-thirds of its research was rated as ‘world leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’ (REF 2021). Sociology, economics and econometrics, politics and international studies, and modern languages and linguistics are all in the UK top 10 for research quality (REF 2021).
Overall, we are ranked a Top 40 UK university (The Complete University Guide 2023).
Essex has a strong portfolio of courses spanning a wide range of academic areas. It is a research-intensive university, which is home to three research institutions conducting ground-breaking work into many key areas of study which contribute to addressing current and future societal issues.
Their tutors are highly qualified professionals with a wealth of industry experience, and are able to communicate their insights to students effectively.
The university consistently scores highly in teaching quality metrics, with small average class sizes allowing for a more personalised undergraduate learning experience and plenty of individual contact time with staff.
Undergraduate students at the University of Essex are well supported by many services and departmental teams from the university. The University of Essex Students’ Union (UESU) is a student-run organisation which represents the university community, communicating between the student membership and the university's organisational staff. The SU is co-ordinated by a team of elected officers and performs a number of vital roles such as representing the voice of the student population, promoting any key issues and giving or receiving feedback.
The student’s union is rated 7th in the country for student representation according to National Student Survey 2022.
The SU also contributes to the social and extra-curricular aspect of university life, which is a major factor in cultivating a positive and lasting student experience. The union manages a huge selection of sports teams, clubs and special interest societies, which all students are free to join. These societies are a great way to try something new, develop an existing interest or meet new people, often resulting in friendships which can last a lifetime. The SU runs a timetable of social events and has its own bar and event space, where many of these activities take place.
University of Essex students on Whatuni say:
“Best aspects for me include their never ending supply of events.”
“Great student experience.”
“Very inclusive as a uni.”
Extra-curricular activities are an important part of a well-rounded university experience and offer ample opportunities to meet people from outside the classroom, try new things, invest in skills, and make friendships which can last far longer than the time spent studying.
As a diverse and multicultural university, there are many opportunities for cultural exchange, language learning and appreciation of various peoples and places.
The University of Essex has over 160 clubs and special interest societies, engaging with a broad range of interests and groups from sports teams to film societies, art, photography and theatre, politics and science – as well as plenty of niche appreciation societies and social organisations. Course-specific groups are a great way to build on classroom learning in a self-driven environment, and there are volunteering opportunities and community schemes which are a great way to contribute to the university’s local and regional outreach while gaining experience.
If a society is not already offered, students are encouraged to start one of their own, and will even receive organisational support from the students’ union.
University of Essex students on Whatuni say:
“It’s a great place to make new friends and join societies. In first year, I joined rugby which I had never played, it was just amazing!”
“Best thing would be the societies available to join.”
“The highlight of my experience so far has been the girls night in we had which was organised by Essex Sports.”
Colchester is one of the oldest recorded towns in England and retains a wonderful mixture of historic and contemporary life with much for students to discover and explore. It is a fantastic place to be an undergraduate student, containing all the amenities and entertainment needed for an exciting student experience within close proximity of the campus. Colchester also offers ready access to central London and is only a short journey from one of the longest coastlines in the UK. There are many beaches and charming coastal towns in the region, with excellent seafood and the inimitable holiday atmosphere of a British seaside town.
Colchester is well-connected to public transport networks throughout the UK and beyond, making it a great place from which to discover all the things the country has to offer. The main campus is only 84 kilometres from London by train and is serviced by Southend-on-Sea airport, only 3 kilometres away.
University of Essex students on Whatuni say:
“The town centre is nice, lots of high street shops and restaurants like primark, H&M, nandos etc. Plenty of things to do; bowling, mini golf etc. Colchester is also not too far away from the beach.”
“Night life is great!”
“Good transport connections via bus into town or further afield via train.”
See the campus and city for yourself in person by booking an open day place.
BOOK OPEN DAYIn addition to its award-winning teaching and global research impact, the University of Essex is a career-oriented institution which invests heavily in providing opportunities for its students to prepare for their future careers before they graduate. 88% of Essex graduates are in employment or further study within 6 months of graduating, according to Graduate Outcomes 2022.
The university’s dedicated Careers Service is a hub of information and resources, available to all enrolled students, and even extends its service to graduates to ensure a network of support which continues beyond the duration of study.
This department provides a number of services including CV writing, interview training, careers counselling, assistance with seeking job listings and access to the university's expanded network of alumni and professional partners, who are active in countless employment sectors worldwide.
Undergraduate students also have access to CareerHub, which is a free service that can help students find internships and work placement opportunities while studying. This really helps to enhance CVs and give students a competitive advantage when applying to graduate job positions.
The University of Essex is UK number one for Knowledge Transfer Partnerships, providing access to businesses that want to innovate with graduates.
University of Essex students on Whatuni say:
“University of Essex has provided me with all the knowledge I need in my career.”
“I really love what I am learning on my course, it is interesting and it builds my passion for life.”
" To me, Essex is an opportunity to get a good degree which will help me secure a good job. I think doing a work placement in my third year will really help me achieve my goals.”
The University of Essex is a well-funded institution with a network of generous donors and professional partners. It invests a significant portion of its financial resources into providing a programme of scholarships, bursaries and grants to ensure than all students have the ability to study in confidence and security.
The university offers a number of financial schemes to support students from lower income households, with additional funding packages for those studying on year abroad schemes, those with refugee status, and adult care leavers. There are also country-specific funding opportunities to ensure that students coming from all economic backgrounds do not need to worry about affording the basic cost of living while completing their education in Colchester.
Merit-based scholarships are also available, which gives hard working and motivated individuals the opportunity to subsidise the cost of tuition, through their university work.
Tuition fees for undergraduate students at the University of Essex depend on a range of factors including specific course type and duration, mode and level of study, and each individual's tuition fee status. The university admissions team will assess each candidate's fee status upon application and successful candidates will be notified of their status in their offer letter.
There are different rates for UK students and International students. For the 2023/24 academic year, tuition fees are set at:
Following the UK’s exit from the European Union, all EU students are henceforth subject to International fee status. Prospective students are encouraged to visit the university website for full details.
Send a message directly to the uni to learn more about their scholarships and bursaries.
ASK A QUESTION
Many courses at University of Essex offer an opportunity to do a work placement or sandwich year. These opportunities will help you develop your employability skills, and the careers department is also on hand to offer personal support.
As well as a wide range of courses on offer, University of Essex also has loads of clubs and societies you can join during your studies. Joining societies is just one of the many ways you can tailor your experience at University of Essex to suit you.
With a degree in a subject you love, you'll find more doors opening to jobs you'll love. Studies have also shown that graduates earn more on average compared to non-graduates.
If you want to continue to pursue education, you'll be able to progress to postgraduate study once you've got your undergraduate degree. You could opt to study a master's, or even get a PhD.
Living in uni halls means you'll have access to communal areas including kitchen and dining facilities. These facilities offer you plenty of opportunity to socialise with the students you're living with.
You'll also find all bills are included in your rent, and yes, that includes WiFi. Rent also covers security and maintenance. There are accessible rooms available in halls that have been adapted for disabled students.
