University of Essex

MSc Political Psychology

University of Essex

Course overview

The University of Essex MSc Political Psychology course explains how people's thoughts and feelings shape global politics. This course explores how individual opinions and choices shape major political issues, including emotions, identity, political disagreements, and the causes of radicalisation. The respected Government department at the University of Essex runs this programme. 

A significant part of this Master's is teaching advanced quantitative research methods (using numbers and data) in political science, which are very useful for future jobs or for continuing study at a higher level. Your work will be assessed through different types of coursework, including essays, practice exercises, presentations, in-class tests, and a substantial dissertation (a long research paper).

Entry requirements

Candidates are required to submit a personal statement and a relevant academic and/or employer reference. Students can upload their CVs with their applications to demonstrate their work experience. 

Grade Requirements:

  • Applicants are expected to have attained at least a second-class undergraduate degree or its international equivalent in subjects such as Political Science, International Relations, Economics, or Statistics. 

  • Alternatively, a degree in a different field may be considered if it includes successful study in two relevant academic units, or if the applicant has five years of relevant professional experience with an organisation such as a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) or a government body. A first-class degree in any subject will also be accepted. 

English Proficiency:

  • Applicants from a non-English speaking background need to score an overall band of 6.5 in the IELTS Academic test, with a minimum component score of 5.5 in all other sections, or submit equivalent recognised test scores.

Scholarships

  • Alumni Loyalty Discount

    First Class or Distinction, 2.1 or Merit, 2.2 or successful completion of a Masters, Graduate or PG Diploma - 20%.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Essex Futures BT– Masters Scholarship

    School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering (CSEE) is delighted to be offering up to six scholarship worth £5,500 each for 1 year full time.

    Up to £5,500

  • Global Talent Masters Scholarship

    You could be eligible for a scholarship worth £5,000, paid as a discount on your tuition fee.

    Up to £5,000

  • Hugh Brogan Bursary

    If you are applying to study a History MA degree, you could be eligible for one of four available cash bursaries worth £2,500.

    Up to £2,500

  • Postgraduate Masters (PGT) International Health Bursary

    The University is offering a bursary of £776 for Masters (PGT) international students.

    Up to £776

  • Postgraduate Premium Pathway Scholarship

    You could be eligible for a tuition fee discount of £6,500, for your first year of study at Essex.

    Up to £6,500

  • Sociology and Criminology - Fuller PGT Scholarship

    The Department of Sociology and Criminology is offering scholarships of £11,025 to support six postgraduate students to study within the department in 2026-2027.

    Up to £11,025

  • The Eleonore Koch Travel Fund

    The School of Philosophical, Historical & Interdisciplinary Studies is offering a bursary of up to £5,000.

  • The Essex MBA Dean's Award

    The school is able to offer fee discounts between 10% - 100% of tuition fee value.

  • The Ronald J. Hill Fund

    The department of Government is offering a bursary of £3,000 to assist one postgraduate student within the department of Government to assist with tuition fees or living costs.

    Up to £3,000

  • University of Sanctuary Scholarship

Career opportunities

Graduates of this course work as:

  • Policy Advisor (within The Civil Service)

  • Local Government Officer

  • International Development Consultant (at The World Bank)

  • Political Analyst (at the United Nations)

  • Security Specialist (at NATO)

  • Market Research Consultant (at YouGov)

Cost of study

International students taking the MSc Political Psychology at the University of Essex are required to pay £23,875 per year.

Admission

International students can apply directly to the University for the University of Essex MSc Political Psychology. Our experienced advisors are available to assist you.

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