Faculty: Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Government. This 1-year (full-time) Master of Science (MSc) explores the complex interaction between the mass public and political elites in advanced industrial democracies, with a stronger emphasis on quantitative data analysis and advanced research methods compared to the MA. The program introduces students to the latest theoretical debates about the nature, significance, and measurement of public opinion, and how these opinions translate into political participation (e.g., voting behaviour, petitioning, social media campaigns, protest). It delves into how individuals form opinions, how politicians and media influence public opinion, and the spread of political misinformation. The curriculum deeply focuses on quantitative data analysis, survey measurement, research design, and statistical modelling using software like R, equipping students with robust practical skills in analyzing complex polling data. Taught by world-leading academics in a research-intensive environment, this program is ideal for those seeking to conduct rigorous empirical research in public opinion and political behaviour. The course culminates in a substantial dissertation. The program can also be studied part-time over 24 months.

Graduates from this program are equipped with highly advanced analytical, statistical, and research skills, making them particularly valuable in data-driven roles. Career paths include: Senior Polling Industry Analyst/Researcher, Data Scientist (with a political/social focus), Advanced Market Researcher, Political Campaign Data Analyst, Government Social Research Officer, Policy Analyst (with strong quantitative skills), Academic Researcher/PhD Candidate. Recent graduates have gone on to work for high-profile organizations such as the Civil Service, local government, the World Bank, the United Nations, NATO, YouGov, and YouGov America. The strong quantitative emphasis makes graduates highly competitive for roles requiring empirical evidence and data-driven insights.

The University of Essex is renowned for its forward-thinking environment and diverse international community, attracting students from over 140 nationalities. Its Department of Government is a centre of world-leading research excellence for the social sciences, consistently highly rated in national assessments for politics and international studies, especially strong in quantitative political science. This ensures students learn from leading experts and benefit from cutting-edge research and the use of advanced research facilities like ESSEXLab for experimental research. The university offers a location close to beautiful countryside that's only an hour away from London by train, providing a balance of a vibrant academic campus with easy access to major professional and cultural opportunities. The MSc specifically provides advanced training in quantitative methods, preparing graduates for research-intensive careers or further academic study.