Faculty: Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Government. This five-year integrated Master of Politics with Honours (MPol Hons) program provides a comprehensive and advanced understanding of political science and international relations, seamlessly combining undergraduate and Master's level study, and featuring an integrated year spent studying at a partner university abroad. You will explore core concepts in political theory, comparative politics, and international relations, alongside developing advanced research and critical thinking skills. The curriculum covers a wide range of contemporary global issues, such as conflict resolution, human rights, international environmental policy, and the impact of social media on democracy. In your fourth year, you will immerse yourself in a different culture and academic environment by studying at one of Essex's partner institutions around the world. This experience significantly enhances your global perspective, independence, and cross-cultural communication skills. The final year involves Master's-level modules and a substantial research project or dissertation. The program also includes a "Career Portfolio" module to develop employability and life skills.

Career options for graduates of this integrated Master's program are outstanding and notably enhanced by the international exposure and advanced qualifications. The year abroad provides invaluable cross-cultural skills and global awareness, which are highly prized by employers. Graduates are well-prepared for leadership and analytical roles in diverse fields, including national and international government (e.g., fast stream civil service, diplomatic service), international organizations (e.g., UN, EU), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), policy analysis and research (think tanks), journalism, media, and global business and finance. The Department of Government's world-leading research standing ensures graduates are equipped with cutting-edge knowledge and research abilities.

The University of Essex fosters a forward-thinking environment with a diverse international community. Its Department of Government is a centre of world-leading research excellence for the social sciences, consistently ranked among the most prestigious in Europe for its outstanding record of teaching, research, and publication (rated top in the UK for research in Political Science & International Studies in every government assessment exercise since 1986, REF 2021). The university offers a location close to beautiful countryside that's only an hour away from London by train, combining a peaceful setting with easy access to a major global city. The integrated Master's level study combined with a year abroad provides an exceptional academic and cultural experience, significantly boosting global career prospects.