Faculty: Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Government. This one-year full-time (or 24 months part-time) Master of Science (MSc) program in Political Economy is an intellectually rigorous course that provides a deep understanding of the contemporary political economy, with a particular emphasis on the scientific study of political institutions and their influence on economic variables. Run jointly by the Departments of Government and Economics, it covers topics such as market failure, environmental policies, governance quality, monetary policy, and trade. Unlike the MA, the MSc typically places a stronger emphasis on quantitative methods, mathematical methods, and empirical analysis within political economy. It is ideal for students interested in how institutions shape the behavior of political actors and how political decisions influence markets, and vice versa. Core modules cover comparative political economy and research design. Students choose optional modules from both the Department of Government and the Department of Economics, including areas like econometrics, mathematical methods, and various applied economic topics. The program culminates in a dissertation, a significant piece of independent research.

Career options for graduates are diverse and highly valued in various sectors where strong analytical and quantitative skills are essential. Graduates are equipped to pursue careers in academia, consulting, government (local, national, international), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international organizations (e.g., World Bank, UN), think tanks, and public policy analysis. Roles can include policy analyst, economic researcher, political risk analyst, data analyst, or positions within public administration and research. The strong emphasis on developing research and quantitative skills, combined with an understanding of complex global economic and political issues, provides a competitive edge in today's job market. Graduates have gone on to work for organizations like the Civil Service, local government, the World Bank, the United Nations, NATO, and YouGov.

The University of Essex is a forward-thinking university with a diverse international community, offering a rich and inclusive learning environment. Essex is a centre of world-leading research excellence for the social sciences, ensuring students are taught by academics at the forefront of their fields who are actively engaged in impactful research. The university offers a location close to beautiful countryside that's only an hour away from London by train, providing a balance of campus life and access to a major global city. The Department of Government is one of the most prestigious in Europe, with an outstanding record of teaching, research, and publication, consistently highly rated in national assessments. The MSc specifically provides a more scientific and quantitative approach, appealing to those seeking rigorous analytical training.