Political Behaviour

Political Behaviour at the University of Essex offers students an in-depth exploration of how individuals and groups engage with politics, influence political processes, and shape public policies. This programme is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the theories, methodologies, and real-world applications related to political psychology, voter behavior, political communication, and social movements. Students will examine the factors that drive political participation, the role of identity and ideology, and the impact of media and technology on political engagement. The curriculum combines core modules with specialised options, enabling students to tailor their studies to their interests and career aspirations. Throughout the course, students will engage in rigorous research, analyze empirical data, and participate in debates on contemporary political issues. The programme emphasizes critical thinking and practical skills, preparing graduates for careers in politics, journalism, public relations, NGOs, or further academic pursuit. With expert faculty members, state-of-the-art research facilities, and strong links to governmental and non-governmental organizations, students will be supported in developing their understanding of political behaviour in both local and global contexts. The university's vibrant research environment fosters an innovative learning experience, encouraging students to contribute to ongoing debates and research projects. Whether you aim to understand the psychological underpinnings of voting, the dynamics of social activism, or the effect of digital media on political participation, this programme provides a solid foundation and a pathway to making a meaningful impact in the field of political science.

Political Behaviour at the University of Essex explores how individuals and groups engage with political processes, institutions, and ideas. This programme offers students a comprehensive understanding of the psychological, social, and cultural factors that influence political decision-making, voting behaviour, public opinion, and political participation. Throughout the course, students will analyze a range of theories and empirical studies to develop critical insights into contemporary political phenomena.

The programme covers key topics such as electoral systems, political ideologies, media influence, and the role of identity and partisanship in shaping political attitudes. Students will examine the behavior of voters, politicians, interest groups, and other political actors within diverse political contexts, both locally and globally. Methodological skills are an integral part of the course, including quantitative and qualitative research techniques, enabling students to design and conduct their own investigations into political behaviour.

Students will benefit from a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, and interactive discussions, fostering an engaging learning environment. The programme also emphasizes the application of theoretical knowledge to real-world issues, encouraging students to critically evaluate current political events and trends. Additionally, students will have opportunities to undertake independent research projects, work collaboratively with peers, and engage with guest speakers from political practice and academia.

Career prospects for graduates of the Political Behaviour programme are broad, including roles in public policy, political consultancy, journalism, campaigning, international organizations, and further academic research. The programme is designed to develop analytical skills, political awareness, and a nuanced understanding of the factors that shape political actions and decisions in democratic societies.

By the end of the programme, students will have acquired a sophisticated understanding of political behaviour theories and methods, equipping them to contribute thoughtfully and effectively to debates and initiatives aimed at understanding and improving political processes. The University of Essex’s vibrant academic community and its strong emphasis on research-informed teaching ensure that students are prepared for diverse professional paths or further study in political science or related fields.

The Political Behaviour programme at the University of Essex is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the ways in which individuals and groups engage with political processes and institutions. The curriculum covers a broad range of topics including voter behavior, political participation, public opinion, political psychology, electoral systems, and campaign strategies. Students will explore theoretical frameworks and empirical research methods used to analyze political behavior across different contexts and countries. The programme emphasizes both qualitative and quantitative research skills, enabling students to critically evaluate political data and conduct their own research projects. Core modules include Introduction to Political Behaviour, Methodology in Political Science, and Advanced Topics in Political Psychology. Elective modules offer opportunities to study contemporary issues such as social movements, political communication, and the influence of media on public opinion. The programme aims to develop students’ analytical and critical thinking skills, preparing them for careers in politics, public policy, research, or further academic study. To graduate, students must complete a combination of lecture-based coursework, seminars, group projects, and independent research assignments. In addition to written assessments, students may be required to deliver presentations and participate in debates to enhance their communication skills. The programme encourages active engagement with current political debates and provides opportunities for internships and placements in political organizations or research institutes. Students are also expected to undertake a dissertation project that involves original research on a topic related to political behaviour. Entry requirements typically include a minimum of UCAS points suitable for undergraduate admission, with a preference for applicants demonstrating interest in politics or social sciences. The programme is delivered through a mix of lectures, seminars, workshops, and online learning modules, facilitated by expert faculty members with extensive research experience in political science and behavioral studies. Overall, the programme aims to prepare students for the complexities of modern political engagement, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to analyze political phenomena and contribute meaningfully to societal debates.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of Essex offers a comprehensive financing package for students enrolled in the Political Behaviour programme, designed to support both domestic and international students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees for this program vary depending on the student’s residency status. For UK students, the standard annual tuition fee is approximately £9,250, whereas international students are charged around £17,600 per year. These fees cover access to lectures, seminars, library resources, and student support services.

In addition to tuition fees, students may incur costs related to course materials, living expenses, and personal expenses. The university provides detailed guidance on estimated living costs, which typically range from £9,000 to £12,000 per year for accommodation, food, transportation, and other necessities. Students are encouraged to budget accordingly and explore various funding options.

The University of Essex offers a range of scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid programs aimed at making education accessible. For example, academic excellence scholarships are available for high-achieving applicants, providing partial fee waivers or reductions. International students can apply for specific scholarships such as the Essex International Scholarships, which offer significant reductions in tuition fees. Additionally, the university collaborates with external organizations to facilitate government student loans and sponsorships.

Students are advised to apply early for funding opportunities, as some awards are limited in number and competitive. The university also supports students in exploring external sources of funding, including governmental aid, private scholarships, and work-study opportunities. The Work-Study Programme at Essex enables eligible students to combine part-time employment with their studies, helping to offset living costs.

For students requiring financial assistance, the university’s Student Support Service provides advice on financial planning, managing debt, and accessing emergency funds if necessary. International students are also advised to research visa and living cost requirements in the UK, as well as opportunities for part-time work permitted under their visa conditions.

Overall, the University of Essex is committed to supporting students financially through a combination of university-funded scholarships, external aid, work opportunities, and tailored advice. This integrated approach aims to ensure that students can focus on their academic pursuits in Political Behaviour without undue financial stress, fostering an environment conducive to academic success and personal development.

Political Behaviour at the University of Essex offers students an in-depth understanding of how individuals and groups engage with politics, how political opinions are formed, and the factors that influence political participation and attitudes. The program examines various aspects of political psychology, voting behavior, public opinion, and the role of media in shaping political perceptions. Students will explore theories and methodologies used for analyzing political behaviour across different contexts and societies, gaining insights into electoral processes, political activism, and social movements. The curriculum combines theoretical frameworks with practical skills such as data analysis, survey research, and critical thinking, preparing graduates for careers in political consultancy, research, journalism, public administration, and advocacy. The programme emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, drawing on psychology, sociology, and political science, to develop a comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved in political engagement. Students also have opportunities for empirical research, internships, and collaborations with political organizations, enhancing their practical experience. The program benefits from Essex’s strong focus on research-led teaching, engaging students with current debates and policy issues, and fostering an environment of critical inquiry. Graduates of the programme will have the analytical tools to interpret political phenomena, evaluate policy impacts, and contribute thoughtfully to democratic processes. With small class sizes and dedicated academic support, students can expect personalized guidance and active participation in seminar discussions and research projects. The program is suitable for individuals interested in understanding political behaviour at local, national, and international levels, and who aspire to careers in politics, academia, or the media. Overall, the degree offers a rigorous and dynamic academic experience that prepares students to become informed, critical, and active participants in politics and society.