University of Essex

Colchester

  • Location: City, Rural

About us

Founded in 1964, we’ve spent 60 years encouraging boldness, bravery and ensuring an Essex education is accessible to all. You’ll feel this Essex Spirit across our campuses.

We’re proud of our students, many of whom are the first in their family to attend university, which is why we’re committed to supporting them; from cost-of-living support including bursaries, to career guidance that lasts a lifetime.

You’ll join our 15,000 strong student-body made up of over 140 nationalities. There’s a reason we’re ranked 15th for international outlook (THE World University Rankings 2023).

We’re top 30 in the Guardian University Guide 2024, but it’s not just our teaching that’s recognised. 90.4% of our research impact is world-leading or internationally excellent (Grade Point Average, REF 2021), with 5 subjects ranked top 10 in the UK for research power.

If you’re ready to join a community with inclusivity at its core, and be taught by world-leading academics; we are Essex, who are you?

Want a peek of life at Essex?

Yes we offer world-class research-led teaching, but life at Essex is also about what’s outside the classroom: the bustling campuses, sports facilities, social events and the strong sense of Essex community. (Let’s not forget campus cat, Pebbles, and the rare and unusual paternoster lift in the library.) If you want a glimpse of what life at Essex is all about, watch this short film.

What makes us different

  • We’re top 30 in the Guardian University Guide 2024. This factors in student satisfaction, career prospects, and staff-student ratio.
  • We’re 15th for international outlook (THE World University Rankings 2023). Our community includes over 140 nationalities and celebrates international research collaboration.
  • Guaranteed on-campus accommodation. All first-years are guaranteed on-campus accommodation. International students are guaranteed on-campus accommodation for their full course. Plus, all bills are included in your rent, so even if the cost of utilities rise during your contract, your rent won’t.
  • Tailor modules around your interests. We have a huge range of optional modules, with most courses offering interdisciplinary module choices. This means you can tailor your degree programme to reflect your interests and focus on the topics most pertinent to your career goals.
  • We’re ranked 56th out of 1,591 institutions for working towards a sustainable future (THE Impact Rankings)

Open days

Course locations

Colchester Campus

University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, CO4 3SQ

East 15 Acting School, Loughton

Hatfields, Loughton, IG10 3RY

Loughton Campus

East 15 Acting School, Hatfields, Rectory Lane, Loughton, IG10 3RY

Southend Campus

10 Elmer Approach, Southend, SS1 1LW

Main Site

Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, CO4 3SQ