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University of Essex

Colchester

  • Location: City, Rural

About us

Founded in 1964, the University of Essex has spent over 60 years encouraging boldness, bravery and ensuring our high-quality education is accessible to all. You’ll feel our Essex Spirit across our three campuses.

We’re proud of our students, many of whom are the first in their families 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 student body made up of over 140 nationalities. There’s a reason we’re ranked 14th for international outlook (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026).

We’re also a research-intensive university, and most recently, 90.4% of our research impact was rated as being world-leading or internationally excellent (Grade Point Average, REF 2021).

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Want to see student life at Essex?

Although we offer world-class, research-led teaching, life at Essex is also about what’s outside the classroom: our bustling campuses, sports facilities, social events and the strong sense of Essex community. If you want a glimpse of what life at Essex is all about, watch this short film.

What makes us different

  • We’re ranked 12th in the UK (Guardian University Guide 2026). This national ranking takes into account student satisfaction, career prospects, student-staff ratio and more.
  • We’re 1st in the East of England for student positivity (National Student Survey 2025, Broad Discipline Universities). Our students really do love living and learning at Essex.
  • Guaranteed on-campus accommodation. All students are guaranteed on-campus accommodation for the duration of their studies. Plus, all bills are included in your rent, so even if the cost of utilities rises during your contract, your rent won’t. Students living at our Colchester Campus will also receive a free gym and sports membership.
  • Tailor modules around your interests. We have a wide range of optional modules, with most courses offering interdisciplinary choices. This means you can often customise your degree course to reflect your interests and focus on the topics most in line with your career goals.

Open days

Course locations

Colchester Campus

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

Southend Campus

10 Elmer Approach, Southend, SS1 1LW

East 15 Acting School, Loughton

Hatfields, Loughton, IG10 3RY

Main Site

Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, CO4 3SQ

Chat to students

powered by UnibuddyUCAS Media Service

  • Grace

    University of Essex
    BA Criminology and American Studies
    Hi hi!!, I am a second-year student currently studying Criminology and American Studies with hopes of working either as a criminology teacher or working with juveniles to prevent reoffending. I did Re, History, Psychology and an EPQ at alvls and went through clearing because I thought Essex would be a better school for me. I'm happy to answer any questions!!!

  • Ann

    University of Essex
    Biomedical Science
    Hi, I’m Ann, a second-year biomedical student with a keen interest in pathology. I’m currently looking for a placement in the field and plan to continue my studies in the future. I’m happy to share my experiences and help fellow students navigate university life, from academics to placements and beyond!

  • Alice

    University of Essex
    Marine Biology
    Hello! 👋 I'm Alice, a student at the University of Essex currently pursuing an integrated masters in Tropical Marine Biology. I'm thrilled to be a part of the Unibuddy community as a Student Ambassador, where I can share my unique journey and experiences with you. Beyond the academic realm, I have a deep passion for invertebrates in the sea, including jellyfish and other odd looking creatures! Extra-curricular activities are where I find balance between academia and fun. Squash, running and scuba diving are sports that I truly enjoy. The thrill of a competitive squash match or the serenity of a long run along the coastline are experiences I cherish. Future Career Plan: As I progress through my academic journey, my ultimate goal is to contribute significantly to the field of marine biology. I aspire to earn a Ph.D., conducting ground-breaking research that sheds light on the complexities of gelatinous animals and their role in marine ecosystems. My vision extends beyond the laboratory; I aim to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and public understanding, advocating for the conservation of our oceans. Join me on this exciting adventure through academia and exploration of the deep sea on Unibuddy! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about marine biology, integrated masters programs, or if you just want to chat about our shared interests. Let's make the most of our academic journey together! 🌊🔬🏃‍♂️

  • Asiya

    University of Essex
    Childhood Studies
    Growing up, I was privileged enough to only be surrounded by a lot of children within my family but also witness what children go through in the society, the mischief that they can get into and the social rejection that they might face. This made me develop an interest in children’s rights and their welfare. I have learnt more about social justice and child protection while studying at the university of Essex. My career goal is to work in the field of community development especially for the protection of children and creating safe environments for them as well as addressing the causes of criminal activities from a young age. I love reading and this has always been a way of keeping me informed as well as how I can be motivated to find new ways to solve different issues. I am interesting, I promise 😁.

  • Fleur

    University of Essex
    European Studies
    Hello there, nice to meet you! My name is Fleur and I am studying European Studies at Essex. I love my course because it allows me to study a lot of different topics, such as history, politics, sustainability, philosophy, and even recently a bit of economics! While I'm not completely certain what I would like to do after leaving University, I know that I would like to contribute to making the world a better place, whether that be through working in social policy, a non-profit organisation, or an area contributing to reducing the climate crisis. Outside of university I am very interested in arts and crafts, and I love to curl up on a rainy day and crochet while listening to music, which is another hobby of mine. I love all things to do with music, playing musical instruments and listening to all different genres! I'm not incredibly sporty but I do enjoy going on walks in my beautiful hometown, along with swimming in pools and rivers (although the fish do scare me a bit). Archery is another interest of mine, and I've really enjoyed getting involved at the University Club!

  • Craig

    University of Essex
    Sports Therapy
    I enjoy stepping out of my comfort zone with adrenaline-inducing activities and going with the flow. I aim to work as a physiotherapist/sports therapist for a professional sports team and travel the world.

  • Hannah

    University of Essex
    Engineering
    Hi! I’m Hannah, a second-year student studying Neural Engineering with Psychology. My degree isn’t one that’s very well known but I love it. It combines Psychology, Engineering and Computer Science. In my next couple of years, I will cover areas like working with prosthetics, AI and brain computer-interfaces. If that sounds like your sort of thing, then definitely go check it out and feel free to ask me any questions about my experience so far. I mostly work in the CSEE department so I can answer questions about other courses as well. Outside of university I like to listen to music and I’m trying to get back into the gym. Ask me any questions you have, big or small, and I will try my best to answer them.

  • Charlotte

    University of Essex
    BA Politics with Human Rights
    Hi, I am Charlotte, a third year politics with human rights student. I am also a member of the Student Union trustee board and a student representative alongside my studies, so I am very immersed in the student life here and more than happy to answer any and all questions you may have. I love to go out and I’m always attending the nightlife events on campus (maybe a little too much)! I am currently treasurer for the sustainable students society so if there’s anything you would be interested to know about societies, I can always let you know. I’m very friendly and bubbly so don’t be afraid to ask anything, no questions are silly.

  • ELEESYA SOFEA

    University of Essex
    Actuarial Science
    Hi! I'm Eleesya Sofea I'm a 2nd year Actuarial Science student at the University of Essex and an international student from Malaysia. I have a strong passion for mathematics, statistics, and problem-solving, and I aspire to become an actuary in the future, using my analytical skills to assess risks and make informed financial decisions. Beyond academics, I'm actively involved in social events and love connecting with new people. I also sometimes volunteer with the university’s V-Team, which allows me to give back to the community and develop new skills. Being a Student Ambassador gives me the opportunity to share my university experience, support prospective students, and help them navigate student life. If you have any questions about studying at Essex, career aspirations, or university life in general, feel free to reach out—I’d love to help!

  • Eniola

    University of Essex
    Business and Management
    Hi, my name is Eniola. I was born in London but I am Nigerian by blood, and I am currently studying Business Management with French! French is a language I have been passionate about since I was young, and I chose to study this course after a trip to Marseille, in which I fell in love with the French culture: the music, the food, the vibes. From there, I applied to Essex through clearing as I was coming to the end of my gap year. I wanted to study a degree that combined the two things that I loved, marketing and French, and Essex was one of the very few universities that offered this opportunity. Doing a combined degree has opened a lot of doors for me, for example, in my first year I became a Social Media Ambassador for the university, and I also was given the chance to do a Marketing internship in Paris at the end of my first year. This was very rewarding as being able to do marketing not only for the university but in my favourite city as well was a dream come true.

  • Amaia

    University of Essex
    Physiotherapy
    Heyy👋🏻, I am Amaia from the UK. I am studying MSc Physiotherapy at University of Essex (Year 2). I enjoy learning about anatomy, biomechanics, nutrition and rehabilitation. I am passionate about Sport and Exercise Science, Nutrition, Physiotherapy, and Rehabilitation. Feel free to ask me questions about uni, my course, or any other queries you may have. Looking forward to chatting with you :))

  • Anastasiia

    University of Essex
    Art History
    I am a 28 y.o. PhD student with a background in Museum Studies (St Petersburg State University of Culture) and Curatorial Research (St Petersburg State University). My PhD is sponsored by Essex's Human Rights Centre. I'm here to help you start your academic journey with the UoE. Ask me anything about PGR studies at Essex (especially PHAIS), financial support for international students, accommodation, life on and off campus (especially cultural events, e.g. museums, theatres, etc.) and what it's like to live in the UK/Colchester (e.g. what's there for people from my (and probably yours!) part of the globe, such as where we celebrate Orthodox Easter!). Fun facts about me: travelled to 30+ countries; have a cute little chinchilla named Pyshka 🍩; learnt that all stereotypes about British weather are true yet still enjoy it here.
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