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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 2024).

We’re 23rd overall and 5th for 'value-added' in the Guardian University Guide 2025, 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).

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?

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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 23rd in the Guardian University Guide 2025. This factors in student satisfaction, career prospects, and staff-student ratio.
  • We’re 15th for international outlook (THE World University Rankings 2024). 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)

Course locations

Southend Campus

10 Elmer Approach, Southend, SS1 1LW

Main Site

Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, CO4 3SQ

Colchester Campus

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

East 15 Acting School, Loughton

Hatfields, Loughton, IG10 3RY

Chat to students powered by Unibuddy

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  • Laura

    University of Essex
    Modern Languages
    Hi! I am originally from Poland and have lived in England for 4 years. I have always been passionate about languages, especially English and Spanish, and have recently become fond of translation. I plan to do a Masters in Translation at Essex and become a translator or interpreter. Dance is however my biggest passion and I am part of a few competition teams at the University's dance 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.

  • Josephine

    University of Essex
    Tourism, Hospitality and Events Management
    My career plan as a hospitality student involves gaining practical experience through internships, securing an entry-level position in a reputable establishment, specializing in areas like event management, advancing through middle management, and eventually attaining executive leadership or entrepreneurship roles while maintaining a strong commitment to continuous learning, industry impact, and a healthy work-life balance.

  • Juliet

    University of Essex
    Sociology
    Hey everyone! I'm Juliet, a final-year Sociology student. In my free time I love to sing, dance and act. I help run the theatre arts society, planning games nights, themed dress up nights and much more for anyone who loves theatre! I am also greatly involved in student life, in my roles as student ambassador, student representative and peer mentor. I love supporting my peers have the best time at Essex! In my third year I completed a year studying at the University of Windsor in Canada, making amazing friends, adapting to a new education system and of course travelling. I'm a major globetrotter, having visited 17 countries and counting! Ask me anything about my adventures, or if you're curious about student life, clubs, societies or anything university related. I can't wait to chat with you!

  • Emma

    University of Essex
    Literature
    Hi! I am always happy to help you with questions about university life. In my first year I lived on campus in South Courts accommodation, and I am currenting living in student flats off campus for my second year. My interests include going to the gym, listening to music, reading, spending time with my friends and cooking. In my first year I was part of the feminist society and I am deeply passionate about ensuring equality and safety for all. My favourite thing about the university of Essex is the amount of leisure activities, food outlets and shops both on campus and in the town centre near by and I enjoy making use of these, both by myself in-between classes and studying, or to catch up friends.

  • yana

    University of Essex
    Politics and International Relations
    My future plans are to start working in embassy or government. I'm still thinking what I will do after finish university, however, I might spend one year preparing for LSAT to apply to Law School.

  • Dani

    University of Essex
    Criminology
    I am a criminology student from the north of england who is hoping to progress and grow during my last year at Essex. I enjoy spending time with friends and listening to music. I’d say I’m very social and happy to meet new people. In terms of career plans, I haven’t 100% decided on what I’d like to do after graduating.

  • Alice

    University of Essex
    Speech and Language Therapy
    I'm a 3rd year student at the University of Essex. I came straight from Sixth Form, and although it has been a big step, I have really enjoyed it. In my first year, I lived on campus in student accommodation, so if you have any questions about student accommodation feel free to ask! I was part of the Essex Blades Ballet competition team, which was a great experience as I had never competed in dance before, and I now coach the team! Please let me know if you have any questions about studying and life at the University of Essex.

  • Renaldas

    University of Essex
    Psychology
    Hey guys! My name is Renaldas, I'm 23 years old and I'm a postgraduate student of Psychology at the University of Essex. I've graduated with a 1st class degree in BA Business Management and Modern Languages from the University of Essex and, throughout the course of my studies here, I had a chance to go abroad and experience life in Italy. Ask me anything about life, studies and opportunities here at Essex ;)

  • Claudia

    University of Essex
    Occupational Therapy
    Hiya👋🏻, I am Claudia from Hong Kong🇭🇰. I am studying Bsc Occupational Therapy at University of Essex (Year 3)💚. I really enjoy my course with placements which allow me to explore the real OT working setting🤓. I aim to be a qualified Occupational Therapist after my 3 years of study💪🏻. I like listening to music🎶, especially Kpop and Cantopop. I am passionate about reading📚, travelling🛫, and chatting👅. Feel free to ask me questions about uni🏫, my course, or any other... Looking forward to chatting with you! 🥰🤪😆💕

  • Phoebe

    University of Essex
    Biomedical Science
    Hi, my name is Phoebe! I am currently in the final year of my BSc Biomedical Science (NHS Placement Year) degree at the University of Essex. I haven't set my mind on specifically what I'd like to do after my degree, but I know I'd like a job working within the biomedical field. During my first year at uni, I chose to live on campus (Colchester Campus) in South Courts, but during the following years I commuted from home, so I am happy to answer questions about both. The campus accommodates for however you're feeling e.g. from spending some time relaxing at the lakes, quiet study spots and places to grab coffee to SU events, sports teams & societies and even a nightclub! If you have any questions about studying biomedical science, the clearing process, living in uni accommodation or student life in general, send me a message and I'll be happy to help! 😊

  • Kamila

    University of Essex
    Speech and Language Therapy
    Hello :) my name is Kamila, and I am a second year master's student at the University of Essex, studying Speech and language Therapy. I come from Slovakia, however I completed my secondary education here in the UK. During my undergraduate studies in BA English Linguistics, I have been introduced to the module of clinical linguistics, in which I learnt about speech and language therapy. Since then I have been determined to become a paediatric speech and language therapist, as it will allow me to help and advocate for children with speech and language difficulties. My particular interest is in bilingual and multilingual children. I am enjoying my course, as I am able to learn many new skills, and put them into practice during various placements. I believe that the social life at Essex exceeds most universities in the UK. Thanks to its diversity, you will be able to join various societies depending on your hobbies and interests. This year, I am a vice-president of the Speech and Language Therapy Society. As a society we offer a variety of events, including guest speakers, revision sessions, social events, and our favourite annual summer ball! I am also a member of the Essex Blades Dance competition team, and I am really looking forward to the upcoming competition season. If you have any questions about life at Essex, Speech and Language Therapy course, or any of the societies, do not hesitate to reach out! :)
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