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The MA Global and Comparative Politics at the University of Essex is ideal for students who want to understand how politics works across different countries and why political systems, institutions and citizens behave so differently around the world. The programme helps you make sense of global political challenges — from democracy and governance to conflict and international cooperation — while building strong analytical and research skills valued across public, private and international sectors.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1 (Full-time)
From the very start, you’ll dive into the foundations of comparative politics, examining how political leaders, voters, parties, pressure groups and institutions operate across different political systems. Core teaching introduces you to key theories and debates in global and comparative politics, helping you develop the tools to analyse real political behaviour rather than just memorising facts.
As you progress, you’ll shape the degree around your interests by choosing from modules such as Democracies in Europe, International Relations, Conflict Resolution and Global Environmental Issues, allowing you to explore topics like security, governance, international cooperation and global challenges in greater depth.
Focus areas: global political systems, comparative politics, democracy and governance, international relations, conflict and cooperation
Learning outcomes: strong comparative analysis skills, critical political thinking, independent research ability, clear written and verbal communication
Professional alignment (accreditation): While not professionally accredited, the programme develops transferable skills highly valued in policy, research, diplomacy and international organisations
Reputation (employability rankings): The University of Essex is internationally recognised for political science and government research, with a strong reputation in social sciences
At Essex, learning global and comparative politics is not limited to lectures — it is about actively engaging with real political questions and developing the confidence to analyse them independently. Throughout the programme, you will take part in research-led teaching, discussions and assessments that reflect how political analysts, researchers and policy professionals work in practice. This combination of theory, debate and research helps you graduate with skills that go beyond the classroom:
Small-group seminars and discussion-based teaching, where you actively debate political ideas and compare global case studies
Research-focused assessments, giving you hands-on experience analysing political systems, institutions and behaviour
Strong access to academic research resources through the University of Essex Library, including journals, political databases and international datasets
Exposure to contemporary global issues, integrated into teaching through current case studies in democracy, conflict, and international politics
Guest talks, events and academic workshops hosted by the Department of Government, connecting theory to real-world political debates
Supportive academic environment, where teaching is closely linked to the department’s internationally recognised research expertise
Graduates of the MA Global and Comparative Politics leave Essex with a strong global perspective and the ability to think critically about political issues across countries and regions. These skills are highly attractive to employers who value analytical thinking, research capability and an understanding of international political environments. Common career paths include Policy Advisor, Political Researcher, International Relations Analyst, Public Affairs Consultant, and related roles in global organisations and institutions:
Dedicated Careers and Employability Service, offering one-to-one career guidance, CV and application support, and interview preparation
Strong graduate outcomes, with alumni progressing into government bodies, international organisations, think tanks, non-governmental organisations and research roles
Transferable skills development, including research design, data interpretation, analytical writing and policy-relevant communication
Global reputation of the Essex Department of Government, which strengthens employability in international and policy-focused careers
Access to professional networks and academic events, helping students build long-term career connections
Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, many students choose to continue into PhD or doctoral research in Politics, International Relations or Comparative Politics, either at Essex or other leading universities. The programme’s strong theoretical foundation and research focus also supports progression into specialised postgraduate or research-led academic careers.
Should have high 2.2 in Political Science, International Relations, Business - ( finance related), Economics or Statistics, six months relevant work experience such as working with a NGO IELTS 6.5 overall with a minimum score of 5.5 in all components.TOEFL (iBT) with 76 overall, with a minimum of 17 in listening, 18 in reading, 20 in speaking and 17 in writingPersonal statement no more than 500 words is requiredChina: A four year degree (or equivalent), with an overall grade of between 70-75%, OR CGPA 2.2-2.7/4 depending on the degree institution.India: A degree with an overall grade of between 50 to 55% OR 5.3 to 5.8/10 OR 2.12 to 2.32/4 depending on the degree institution .USA: A degree with an overall grade of 2.5.Charity officerDiplomatic Services operational officerForensic accountant
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University of Essex
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