MRes Political Economy

The MRes Political Economy is a two-year course designed to provide additional training in research design and research methods compared to an MSc or MA. Students study modules on political economics and research methods across their two years, while developing a 35,000-word dissertation.

Overview

Based in the Department of Government, this course covers all aspects of modern political economy, including micro and macroeconomics, the quality of governance, monetary policy choices, mathematical methods, environmental policies, and market failure. The course is run jointly between the Department of Economics and the Department of Government, offering excellent preparation for PhD study.

Entry Requirements

• A 2.2 degree or international equivalent in one of the following subjects: American Studies, Economics, Finance, International Relations, International Studies, Political Science, Political Studies, Statistics, or United States Politics.
• Alternatively, a 2.2 degree in any subject which includes study in two relevant modules, such as Comparative Political Systems, Constitutional Democracy, Contemporary World Affairs, Current Affairs, Democratic Theory, Econometrics, European Integration/Dynamics of Integration, Foreign Policy/Comparative Foreign Policy, Game Theory, Governmental Processes/Systems, Human Rights, Ideology and Political Analysis, International Economic Law, International Economic Relations, International Trade/Business Law, International Law, International Public Relations, International Security, International Trade/Business Law, Law of Armed Conflict, Micro/Macro Economics, Peace Studies, Philosophy (MA Political Theory only), Political Conflict, Political Decision Making, Political Economy, Political Sociology, Political Studies, Public Administration, Public International Law, Public Policy Analysis, Quantitative Reasoning, Security Studies, Strategic Studies, Terrorism, Theories of Development.
• Applicants with a degree in an unrelated subject and at least 5 years of work experience may also be considered.
• Applicants with a lower class degree where relevant modules have been studied with marks of 2:2 or above may be considered.
• Applicants who have achieved a first-class degree in any subject may also be considered.

International and EU Entry Requirements

The University accepts a wide range of qualifications from applicants studying in the EU and other countries. International students should contact the University for more information on qualifications accepted.

English Language Requirements

If English is not the first language, students require IELTS 6.5 overall with a minimum score of 5.5 in all components.

Structure

The course structure includes:

• Comparative Political Economy
• International Political Economy
• Research Design
• Quantitative Methods
• Advanced Quantitative Methods
• Mathematical Methods
• Microeconomics
• Optional modules from the Department of Government or Economics
• A 35,000-word dissertation

Teaching

Courses are designed to provide an advanced understanding of either the politics of a geographical area or an aspect of the discipline. Students learn through discussion, problem-solving, lab sessions, and national conferences.

Assessment

Coursework comes in the form of essays, simulations, presentations, and in-class tests. The dissertation is guided by an appropriate supervisor.

Fees and Funding

• Home/UK fee: ｣11,025 per year
• International fee: ｣23,875 per year
• Fees will increase for each academic year of study.
• Scholarships, bursaries, or discounts may be available to help with the cost of the course.

What's Next

After completing the MRes Political Economy, students are well-prepared for a research degree, such as a PhD. Many graduates go on to work in high-profile organizations, including the Civil Service, local government, the World Bank, the United Nations, NATO, and YouGov. Others pursue careers in academia, research, or data science.

University of Essex

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Overview:

The University of Essex is a public research university located in Colchester, Essex, England. It is known for its strong academic reputation, particularly in the fields of social sciences, humanities, and law. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, as well as short courses and apprenticeships.

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Services Offered:

The university provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Accommodation:

Guaranteed, affordable accommodation for new undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Student Support:

A variety of support services are available to students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health support.

Careers and Employability:

The university offers resources and programs to help students develop their career skills and find employment.

Essex Sport:

A wide range of sports facilities and activities are available to students, including fitness classes, performance sport, and scholarships.

Faith:

The university provides support for students of all faiths.

Cost of Living Support:

The university offers financial assistance to students who are struggling with the cost of living.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Students at the University of Essex can expect a vibrant and diverse campus experience. The university has a strong sense of community, with a variety of clubs, societies, and events to get involved in. The university also has a beautiful campus, with green spaces, lakes, and modern facilities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Academic Reputation:

The university is consistently ranked highly in national and international rankings.

Excellent Research:

The university is a leading research institution, with a strong focus on innovation and impact.

Diverse and Inclusive Community:

The university is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students.

Excellent Student Support:

The university provides a wide range of support services to help students succeed.

Beautiful Campus:

The university has a beautiful campus, with green spaces, lakes, and modern facilities.

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Academic Programs:

The University of Essex offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Programs:

The university offers a wide range of undergraduate programs in the arts, humanities, social sciences, law, business, and science.

Postgraduate Programs:

The university offers a wide range of postgraduate programs, including master's degrees, PhDs, and professional qualifications.

Short Courses and CPD:

The university offers a variety of short courses and continuing professional development programs.

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Other:

The university has three campuses: Colchester, Southend, and Loughton. The Colchester campus is the main campus and is located in a beautiful parkland setting. The Southend campus is located on the seafront and offers a more urban experience. The Loughton campus is home to the university's drama school, East 15 Acting School.

The university is also home to a number of research centers and institutes, including the Centre for Research in Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Management (REIMI) and the Human Rights Centre.