MA Social and Political Thought

Postgraduate Entry Requirements:

• Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of  50 to 55% or equivalent.
• English language proficiency is required, and applicants must provide evidence of their English language skills through an approved language test.
  • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
  • TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 90.
  • PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 62 with no individual score below 51.
• Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that entry requirements may vary across different programs and courses. Additionally, meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as the number of available places and competition for certain courses.

The University of Essex offers a range of scholarships and financial support options to assist students in their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize and reward academic excellence, promote diversity and inclusion, and provide assistance to those facing financial challenges.  

1. Academic Excellence Scholarships: The university offers scholarships to outstanding students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements. These scholarships are typically merit-based and provide financial support towards tuition fees or living expenses.
2. International Scholarships: The University of Essex provides scholarships specifically designed for international students. These scholarships aim to attract and support talented students from around the world. Eligibility criteria and award amounts may vary, and they may cover a portion of tuition fees or provide assistance with living expenses.
3. Subject-specific Scholarships: Some departments and schools within the university offer scholarships tailored to specific academic disciplines. These scholarships are often awarded to students with exceptional academic records or those who demonstrate a strong commitment to their field of study.
4. Access and Participation Scholarships: The university is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion. It offers scholarships and financial support to students from underrepresented backgrounds, including those from low-income families or individuals who are the first in their family to attend university.
5. Government-funded Scholarships: In addition to internal scholarships, the University of Essex provides information and guidance on scholarships and funding opportunities offered by external organizations and government agencies. These scholarships may be available to students based on factors such as nationality, field of study, or research interests.
6. Sports Scholarships: The university recognizes the importance of sports and offers scholarships to talented athletes who demonstrate exceptional sporting abilities. These scholarships provide financial support along with access to sports facilities, training programs, and dedicated support services.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application processes may change over time. 

Graduates of the MA program in Social and Political Thought have a range of career prospects in various sectors. 

1. Research and Academia: Graduates can pursue research positions in academic institutions or think tanks, contributing to the advancement of social and political thought. They can also pursue a Ph.D. and pursue an academic career as professors or researchers.

2. Policy Analysis and Development: Graduates can work in policy research organizations or governmental agencies, providing insights into social and political issues and contributing to policy development and implementation.

3. Nonprofit and Advocacy Organizations: Graduates can work in nonprofit organizations, think tanks, or advocacy groups, engaging in research, policy analysis, and advocacy work related to social and political issues.

4. Public Service and Administration: Graduates can pursue careers in the public sector, working in government departments, local authorities, or international organizations. They can contribute to policy-making, governance, and public administration.

5. Journalism and Media: Graduates can work as journalists, writers, or commentators, bringing their understanding of social and political thought to analyze and report on current affairs. They can contribute to public discourse and shape public opinion.

6. Research Consultancy: Graduates can work in research consultancy firms, conducting research and analysis on social and political issues for clients in various sectors such as market research, public opinion polling, or social impact assessment.

7. Cultural and Creative Industries: Graduates can contribute to the cultural and creative industries, working in areas such as arts administration, cultural policy, or cultural research. They can explore the intersections between social and political thought and cultural practices.