Here you’re taught by world-leading academics in a supportive and research-intensive environment. We are ranked Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF 2017) which means we deliver an excellent educational experience. Our trailblazing research also continues to change the world for the better and we are ranked 25th in the UK for research quality (TGUG 2018).
We’re loved by our students too, Essex is top 15 in England for overall student satisfaction (NSS 2017, mainstream universities). This is your chance to become a member of one of the happiest groups of students around.
Source:
University of Essex
University of Essex Students' Union
Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF):
What students say about this university

- All comments
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Everyday expenses
SU shop on campus is reasonably priced and with Tescos nearby and Asdas willing to deliver keeping food costs low is relatively...
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2012, 1st year, Finance
Everyday expenses
SU shop on campus is reasonably priced and with Tescos nearby and Asdas willing to deliver keeping food costs low is relatively easy. Bus passes are offered on discount by the Uni. Books can be very important.
2012, 1st year, Finance
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Everyday expenses
Because everything is on campus my biggest cost in terms of transport is the bus back from tesco after my weekly shop which is...
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2012, 1st year, History By Period
Everyday expenses
Because everything is on campus my biggest cost in terms of transport is the bus back from tesco after my weekly shop which is pretty much the only time I venture out into Colchester, but Tesco is very close by. There are a lot of very tempting venues for food and drink on the campus within which a spectrum of prices exist, from the more costly University run ones where I've taken my parents when they have come to visit through to Happy Days, an vastly popular American style diner which is cheap as chips. In general the Student Union run venues all offer a good value and quality and importantly all profits go straight back the students! My particular fav place on campus is the which has a great number of deals on and hot pastries and paninis! The Union are also one of the best employers in the area for students and they have a yearly recruitment around April. I know many people who also have jobs within the town. In terms of managing costs there are also bank branches on campus which are there to help!
2012, 1st year, History By Period
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Everyday expenses
The campus has a wide range of places to have a snack. The books were at a fair price. Did not pay for the bus pass, since I...
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2012, 1st year, Economics
Everyday expenses
The campus has a wide range of places to have a snack. The books were at a fair price. Did not pay for the bus pass, since I walked with friends most of the time :)
2012, 1st year, Economics
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Everyday expenses
Not as easy, if want to have money left over will need to be on a very basic budget. Rent and living costs take out so much, so...
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2012, 1st year, Theatre & Professional Practice
Everyday expenses
Not as easy, if want to have money left over will need to be on a very basic budget. Rent and living costs take out so much, so hardly any left over for leisure
2012, 1st year, Theatre & Professional Practice
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Everyday expenses
There is a part-time employment scheme offered by the university. Very good for work experience and to get some money.
2012, 2nd year, Politics
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Everyday expenses
the food in the canteen is cheap which is good because you get a big plate of hot food. and there is alot of shops and good...
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2012, 1st year, Clothing/Fashion Design
Everyday expenses
the food in the canteen is cheap which is good because you get a big plate of hot food. and there is alot of shops and good opportunity in the center
2012, 1st year, Clothing/Fashion Design
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How students describe this university
Creative
69%
HIGHDiverse local nightlife
52%
LOWSporty
70%
MEDVaried union activities
73%
HIGHPolitical
67%
HIGHOverall student satisfaction
88%of students are very or quite satisfied with this university
Number of students
13,795students attended last year
Undergraduate / Postgraduate
78%of students are undergrads
Full-time / Part-time
13%of students are part-time
Male / Female
57%of students are female
Young / Mature
16%of students aged over 21
UK / Non-UK
32%of students here are from outside the UK
University images
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Colchester Campus
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Colchester campus
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Student accommodation
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Student Accommodation
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Studying in halls
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Students in lecture theatre
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Student and tutor interaction
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Students in computer suite
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American football team
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Student life
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The campus
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The lakes
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Students working
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Student at work
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The Forum
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Football team
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Campus buildings
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Graduation
League table rankings
Here's where this university ranks in the three main league tables (where available), which are calculated using a combination of stats that they each weight in different ways. They’re a handy guide but don’t offer the full picture – just because a university is top (or bottom) of the league tables doesn’t mean it is (or isn’t) the right choice for you.
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