COURSE CURRICULUM

The MA Public Opinion and Political Behaviour at Essex is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of how public opinion shapes political outcomes and how political behaviour varies across individuals and groups. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical research training, equipping students with the skills to analyse and interpret political data. Core modules cover the theories and issues of public opinion and political behaviour, exploring the factors that influence political engagement, including social background, economic circumstances, personality, and broader structural influences. Students also gain hands-on experience with research methods, including introduction to quantitative methods and data analysis, enabling them to design, conduct, and evaluate empirical research. Research design is a compulsory component, ensuring students develop the skills needed to structure rigorous and meaningful investigations. Optional modules allow students to tailor their studies to specific interests within government and political analysis, providing flexibility to explore comparative politics, policy studies, or other relevant areas. The program culminates with dissertation preparation and a dissertation project, offering the opportunity to undertake independent research under academic supervision. By combining theory, methodology, and applied skills, this MA prepares graduates for careers in political research, public policy, consultancy, and academic pathways, fostering a thorough understanding of the interaction between the public and political elites.