University of Essex

The University of Essex is a top-ranking research intensive institution, and is the UK’s most internationally diverse campus university with students and staff from over 130 different countries. We employ over 2,000 people and pride ourselves on accessibility to students with a range of different qualifications and backgrounds.

Our three campuses, in Colchester, Southend and Loughton, provide choice, flexibility and support to students in a safe and friendly environment, and we are committed to being environmentally responsible. The Colchester Campus, our largest and original site, is set in 200 acres of parkland. It incorporates teaching buildings, shops, banks, a gallery and theatre, bars and cafes, and sufficient student accommodation to house over half of its student population. East 15 Acting School, our second campus, is based in Loughton which is just five minutes from London Underground’s Central Line. The University’s newest campus, on Southend’s bustling High Street, opened in 2007.

The University was founded in 1964 when it opened its doors to a cohort of just 122 students. Since then, we have grown in both reputation and size. There are now more than 8,000 students studying in 18 academic departments. The University is worth over £200 million to the local economy.

In 2008 Essex was ranked 25th in The Good University Guide and we have a long tradition of admitting students, including mature students and those from non-traditional backgrounds, who will make good use of the opportunity to study for a degree. Most recently, we were ranked fifth in a national league table rating the quality of life at UK universities. The league table – which places Essex above Oxford and Cambridge – incorporated factors including house prices, crime rates, traffic congestion and schools in the area, as well as average salaries and the proportion of staff on permanent contracts.

We are committed to providing an excellent working environment for all employees. There are a number of policies, services and terms and conditions of employment for staff which are designed to help maintain and support their general well-being and assist work life balance. These include a generous holiday entitlement, final salary pension scheme, competitive salaries, childcare facilities/vouchers and opportunities for training and development. Further information can be found on our website.