50 years of Essex

The University of Essex welcomed its first 122 students in 1964. Five decades on, more than 10,000 students from over 130 countries study at three campuses across the county. As we celebrate 50 years of cutting-edge research and teaching excellence, our impact is felt across the world.

Our alumni include two Nobel Prize winners, Mexico’s first astronaut and the Speaker of the House of Commons. If you support our 50th anniversary campaign, who knows what the Essex student you help might go on to achieve?

For 2014, we want to create a £20 million fund to support:

• 50th Anniversary scholarships; and
• our work in human rights, democracy, integrity and justice.

“An education is the greatest weapon for self-discovery, and for enlightenment. Nothing can stop a good mind when it has breathed an air of liberation.”

Ben Okri - Essex alumnus, Booker Prize winner, Honorary Graduate 2002

Join us

In the countdown to 2014, there will be events and activities celebrating the University’s expertise in the social sciences, arts, humanities and science and engineering – from lectures and exhibitions to schools programmes.

Find out more on our 50th Anniversary pages, or email fifty (non-Essex users add @essex.ac.uk)