Overview
Using a thoroughly interdisciplinary approach, this MA provides students with an opportunity for advanced study in contemporary cultural theory, policy and practice.
The MA provides students with knowledge and understanding of a range of theoretical approaches that constitute the contemporary intellectual vocabulary of cultural studies whilst developing awareness of the practices of cultural policy and their application to the culture industry.
Goals
Specialist knowledge and understanding of research methods and cultural policies are supplemented by specific empirical examples. This methodological underpinning offers the means by which students are enabled to make the transition from undergraduate study.
The MA provides the theoretical and analytical training required for those continuing to a research degree or to develop professional skills relevant to working at management level in the fields of cultural policy and industry.
Students’ abilities to engage in critical evaluations of current research and develop the ability to problem-solve in respect to real world projects and case studies are the focus of the programme.
Course structure
The full-time MA in Cultural Studies lasts 12 months and is divided into two semesters, and a summer period, with students taking two modules per semester. A dissertation is then completed over the summer and submitted in September. Part-time students can complete this within 24 or 36 months, depending on their circumstances. Modules available to study on this course may include:
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Mass Media
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Cultural Policy
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Postcolonialism
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Working in the Culture Industry
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Research Methods in Cultural Studies
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Narratives of Conflict and Resolution
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Poststructuralism and Writing
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Visual Culture
Entry requirements
Candidates would normally be expected to hold a single or joint honours degree at 2:1 level or above (or its international equivalent). Those whose first language is not English must achieve an overall score on the British Council IELTS test of at least 7.0 with no less than 6.0 in each element, or a TOEFL score of 600 (250 for computer based tests) with a TWE of at least 4.5, or a TOEFL iBT score of 100 (with no less than 19 in any element). Test results should be no more than two years old.
Assessment
Taught modules are assessed by a 5,000-word assignment and students also submit a 20,000-word dissertation. There are no examinations.