Programme summary for BA Cultural Studies
In the 21st Century, ‘culture’ is everything. It’s the way we’re brought up, the way we dress, the people we love, the films we watch, the jobs we take, the words we use, the way we vote, the websites we surf. Power relations shape every aspect of cultural experience: Cultural Studies tries to understand these power relations and how they can be changed.
"The Cultural Studies degree at the University of East London has a well-deserved reputation for excellent teaching, committed staff and imaginative students and the department is internationally recognised for its important and innovative work."
Stuart Hall, Emeritus Professor of Sociology at the Open University and author of many classic works in cultural studies, media studies and sociology.
“Thank God I was able to do Cultural Studies at college - here was a subject with va-va voom. Not only were you encouraged to think 'outside the box' but to examine the box itself. It gives you the critical edge, that in these days of high anxiety, is in demand as never before.”
Suzanne Moore, author of Head over Heels and regular contributor to The Guardian, Independent, Mail on Sunday and New Statesman.
For Further Information Contact:
Debra Benita Shaw, Programme Leader for Cultural Studies
School of Humanities and Social Sciences
University of East London
4-6 University Way
London E16 2RD
Tel. 020 8223 7474
Email: d.shaw@uel.ac.uk
About the programme
Cultural Studies is about power: who has it, who doesn’t, and the forms it takes in a complex society. From the power of the media to shape our sense of self to the power of voters to alter government policy, and from the power of individuals to re-invent themselves through art and fashion to the power of corporations, we are concerned with the question of who runs things and how they do it. We look at the many ways in which the world is changing, why it is changing, and in whose interests it is changing.
2-subject degrees
You can combine this programme with a range of other subjects as part of a 2-subject degree. Popular combinations include Cultural Studies and International Development, and Cultural Studies and Media Studies.
Programme structure
3 Years full-time or may be studied for up to 6 years part-time towards the completion of BA (Hons). Upon a foundation of relevant media theory, history and practice, students of Media Studies at UEL choose from a wide prospectus of subjects and approaches, including media production and work-based learning. In level 3, Media Studies students will complete an independent research project.
Career opportunities
Career opportunities exist in the arts, culture industries and media, including PR, journalism, research, production, etc. Graduates have also gone on to work in the caring professions, including teaching, as well as in local and national government and the legal and accountancy professions.
Support
As a small, enthusiastic team, we develop a strong relationship with our students. We have an excellent personal tutor system, and offer specialised support with assessments and any issues you may have through both the personal tutor system and in the context of each specific module. The School's Student Support Office provides a full-time drop-in service for students in matters of programme management, administration and progression.
Admission
The minimum requirements for entry for Level 1 entry is 240 UCAS tariff points from: A/AS level (Including 2 A2 passes), GNVQ, AVCE, Scottish Highers, International Baccalaureate. European Baccalaureate, BTEC / SCOTEC Diploma, Relevant Access Course or successful completion of the Level 0. Other qualifications, including overseas, may be considered.
Applicants who do not fulfil the admission requirements for Level one may be considered for entry into Level 0. Applicants should have 100 UCAS tariff points from GCE A2 or equivalent.
We also welcome applicants from mature students who do not have formal qualifications but may have relevant experience. Students applying to this programme will be expected to demonstrate a specific interest in this area of study and should have a commitment to engaging with the subject. Applicants may be invited for interview.
Overseas Qualifications
The number of overseas qualifications which are accepted for entry are too numerous to list, but you can get advice from the British Council or our admissions unit on 020 8223 2835. You must be able to understand and express yourself in both written and spoken English and some evidence e.g. For level 1 entry a TOEFL score of 550 or an IELTS score of 6.0 (no skill level below 5) and for Level 0 entry an IELTS score of 5.5 (no skill level below 5) would be required.
Key facts
You can start many programmes in either September or February and applications are simple to make. Click below to:
Apply online Cultural Studies (BA)
