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Programme summary for MA Cultural Studies

The MA Cultural Studies is an innovative programme led by , who is editor of one of the leading journals in the field.

It particularly appeals to students with an interest in contemporary radical thought, and its implications for cultural theory and political analysis.

The atmosphere of the programme is informal and relaxed but intellectually intense, and students are encouraged to develop their own interests and research agendas with the support of extremely knowledgeable and expert staff. It is characterised by a focus on the latest developments in cultural theory and relevant branches of political philosophy, with a particular emphasis on their implications for Cultural Studies' classical concern with the analysis of contemporary power relations.

The core module for the programme is Culture, Power and Politics, which examines in depth some of the key theories shaping the field today, and is followed in semester B by the module Contemporary Cultural Theory, which examines the latest developments in the field according to the specifc research interests of students.

Potential applicants are encouraged to contact the programme leader for any further information or to arrange an informal meeting.

About the programme

This programme offers an advanced grounding in the core themes of cultural studies and an opportunity to explore the full range of cutting-edge debates in the field. The Culture, power and politics module examines the changing nature of our complex societies and the ways in which these changes have been understood by key thinkers from Marx and Freud to Hardt and Negri, while also providing an introduction to the themes and approaches of the options.

Programme structure

All students taking the MA Cultural Studies programme will do the foundation module, two options selected from the list of those on offer (one in each semester), the research methods and approaches module and the dissertation module. Dissertations are submitted at the end of September. An MA in Cultural Studies will be awarded on successful completion of the whole programme (180 credits). A Postgraduate Diploma in Cultural Studies will be awarded to students who successfully complete the foundation module, two options and either the research methods module or a third option (120 credits). A Postgraduate Certificate will be awarded on successful completion of the foundation module and one option (60 credits). Full-time students will normally attend for two days a week during semesters, part-time students for one day.

Career opportunities

This programme will prepare you for employment in the cultural industries, teaching and some social agencies. It will also prepare you for higher-level academic work.

Support

All students have a personal MA advisor and are invited to all School research seminars. University facilities include a Graduate Centre; a Learning Resource Centre (LRC) with a excellent access to international library services, and a wide range of books, journals, videos, PC stations, video viewing sites and photocopying facilities etc. The Multimedia Production Centre (MPC) has up-to-date broadcast standard digital production facilities in video, audio, photography and multimedia and is available to students doing media practice.

Admission

The admission of applicants is at the discretion of the University. Applicants will normally have a first or upper second class degree or equivalent in a humanities or social science subject, or comparable professional or research experience. Applications from overseas and EU students are welcome. Students whose first language is not English should normally have achieved a score of 7.0 in IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or equivalent. Eligibility for students without a degree-equivalent qualification will be assessed on the basis of short essay and statement. Where possible applicants will be interviewed by a member of the programme team in order to assess whether they are able to achieve the standard of work required for the award. Overseas students will be asked to supply evidence of written work of a standard sufficient for successful postgraduate study in lieu of an interview.

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 (MA)

View full specification Cultural Studies (MA)

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Tuition Fees - 2013/14

Home/EU Fees

  • Module fee: £1,100
  • Full time fee: £6,600 per yr

International Fees

  • Module fee: £1,770
  • Full time fee: £10,620 per yr

Fees based on 30 credit modules (unless otherwise indicated) For further information regarding postgraduate fees please refer to www.uel.ac.uk/fees/

Highlights


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