Cultural Studies MA

Program Overview

---

The Cultural Studies MA at the University of Worcester equips students with critical thinking and analytical skills to explore cultural values, practices, and representations. This interdisciplinary program offers a range of modules, including research approaches, professional development, and a dissertation, preparing graduates for careers in media, education, arts administration, and more. The program's unique "Professional Development" module provides practical work experience tailored to individual career aspirations.

Program Outline

---

Cultural Studies MA at the University of Worcester: A Comprehensive Overview

---

Degree Overview:

---

Overview:

The Cultural Studies MA program at the University of Worcester equips you with the knowledge and skills to critically analyze and explore the complexities of cultural values, practices, and representations. This interdisciplinary program allows you to specialize in your chosen area of interest within the vibrant field of Cultural Studies.

---

Objectives:

• Develop a sophisticated understanding of the evolving nature of cultural values, practices, and representations.
• Hone your critical thinking and analytical skills to evaluate your own cultural background, norms, and perspectives.
• Analyze the relationship between power, culture, and representation.
• Examine the politics and cultural manifestations of resistance, including responses to climate change, existential threats, financial crises, and political conflicts.
• Refine your research skills to postgraduate standards, preparing you for further academic research or doctoral studies.
• Gain practical work experience through the program's "Professional Development" module, allowing you to apply your academic skills in real-world settings.
• Join the active research community of the School of Humanities and gain valuable experience presenting your work at postgraduate conferences.

---

Description:

This program welcomes students with backgrounds in Media, Film, Sociology, Politics, or History. It delves into a diverse range of themes, from sustainability rituals and black identity politics to the future of artificial intelligence and geopolitical propaganda.

---

Outline:

---

Content:

• Research Approaches in the Humanities and Arts
• Professional Development
• Digital Editing Project
• The New Humanities
• Cultures of Change
• Dissertation

---

Structure:

• Taught program with a final dissertation
• Full-time (13 months) or part-time (23 months) options available
• 30 hours of independent study per week for full-time students, proportionally less for part-time students
• Modules taught in semesters with a combination of seminars, workshops, and individual tuition
• Dissertation completed in a dedicated 'third semester' with support from individual advisors

---

Modules:

• Research Approaches in the Humanities and Arts: Introduces advanced concepts and research methods in the Humanities.
• Professional Development: Apply your academic skills to a practical work project, either at the university or with an external organization.
• Digital Editing Project: Learn Digital Humanities methodologies through database research and recovery and editing of historical cultural texts.
• The New Humanities: Interdisciplinary exploration of environmental, medical, and scientific themes in relation to cultural scholarship.
• Cultures of Change: Examines the evolution of cultural values and practices through the lens of food, fashion, music, and digital futures.
• Dissertation: Conduct independent research and write an extensive dissertation on a chosen topic within Cultural Studies, supported by an expert advisor.

---

Teaching:

---

Teaching Methods:

• Seminars: Engage in interactive discussions and analysis of key concepts.
• Workshops: Develop practical skills and apply theoretical knowledge in collaborative settings.
• Individual Tuition: Receive personalized guidance and feedback from academic experts.
• Online Interaction: Collaborate and communicate with peers and instructors through online platforms.

---

Faculty:

• University of Worcester's School of Humanities comprises a team of experienced and research-active academics specializing in various fields, including English Literature, Media and Film, Sociology, and History.
• Many faculty members have international reputations in their respective areas.
• Over 90% of the School's staff hold teaching qualifications or full Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy.

---

Unique Approaches:

• The "Professional Development" module allows students to tailor their experiences to their long-term career aspirations, offering the opportunity to work on creative industries networking events or develop academic conferences.
• The Dissertation offers complete freedom in choosing a research topic, allowing students to focus on their specific areas of interest within Cultural Studies.

---

Assessment:

---

Assessment Methods:

• Coursework assignments: Essays, portfolios, presentations, and projects.
• Major Dissertation project.
• No formal timed examinations.

---

Assessment Criteria:

• Depth of understanding and critical analysis of cultural concepts.
• Quality of research and evidence-based arguments.
• Clarity and coherence of writing and presentation.
• Originality and independent thought.
• Ability to meet deadlines and adhere to academic standards.

---

Careers:

---

Potential Career Paths:

• Media industries: Editing, production, copywriting, journalism (print, broadcast, digital)
• Education: Teaching at compulsory and post-compulsory levels
• Arts administration
• Charitable and voluntary sectors
• Civil Service
• Human Resources
• Retail management
• Doctoral research and academic careers

---

Opportunities:

• The program equips graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in diverse career paths.
• The "Professional Development" module offers valuable work experience tailored to individual career aspirations.
• The interdisciplinary nature of the program opens doors to varied industries and sectors.

---

Other:

• The program features a thriving research culture, providing opportunities for students to engage in research projects and present their work at conferences.
• Students have access to excellent facilities, including The Hive university and public library, as well as digital learning resources and module-specific Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs).
• The University of Worcester offers a supportive environment for postgraduate students, with dedicated academic advisors and student support services.
• The program welcomes applications from individuals with diverse academic backgrounds and interests.
By combining these sections, you can create a comprehensive overview of the Cultural Studies MA program at the University of Worcester.

---

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

---

Full-time tuition fees

UK and EU students The standard tuition fee for full-time home and EU students enrolling on MA/MSc/MBA/MRes courses in the academic year 2024/25 is £9,000 per year. International students The standard tuition fee for full-time international students enrolling on MA/MSc/MBA/MRes courses in the academic year 2024/25 is £17,400 per year.

---

Part-time tuition fees

UK and EU students The standard tuition fees for part-time home and EU students enrolling on MA/MSc/MBA/MRes/PGCert/PGDip courses in the academic year 2024/25 are £750 per 15-credit module, £1,500 per 30-credit module, £2,250 per 45-credit module, and £3,000 per 60 credit module. International students The standard tuition fees for part-time international students enrolling on MA/MSc/MBA/MRes courses in the academic year 2024/25 are £1,450 per 15-credit module, £2,900 per 30-credit module, £4,350 per 45-credit module, and £5,800 per 60 credit module.

---

Additional costs

Every course has day-to-day costs for basic books, stationery, printing and photocopying. The amounts vary between courses. If your course offers a placement opportunity, you may need to pay for an Enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check.

---

Postgraduate loans

The Government will provide a loan of up to £11,836 if your course starts on or after 1 August 2022 per eligible student for postgraduate Masters study. It will be at your own discretion whether the loan is used towards fees, maintenance or other costs.