Program Overview
This program explores objects, images, and spaces from the 18th to 21st centuries, examining their construction and circulation within global cultures. Students develop theoretical frameworks, articulation skills, and research abilities through core modules, option modules, and individualized dissertation supervision. Graduates pursue careers in museums, academia, and research, leveraging transferable skills in historical design and material culture.
Program Outline
Understand how things are built and circulated within different global cultures, engaging with discussions on subjects like gender and identity, past and present, sustainable design and the Anthropocene alongside the decolonization and development of historical design.
Overall objectives and goals of the program:
- Understanding and utilizing contemporary theoretical frameworks within the interpretation of material worlds and myriad representations.
- Cultivating students' skills of expression and articulation via seminar work, close reading, and wide-ranging discussions.
- Supporting students in pursuing their own research interests through individualized supervision for their 18,000 to 20,000 word dissertations based on archival investigations or ethnographic studies.
Outline:
Content, curriculum, and composition of the courses:
Structure and framework of instruction:
- Two core modules constituting 20 credits each, Exploring Objects and Mediating Objects, equip students to grasp and work with current theoretical frameworks related to materiality and visual interpretations.
- Developing skills of expression and articulation through a combination of seminar work, close readings, and extensive discussions.
- Research Methods module providing 20 credits and leading to your dissertation (18,000-20,000 words), an intensive piece of scholarship rooted in either archival research or ethnographic investigation.
- A further three option modules totaling 30 credits can be chosen, focusing on specific elements like textiles, graphics, exhibitions, or broader studies in history, politics, and philosophy.
Assessment
Evaluations and how your progress would be measured:
- Dissertations assessed by two tutors with expertise relevant to your research topic.
- Essays and coursework graded and provided feedback by the respective module instructors.
Teaching
How you receive instruction, faculty involved, and distinctive approaches to learning:
- Small class sessions fostering collaborative learning and active participation.
- Teaching performed by leading academics in the field, often publishing extensively on the subject of historical design and material culture.
- Close and individualized supervision from relevant experts for your dissertation project.
Careers
Potential career paths and prospects following graduation:
Several graduates have achieved prominent roles in organizations such as the Victoria & Albert Museum, Brighton & Hove Museums, and the Fashion and Textile Museum.
- This program has been highly regarded internationally and boasts a well-established academic staff, continually shaping the field of study.
- As part of the dynamic research community represented by the Centre for Design History, this course provides learning opportunities from experts specializing in fashion and dress history, photography, historical material, and decolonial design fields.
UK (full-time) 8,400 GBP International (full-time) 15,900 GBP
University of Brighton
Overview:
The University of Brighton is a public university located in Brighton, England. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across various subject areas. The university is known for its strong focus on employability and its commitment to providing a supportive learning environment.
Services Offered:
The university provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Accommodation:
University halls and homes are available for students, along with assistance in finding private accommodation.Financial Support:
Fees and financial support information is provided, including the Brighton Boost program offering extra financial help.Student Support:
Advice and guidance are available for students, parents, and carers, along with support for wellbeing, study skills, and careers.Research:
The university conducts research across various disciplines, with opportunities for postgraduate research degrees and PhD funding.Employability:
The university offers resources and support to help students develop their career prospects and find employment after graduation.Student Life and Campus Experience:
The university offers a vibrant campus life with various opportunities for students to engage in social activities, clubs, and societies. The university has multiple campuses located in Brighton and Eastbourne, providing a diverse and engaging campus experience.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Employability:
The university is ranked in the top 30% for graduate earnings and has a high percentage of graduates in work or further study.Supportive Learning Environment:
The university provides a range of support services to help students succeed in their studies.Diverse Academic Programs:
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across various subject areas.Vibrant Campus Life:
The university offers a vibrant campus life with various opportunities for students to engage in social activities, clubs, and societies.Location:
The university is located in Brighton, a popular seaside city with a thriving cultural scene.Academic Programs:
The university offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Arts and Humanities:
Art, Design, Media, Music, English, History, and more.Business and Law:
Business, Management, Finance, Law, and more.Science and Technology:
Engineering, Computing, Biology, Chemistry, and more.Health and Social Care:
Nursing, Midwifery, Social Work, Psychology, and more.Other:
The university has received various awards and accreditations, including:
Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) Silver Award:
Recognizing the quality of teaching and learning at the university.Athena Swan Gender Charter - Silver Award:
Demonstrating the university's commitment to gender equality.Race Equality Charter Bronze Award:
Recognizing the university's commitment to racial equality.Stonewall LGBTQ+ Inclusive Employer Gold Award:
Recognizing the university's commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion.Disability Confident Employer logo:
Demonstrating the university's commitment to employing disabled people.EcoCampus Platinum Award:
Recognizing the university's commitment to sustainability.Customer Service Excellence Award:
Recognizing the university's commitment to providing excellent customer service.History of Design and Material Culture MA: Entry Requirements
Entry requirements
Degree and experience
- Normally a 2:1 undergraduate degree in a relevant subject.
- suitable professional experience
English language requirements
- IELTS 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each element.
- International students may need to meet additional requirements, such as a visa.
- The university may also consider other factors, such as your personal statement, references, and work experience.