About Cultural Studies, MA - at University of Winchester

Cultural Studies at Winchester explores a range of theoretical, conceptual and critical approaches drawing on the extensive knowledge provided by staff expertise to offer a wide-ranging and flexible programme of study Entry requirements: Normally a first or second class Honours degree in a related subject or professional experience in the area of study If English is not your first language: IELTS 6.5 (including 6.5 in academic writing) or a TOEFL score of 575 (paper-based) or 232 (computer-based) or equivalent Application process: UKPASS (full-time applicants only)or Direct Entry Application Form (part-time applicants only) Programme Content The programme develops approaches to culture and theories of culture through the development of areas relating to media culture, textual and cultural approaches (such as national or global cultures) and interdisciplinary study that examines texts and cultural examples drawn from different media (film, literature and the culture industries). The programme explores areas such as: technology, music, drugs, crime and the body; national and global perspectives on culture; new religions and spiritualities; cyberculture; writing and politics; and apocalypse culture. The programme is concerned with the diverse and multiple forms of cultural expression, whether in relation to cultural texts (in literature, film and the media), wider conceptualisations of culture (the Nation and globalism), specific forms of cultural practice or behaviour (music, crime and the body), or the meanings of contemporary culture (apocalypse, post-colonialism and the writing of culture). Modules Compulsory modules: Introduction to Cultural Studies explores culture and theories of cultural studies by reference to relevant case studies and develops understanding of critical and theoretical approaches such as the politics of culture, identity and cultural politics, socio-cultural perspectives, theories of representation, media culture, audience studies and consumption. Postgraduate Seminar is designed in a flexible way so students can focus on areas that they wish to develop within Cultural Studies. Research Methods refers to various models and practices and serves to equip students to gather, analyse and organise information, communicate concepts and research with skill and intensity. It also prepares students for independent study, such as the dissertation. Optional modules: Drugs, Identities and Popular Culture Crime and Culture Popular Music Theorising the World The Apocalypse in Contemporary American Literature and Culture The Body in Contemporary Culture Writing and Politics The Construction of National Identity and National Institutions Contemporary Mediated Femininities The MA Cultural Studies also offers co-validated modules shared with other Masters degrees in the Faculty of Arts. These co-validated modules include: New Technologies and Culture Cultures of Third Cinema Fairytale and Gothic Horror Death in World Religion Postcolonial Literature and Theory New Religions Assessment Modules are assessed by a variety of exercises including presentations, workshops, essays, textual analysis, critical evaluations and collaborative work. Dissertation Students undertake a dissertation of 20,000 words as part of their independent study with full tutorial support in critical method and writing skills. This original piece of research work is the culmination of the degree, both in terms of complexity of ideas and analysis, and as a personally rewarding task. The dissertation must relate to the programme but it does not have to focus on the taught modules. Careers The programme develops an awareness of contemporary cultural issues and phenomena. This is an advantage to those seeking careers in industries such as education, the media, advertising and marketing and the arts. It offers skills of analysis, interpretation and critical thinking, plus opportunities for the development of IT skills. The programme also provides a firm foundation for undertaking a research degree or further training.

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