About this course
- Entry year: 2012/13
- Course code: V9001
- Level: Postgraduate
- Department: Creative Industries
- Campus: St Matthias, Bower Ashton
- Duration: 12 months full-time/ 24 months part-time
- Study Abroad: No
- Programme leader: Michelle Henning
Introduction
The MA by Research (Culture) is designed for people who wish to develop their qualitative research skills for professional purposes. You may be hoping to do social and cultural research, work as a media researcher, or to proceed to doing a PhD in media, culture or film studies with a view to an academic research and teaching career. You may already work in the cultural sector, or with a charity or government body, and wish to challenge yourself and improve your research.
The emphasis is firmly on critical approaches to research. Whichever field you are hoping to work in, you will be someone who wants to make challenging and innovative work, which may be socially conscious, politically committed, reflective and critical of existing conventions. The department has a particular strength in digital practices and research methods, and you will gain access to some of the latest thinking and new developments in media production and theory.
The programme offers an interdisciplinary approach to research which draws on a range of subjects that relate to the fields of culture and media. The course uses a 'blended learning approach' combining online discussion and resources, and written debate with intensive 'live' workshops and seminars, presentations and one-to-one tutorials. Close links with our Digital Cultures Research Centre give you access to a wide range of events which will introduce you to the cutting-edge in new media production and debates.
Our MA by Research framework is intended to enable a student to undertake an in-depth research project. You will specialise in a specific area of research. On your application you should specify whether you want to pursue PhD research in media, cultural studies or film, pursue non-academic qualitative social research or develop your skills as a media researcher. You will be appointed a dissertation tutor whose expertise is close to your chosen area of research. We anticipate students to already have done some work on their specialist field, to have some familiarity with critical or cultural theories and to be capable of self-directed study. Sharing knowledge and working collaboratively in discussion groups are important parts of the programme, so we try to recruit students from diverse backgrounds and fields.
Structure
Content
The course can be taken on a full-time or part-time basis and consists of two 30 credit taught modules: Critical Debates in Cultural Theory and Critical Research Practice, followed by a 120 credit Extended Dissertation module, which includes workshops and one-to-one tutorial supervision as well as independent study.
Critical Debates places heavy emphasis on writing ability, analytical skills, comprehension and presentation. The emphasis is on socially committed and critical approaches. It covers key characteristics of contemporary culture and their historical emergence, and may consider (for example) debates about objectivity, representation, and social and cultural identity. We teach writing and presentation as practices, through set exercises and assignments.
Critical Research Practice surveys existing approaches to cultural, media and social research with an emphasis on qualitative research and close analysis. We look at visual and textual research techniques using the internet, film and tape archives, specialist collections, picture libraries, museums and government departments. We also consider relevant legislation and ethics.
The Extended Dissertation continues and develops approaches to research introduced in these modules with visiting speakers and workshops, but is centred around your own research into a relevant topic of your choice.
Teaching and learning
The course uses a 'blended learning approach' combining online discussion and resources, and written debate with intensive ‘live’ workshops and seminars, presentations and one-to-one tutorials. This blended learning structure means it is possible to combine the MA with other responsibilities, and it may be possible to do the course while living elsewhere, though you would need to travel to attend the various events in Bristol as well.
For information on the course leader please visit Michelle Henning's profile page.
Entry
Entry requirements
The course will be of particular interest to students who already are involved in research-based work in the cultural sector, who would like to pursue a research career in this field, and / or know what area they want to research in the field of media, culture or film. To apply, you need to complete and submit an application form.
We generally require applicants to have a prior degree (at least BA, BSc or equivalent), preferably in cultural or media studies, media practice, film, journalism, humanities, sociology or arts. Relevant professional experience considered. Fluent English, oral and written. You should have previous experience of research-based work (an undergraduate dissertation, or workplace research).
In your application you should provide details of your background, experience and motivation. Please also specify the broad topic or field you would like to examine in your dissertation, and if possible, whether you intend eventually to pursue PhD research in Media, Cultural Studies or Film; become a non-academic social / cultural researcher; or to pursue a career as a media researcher. You should be clear that this programme will not automatically lead to acceptance as a PhD candidate at the University, or necessarily lead to jobs in these fields, but that it will give you a competitive advantage.
Your application will be considered by staff and if successful you will be contacted for interview, where you will be asked to provide an example of your written work. If you are an EU or international student we may hold a telephone or Skype interview.
We aim to contact you within 3 weeks of receipt of your application.
Admission criteria
General grounds for the selection of students include academic history, evidence of ability to pursue the proposed topic of research, evidence of excellent writing skills and ability to handle complex ideas. More specific grounds will vary according to the kind of researcher you are aiming to become or project you want to pursue. These specific criteria could include for example: evidence of good judgement, an ability to communicate clearly, good analytical skills strong interpersonal and organisational skills, and an ability to generate ideas.
Good English language skills are essential. We expect commitment, and attendance at scheduled workshops, tutorials and seminars is essential.
Fees
Full details of fees for this course can be found on our postgraduate fees pages.
For funding options, please see our funding and scholarships information.
How to apply
There is no official closing date and we accept applications throughout the year.
Applications for this course can be made by using the "Apply for this course link" within the next steps box.
For further information
Page last updated 14 December 2011