Cities, Culture and Creativity

An exciting new cross-disciplinary MA, which studies contemporary UK and international cities from socio-economic, cultural, theoretical and practical perspectives.

• Course available to study full time (1 year) and part time (2 years)
• Innovative, multidisciplinary programme taught by expert academics
• Links with leading arts, cultural and creative organisations locally, nationally and internationally
• Excellent pastoral and academic support
• Taught in Liverpool, one of the leading arts and cultural centres outside of London (European Capital of Culture in 2008, UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Why study this course at LJMU?

Based in Liverpool, one of the UK's most high-profile and fascinating cities, which has been the scene of many innovative cultural programmes and urban regeneration initiatives, the degree focusses on the relationships between cities, culture and creativity.

Partners on this programme include the European Institute for Urban Affairs (EIUA), the Institute of Cultural Capital (ICC), the Liverpool Business School and the School of Humanities and Social Science, all of whom are based in the Faculty of Arts, Professional and Social Studies. You will be exposed to leading cities research such as the recently launched report, Beatles heritage in Liverpool and its economic and cultural sector impact, published by the ICC, EIUA and The University of Liverpool.

This degree will provide you with a broad programme of intellectual and academic perspectives on urban development, cultural distinctiveness and the way this is mediated by key institutions, social groupings and different representations of cities.  You will hear from a range of high profile speakers, not only from LJMU's vibrant academic community, but also from elsewhere in the commercial, cultural and policy making sectors. Our regular guest speakers will elaborate on many of the programme's key themes.  The core teaching team includes Professor Richard Evans, Dr Gerwyn Jones (EIUA) and Dr Jan Evans (Liverpool Business School).

Through the course of your studies you will consider the importance of creative communities and leadership to the cultural and creative development of the urban environment.

You will gain an understanding of key urban theories, trends, policies and dynamics by drawing upon a range of contemporary local and global case studies to illustrate debates and policy responses. You will reflect on how urban images and identities are constructed and reconstructed, by whom and for what purpose, focusing on concepts such as city marketing, place identity, place brand and branding.   

The programme will enable you to play a key role in developing approaches to study and knowledge application in the fields of creativity and culture in urban environment. Another aim of the programme is to develop graduates who have essential skills in research design, project management and relevant major quantitative and qualitative research methods.  To examine how cultural policy fits with broader strategies for re-imagining and regenerating cities, you will use key skills to research and critically engage with the theories, principles, debates and intellectual paradigms that underpin the study of cities, culture and creativity. You will be expected to critically reflect on and communicate your research findings, knowledge and understanding throughout the degree.

• Understanding Cities: Theory, Culture and Social Change
• Research Methods: Cities, Culture and Creativity
• Creative Communities
• Re-imagining Cities: Using Cultural Policy and Place Marketing
• Dissertation

Requirements

• You will need an Honours degree (minimum 2:2) in a relevant subject
• An IELTS 6.5 score demonstrating your proficiency in English 
• Make sure you add as much detail as possible – including grades and results. Without enough information universities might struggle to make a decision.
• The application fee is £13 if you’re applying to just one course, or £24 for multiple courses 
• All academic transcripts
• Copies of degree/diploma certificates or work reference (if employed)
• One academic reference
• Your personal statement
• Copy of your valid passport (with a minimum of 6 months left before expiration)
• In addition to normal entry requirements, you will be expected to demonstrate a very good level of English language competence, for example an IELTS score of 6.0-6.5 or equivalent. Please note: specific courses may require higher levels of English language competence. If you have applied to study a full-time taught Masters, MRes, MPhil or PhD at LJMU, you should check if you require an Academic Technology Approval Scheme or ATAS certificate. It can take four to six weeks to receive an ATAS certificate, so please make sure you apply as early as possible. You can find out more on the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) website. Alternatively, contact LJMU’s International Admissions Team for guidance. Please note: international students entering on a Tier 4 Visa cannot study part time. Students entering the UK on alternate types of Visa may be in a position to study part time. Please contact LJMU’s International Admissions Team for further details before making your application.  In order to obtain a Visa you will also need to show evidence that the money required to cover your tuition fees and living expenses has been in your bank account for at least 28 days prior to submitting your visa application. So please make sure that your finances are in place before applying. 

Scholarships

• LJMU Roscoe International Scholarship
• Developing Global Citizens Postgraduate Scholarship
• English for Undergraduate and Postgraduate Studies Bursary

The BA (Hons) in Cities, Culture and Creativity at Liverpool John Moores University offers students a comprehensive exploration of the dynamic relationship between urban environments and cultural industries. This programme is designed to develop students' understanding of how cities function as hubs of cultural activity, creative enterprise, and social development. Through a multidisciplinary approach, students examine various aspects including urban planning, cultural policies, creative industries, community engagement, and the socio-economic impacts of culture within urban contexts.

The course curriculum includes modules that focus on urban studies, cultural theory, creative economy strategies, and digital innovation in the arts. Students are encouraged to critically analyze current trends in city development and cultural policy-making, gaining insights into how creative sectors contribute to local identity and economic growth. Practical components such as project work, field visits, and collaborations with local cultural organizations enable students to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.

Liverpool’s vibrant cultural scene provides an ideal environment for this programme, with access to museums, galleries, music venues, and creative startups. The university also provides industry placements and networking opportunities facilitated through partnerships with local authorities, arts organizations, and cultural entrepreneurs. These experiences prepare graduates for careers in urban development agencies, cultural management, creative consultancy, event planning, and community arts projects.

Moreover, the programme emphasizes the development of transferable skills such as critical thinking, project management, communication, and digital literacy. Students learn to analyze complex urban-cultural issues and propose innovative solutions to enhance the cultural and social fabric of cities. The course supports a multidisciplinary outlook that encourages students to think creatively and act strategically in the evolving landscape of cities and culture.

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped to contribute to the development of sustainable, inclusive, and culturally vibrant urban spaces. With the increasing importance of creative industries in shaping the future of cities worldwide, this programme aims to produce forward-thinking professionals capable of making a meaningful impact on urban life and cultural policy.