Cultural and Creative Industries

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This course is hosted by the Faculty of Development and Society Graduate School in collaboration with the Culture, Communication and Computing Research Institute. The Graduate School website provides a communication hub for students and staff engaged in research, information about our research work, and useful contact information.

During this course we introduce you to research methods and strategies within cultural studies and sociology, and the supporting theories and philosophies. You can also develop areas of specialist interests within cultural policy and management, or communication and media studies.

It is ideal if you have a degree in a social sciences related subject and plan to do research in

* cultural policy and management or
* cultural, communication and media studies

In some modules, you meet and discuss research issues with students from other MRes courses.

Our staff are currently involved in research areas including

* cultural politics and policy
* media studies
* representations of environment and sustainability
* visual ethnography
* discourses of heritage
* gender and feminist theory
* sport and media
* ethnicity and representation
* sociology of culture
* communication theory and policy
* sexualities and media

You study a range of research methodologies throughout the course including o biographical research o case study o cultural policy analysis o ethnography o experimental design o media analysis o survey design and analysis o discourse analysis. Throughout the course, you design, conduct and critique research.

The MRes includes a research-based dissertation, which may become a pilot study towards a PhD.

Cultural Studies at Sheffield Hallam University offers an in-depth exploration of contemporary and historical cultural phenomena, examining the ways in which culture shapes identities, societies, and global interactions. The programme provides students with a comprehensive understanding of diverse cultural practices, media, and artistic expressions, enabling them to critically analyze cultural narratives and power dynamics. Through interdisciplinary approaches, students engage with theories from sociology, anthropology, media studies, and the arts to develop a nuanced perspective on cultural phenomena across different contexts.

The curriculum includes modules on representations of culture in media and popular culture, the impact of globalization on cultural identities, and the role of culture in social change. Students will study case studies ranging from local community practices to global cultural movements, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills. Practical components may include research projects, multimedia presentations, and collaborative assignments that encourage creative exploration and detailed analysis.

In addition to theoretical knowledge, the programme emphasizes employability skills such as research methodology, communication, and intercultural understanding. Students will have opportunities to participate in workshops, guest lectures, and field visits, enriching their academic experience and expanding their professional networks. The programme prepares graduates for careers in areas such as media, arts management, cultural policy, education, and community development, equipping them with the ability to analyze cultural issues critically and contribute to cultural understanding and innovation.

Sheffield Hallam’s environment supports an engaging and interactive learning experience, combining academic rigor with practical insight. Students are encouraged to pursue their particular interests within the broad field of cultural studies, enabling personalized academic pathways. Graduates will be well-prepared to work in diverse settings, employing their knowledge of cultural dynamics to promote inclusivity, creativity, and social awareness in their future careers.

The BA (Hons) Cultural Studies programme at Sheffield Hallam University is designed to offer students a comprehensive understanding of cultural phenomena, practices, and theories. Students are expected to engage critically with a wide range of cultural texts, including media, literature, art, and social practices, to explore how culture shapes and is shaped by societal structures and individual identities. The programme emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, combining insights from sociology, anthropology, media studies, and history to deepen students’ analytical skills. Core modules typically include Introduction to Cultural Theories, Contemporary Cultures, Media and Society, and Identity and Difference, providing foundational knowledge and critical frameworks. Students are also encouraged to develop practical skills through workshops and project-based assessments, fostering competence in research, communication, and digital literacy. In addition to compulsory modules, students select optional modules tailored to their interests, such as Popular Culture, Globalization, or Gender and Culture, enabling specialization in areas of personal and professional relevance. The programme promotes independent scholarship through research projects and dissertations, requiring students to apply theoretical insights to empirical investigations. Collaborative learning, seminars, and group work form integral parts of the curriculum, enhancing teamwork and presentation skills essential for careers in media, education, arts, and cultural sectors. The programme typically lasts three years full-time, with opportunities for placements or study abroad, providing practical experience and cultural immersion. Assessment methods include essays, presentations, projects, and exams, designed to evaluate both theoretical understanding and practical competencies. Upon graduation, students are equipped with critical thinking skills, cultural awareness, and analytical abilities, enabling them to pursue careers or postgraduate studies in areas such as media, arts administration, education, or cultural consultancy. The university ensures that programme requirements align with industry standards and academic excellence, constantly updating curricula to reflect current trends and research in cultural studies.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The financing of the Cultural Studies program at Sheffield Hallam University is structured to support students through a variety of funding options, including government-funded loans, scholarships, and private bursaries. Students from the UK and the European Union may be eligible to apply for undergraduate student loans provided by the Student Loans Company, which cover tuition fees and contribute to living expenses. These loans are repayable after graduation, based on income thresholds, making higher education accessible to a broader demographic. International students are responsible for full tuition payments, which can be paid upfront or through the university’s flexible payment plans, allowing installments over the course duration. Sheffield Hallam University offers several scholarships specifically targeted at Cultural Studies students, recognizing academic excellence and financial need. These include merit-based scholarships, which provide a partial fee waiver, and need-based bursaries, aimed at supporting students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Additionally, external funding opportunities such as government grants, research councils, and charitable foundations may also be available for eligible students, especially those engaging in research components of the program. The university's financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance on applying for these funds, ensuring students can access financial assistance tailored to their individual circumstances. Furthermore, part-time work opportunities are available on-campus and in the surrounding community, enabling students to earn income while studying. Sheffield Hallam University partners with various organizations and employers to facilitate placements and internships, which can sometimes include financial stipends. The overall financing strategy aims to reduce barriers to accessing higher education and support students throughout their academic journey in Cultural Studies, making the program financially sustainable and accessible for students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.

The BA (Hons) Cultural Studies programme at Sheffield Hallam University offers students an in-depth exploration of contemporary culture, enabling them to develop critical thinking and analytical skills relevant to understanding cultural phenomena in diverse contexts. The course is designed to engage students with a wide range of cultural forms, including media, art, literature, popular culture, and digital practices, providing a multidisciplinary perspective to interpret and critique cultural practices and productions. Throughout the programme, students will examine the ways culture shapes identities, communities, and societal structures, while also considering issues of power, representation, and social change.

The curriculum combines theoretical frameworks with practical applications, encouraging students to develop research skills, creative thinking, and the ability to communicate complex ideas effectively. Modules typically cover topics such as cultural theory, media studies, gender and sexuality, ethnicity and identity, postcolonial studies, and digital cultures. Students are often given opportunities to undertake field research, attend cultural events, and produce their own projects, fostering both academic and professional development.

This course is suitable for individuals passionate about understanding the digital age's cultural landscapes or those interested in careers in media, arts management, policy, or academia. The university’s facilities support a vibrant learning environment, including dedicated media labs, libraries with extensive resources, and links with industry partners. The course may also incorporate work placements or collaborative projects with external organizations, providing valuable real-world experience.

Graduates of the Cultural Studies programme have gone on to pursue careers in journalism, broadcasting, cultural management, public relations, community projects, and further postgraduate research. The programme emphasizes not only academic excellence but also practical skills, critical awareness, and cultural sensitivity, preparing students for a dynamic and evolving job market. The university's focus on inclusive and reflective learning ensures students gain an understanding of global perspectives and social responsibility within cultural contexts.