MA Culture, Society and Globalisation

Program Overview

The MA in Culture, Society, and Globalisation at the University of York offers students a robust academic framework to explore the complexities of global interconnectedness. This program places emphasis on understanding the dynamic relationship between culture, society, and the global forces that shape both. By combining theoretical and empirical research, students gain insights into the ways in which globalisation influences social norms, cultural production, and political structures. The curriculum allows for a deep dive into topics such as global inequalities, migration, cultural exchange, international relations, and the role of media and communication in the global context. The interdisciplinary nature of the program means that students benefit from a broad perspective on how various academic fields interact with and inform issues related to globalisation.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA in Culture, Society, and Globalisation is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the key theoretical and empirical issues related to globalisation and its impact on cultural and social structures. Core modules focus on key themes such as global social theory, the political economy of globalisation, and the transformation of cultural practices and identities. Students will also have the opportunity to engage with elective modules that allow them to specialize in areas of interest such as migration, social change, media and communication, and global inequalities. The program includes research training in both qualitative and quantitative research methods, providing students with the tools to critically analyze global issues and conduct independent research. The final dissertation enables students to explore a topic of their choice in-depth, applying the skills and knowledge acquired during the course to real-world global challenges.

Research Focus: The research focus of the MA in Culture, Society, and Globalisation is on understanding the profound and often contradictory effects of globalisation on society, culture, and politics. Students are encouraged to critically engage with current research on global social issues, including economic disparities, the flow of people and ideas across borders, cultural exchanges, and the effects of global media. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary research, drawing from sociology, anthropology, political science, media studies, and cultural studies to explore how globalisation is reshaping identities, communities, and global power structures. Students will conduct independent research, often engaging with real-world case studies to better understand the theoretical and practical implications of globalisation on culture and society. Faculty members at the University of York are engaged in innovative research in global studies, providing students with the opportunity to participate in high-impact research projects.

Industry Engagement: The MA in Culture, Society, and Globalisation benefits from strong industry engagement, with ample opportunities for students to connect with professionals working in the fields of international development, global media, social research, and policy-making. The University of York has established partnerships with a range of global organizations, including NGOs, think tanks, and international institutions, which provides students with valuable networking opportunities and potential career pathways. Industry practitioners are frequently invited to deliver guest lectures, participate in panel discussions, and offer mentoring to students. Students are also encouraged to gain practical experience through internships and placements, allowing them to apply their academic learning to real-world global challenges. These connections ensure that students are well-prepared to enter careers in international development, global advocacy, policy analysis, and cultural exchange.

Global Perspective: The MA in Culture, Society, and Globalisation offers a truly global perspective on contemporary social issues, encouraging students to engage with global debates and understand the interconnectedness of the world. The program incorporates international case studies and perspectives, enabling students to explore how global processes affect different regions, cultures, and communities. Students are exposed to globalisation’s impact on issues such as migration, climate change, human rights, global economic inequalities, and cultural exchange. The program also offers opportunities for international collaboration, allowing students to interact with peers and experts from around the world. This global approach ensures that students graduate with the knowledge and skills needed to work in an interconnected world and contribute to global solutions on a variety of issues.