BSc Acoustics and Music Technology
The BSc Acoustics and Music Technology program at The University of Edinburgh offers a ...
MSc Narrative Futures: Art, Data, Society
Central Campus
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MSc Narrative Futures: Art, Data, Society program at The University of Edinburgh offers an innovative and interdisciplinary approach to the study of narrative in the context of emerging technologies, data analytics, and societal transformations. This cutting-edge program explores the intersection of art, technology, and society, examining how narratives shape our understanding of the world and influence social, cultural, and political dynamics. Students engage with a range of theoretical perspectives and practical methodologies from fields such as narrative theory, digital media studies, data science, and critical theory, gaining insight into the role of storytelling in contemporary culture and exploring new possibilities for creative expression and social change. Through a combination of academic coursework, hands-on projects, and collaborative research, students develop critical thinking skills, digital literacy, and ethical awareness, preparing them for careers in fields such as media, communications, cultural heritage, and technology innovation.
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Narrative Theory and Analysis: The program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of narrative theory and analysis, examining different forms of storytelling across diverse media platforms, genres, and cultural contexts. Students learn how narratives are constructed, interpreted, and circulated in society, exploring topics such as character development, plot structure, and narrative aesthetics.
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Digital Culture and Media Practices: Students explore the impact of digital culture and media practices on narrative production, distribution, and reception. They investigate how new media technologies, such as social media, virtual reality, and interactive storytelling platforms, are reshaping the way stories are told and consumed, and critically assess the implications for creativity, identity, and representation.
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Data Narratives and Visualization: The program introduces students to the emerging field of data narratives and visualization, exploring how data-driven storytelling techniques can be used to communicate complex information and generate insights about contemporary issues. Students learn how to collect, analyze, and visualize data sets, and how to design narrative-driven interfaces and interactive experiences for diverse audiences.
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Cultural Critique and Social Impact: Students engage in critical discussions about the role of narrative in shaping cultural values, social norms, and political ideologies. They examine how narratives are used to construct and contest identities, ideologies, and power relations in society, and explore strategies for critically analyzing and deconstructing dominant narratives and discourses.
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Creative Practice and Innovation: The program encourages students to experiment with creative practice and innovation in narrative storytelling. They have opportunities to collaborate on interdisciplinary projects, exploring new modes of expression and experimentation at the intersection of art, technology, and society. Students develop practical skills in digital media production, storytelling techniques, and audience engagement strategies.
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Ethics and Responsibility: Throughout the program, students are encouraged to reflect on the ethical dimensions of narrative production and consumption in a digital age. They consider questions of representation, diversity, and inclusion in storytelling, and explore ethical frameworks for addressing issues such as privacy, consent, and algorithmic bias in narrative technologies.
Location
Central Campus
Score
IELTS: 7
Tuition Fee
£ 28800
Postgraduate entry requirements:
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Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate applicants to the University of Edinburgh are typically required to have achieved a minimum academic qualification of approximately 60%, based on their previous academic achievements and qualifications.
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English Language Proficiency:
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IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 7.0, with at least 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).
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TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT), with at least 20 in each component (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing).
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PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, with at least 59 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).
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Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
The University of Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs. These scholarships aim to promote diversity, academic excellence, and global engagement.
Global Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh offers Global Scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate students. These scholarships provide financial assistance towards tuition fees and living expenses, enabling talented students from around the world to access quality education at Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships: International postgraduate students pursuing research-based programs (Ph.D., MSc by Research) can apply for Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships. These scholarships provide full or partial funding for tuition fees and living expenses during the research program.
School-specific Scholarships: Some academic schools and departments within the university offer scholarships targeting international students in specific disciplines or programs. These scholarships may be merit-based or need-based and vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts.
Commonwealth Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh participates in various Commonwealth scholarship schemes, providing opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries to study in the UK. These scholarships are funded by the UK government and other organizations.
External Funding Sources: International students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as government scholarships, private organizations, and international foundations, to support their studies at the University of Edinburgh.
It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.
Graduates of the MSc Narrative Futures: Art, Data, Society program at The University of Edinburgh are well-positioned for dynamic and diverse career opportunities at the intersection of art, technology, and society. With their interdisciplinary training in narrative theory, digital media, data analysis, and critical thinking, graduates are equipped to pursue roles in fields such as media, communications, cultural heritage, technology innovation, and more.
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Digital Media Specialist: Graduates may work as digital media specialists, creating engaging and impactful narrative-driven content for various platforms, including social media, websites, and interactive experiences. They use their skills in storytelling, data visualization, and digital design to produce multimedia content that resonates with diverse audiences and communicates complex ideas effectively.
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Content Strategist or Creative Director: Graduates can pursue careers as content strategists or creative directors, leading teams in the development and execution of narrative-driven marketing campaigns, brand storytelling initiatives, or cultural projects. They conceptualize and oversee the production of compelling narratives that align with organizational goals and resonate with target audiences.
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Data Analyst or Data Storyteller: Graduates with expertise in data analysis and visualization may work as data analysts or data storytellers, helping organizations unlock insights from data and communicate findings through narrative-driven presentations, reports, and interactive visualizations. They leverage their skills in data storytelling to make complex information accessible and actionable for decision-makers.
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Cultural Heritage Officer or Museum Curator: Graduates interested in cultural heritage and museums may work as cultural heritage officers or museum curators, developing narrative-driven exhibitions, digital experiences, and educational programs that engage visitors with art, history, and culture. They use their knowledge of narrative theory and digital technologies to create immersive and inclusive museum experiences.
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Technology Innovator or Entrepreneur: Graduates with an entrepreneurial mindset may start their own technology ventures or innovation startups, exploring new possibilities for narrative-driven applications, platforms, and experiences. They identify market opportunities, develop innovative solutions, and collaborate with artists, technologists, and stakeholders to bring their ideas to life.
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Media Analyst or Researcher: Graduates may work as media analysts or researchers, studying the impact of narratives in shaping public opinion, cultural trends, and social movements. They conduct qualitative and quantitative research, analyze media content and audience responses, and provide insights to inform strategic decision-making in media organizations, advocacy groups, or research institutions.
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Arts Educator or Workshop Facilitator: Graduates passionate about education and community engagement may work as arts educators or workshop facilitators, designing and delivering narrative-focused workshops, courses, and outreach programs for schools, community organizations, or cultural institutions. They inspire creativity, critical thinking, and digital literacy skills in learners of all ages.
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Consultant or Policy Advisor: Graduates with expertise in narrative analysis and cultural policy may work as consultants or policy advisors, providing strategic advice to government agencies, NGOs, or international organizations on issues related to media, communication, and cultural heritage. They offer insights into narrative-driven strategies for social change, cultural diplomacy, and public engagement.
