MSc Contemporary Identities

Program Overview

The MSc in Contemporary Identities at the University of Bristol is a unique and interdisciplinary program that explores the complex, evolving nature of identities in today’s globalized world. This program delves into the ways in which contemporary identities are shaped by factors such as race, gender, class, sexuality, nationality, and digital culture. Through this program, students will gain a deeper understanding of the theoretical and practical aspects of identity formation and expression in the 21st century. It is particularly suited for those interested in social research, public policy, community work, cultural studies, or other fields where an understanding of identity is crucial. Graduates are prepared to contribute to debates and practices around social justice, inclusivity, and diversity in both academic and professional settings.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the MSc in Contemporary Identities at the University of Bristol offers a rich combination of theoretical foundations and practical applications. Core modules cover topics such as the social construction of identity, the impact of globalization on personal and collective identities, and the role of media and technology in shaping public perceptions. Students will also engage with critical theories related to postcolonialism, feminism, queer theory, and critical race theory, all of which are central to understanding contemporary identity formation. A key feature of the program is its interdisciplinary approach, drawing on sociology, cultural studies, philosophy, and anthropology to explore how identities are experienced, negotiated, and represented in various contexts. Students will also have the opportunity to tailor their studies through elective modules, allowing them to explore specific areas of interest in greater depth. The program culminates in a dissertation where students conduct original research, providing them with an opportunity to contribute new insights to the field.

Research Focus: The research focus of the MSc Contemporary Identities program is centered on understanding the dynamics of identity in modern society. Students will engage in research that examines how identities are shaped by political, social, and cultural forces, particularly in the context of global change, migration, digital media, and shifting social norms. Key areas of research include the intersectionality of identity (how factors such as race, gender, and sexuality intersect and influence each other), the role of media and digital technologies in constructing identities, and how global migration patterns and social movements challenge traditional notions of national and cultural identities. The University of Bristol encourages students to explore both the personal and societal dimensions of identity, fostering research that can contribute to broader discussions on social justice, inequality, and the ways in which identity impacts power structures.

Industry Engagement: The MSc Contemporary Identities program at the University of Bristol provides students with significant opportunities for industry engagement, particularly through its connections with public policy organizations, cultural institutions, and social justice groups. Students can participate in collaborative research projects with external partners, which may include work with non-governmental organizations (NGOs), cultural institutions, and advocacy groups focused on human rights, diversity, and inclusivity. The program’s emphasis on real-world applications means that students will engage with pressing issues related to identity, such as immigration, gender equality, and racial justice, allowing them to develop the practical skills needed to advocate for social change in professional settings. Additionally, the program hosts guest speakers, workshops, and networking events, where students can interact with professionals from a wide range of industries, including public policy, the arts, media, and social work, further enhancing their employability.

Global Perspective: The MSc Contemporary Identities program takes a global perspective on the issues surrounding identity, exploring how cultural, social, and political forces shape identity across different regions and communities. The program examines identity both locally and globally, considering the impact of transnational issues such as globalization, migration, digital technologies, and the global movement for human rights. By considering different cultural contexts and global challenges, students gain a broader understanding of how identities are fluid and multifaceted, and how they are affected by global economic, social, and political changes. The program also encourages students to consider how identities are expressed through various forms of media across cultures, providing an understanding of how global identities intersect with local contexts. This global outlook prepares graduates to work in an international context, particularly in fields such as global policy, social advocacy, international development, and cross-cultural research.