The MA Food Studies at the University of Exeter provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to the study of food, culture, and society. This postgraduate program examines food from a global and local perspective, exploring its role in shaping identities, cultures, economies, and global systems. The program is ideal for individuals interested in the intersection of food with social sciences, politics, economics, and environmental studies. By focusing on food systems, sustainability, and food policy, this course equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to critically assess food-related issues and engage with food-related careers in academia, public policy, and the food industry.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA Food Studies program is designed to provide students with a robust understanding of the complex relationships between food and society. Core modules cover a wide range of topics, including food history, food policy, sustainability, and food culture. Students will gain insights into the global food systems, examining issues such as food security, food ethics, and the environmental impact of food production. The program also includes practical elements, such as research methods and project work, allowing students to apply their theoretical learning to real-world scenarios. Optional modules cover subjects such as food writing, food and media, and the role of food in health and wellbeing. The curriculum is designed to encourage critical thinking and debate, enabling students to explore food-related issues from multiple perspectives.
Research Focus: The research focus of the MA Food Studies program is centered around the multifaceted role of food in contemporary society. Students will explore food as both a cultural artifact and a commodity, investigating how food systems are shaped by politics, economics, and environmental considerations. Research topics may include the sustainability of food production, global food trade, food policy development, and the social and cultural significance of food. The program encourages students to undertake independent research projects, which may involve both theoretical exploration and empirical fieldwork. Students also have access to the university's extensive resources, including research centers dedicated to sustainability and food policy, allowing them to engage with cutting-edge research in the field.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is an integral part of the MA Food Studies program at the University of Exeter. The program provides students with opportunities to connect with professionals from various sectors of the food industry, including food production, food policy, public health, and sustainable agriculture. Through internships, placements, and industry-led projects, students can gain hands-on experience in addressing food-related challenges in real-world contexts. The program also offers networking opportunities with industry experts through guest lectures, workshops, and seminars. These interactions allow students to gain valuable insights into the food industry and enhance their career prospects in the food sector.
Global Perspective: The MA Food Studies program takes a global approach to the study of food, emphasizing the interconnectedness of food systems across different regions and cultures. Students will explore the global challenges facing food systems, including issues such as food security, climate change, and the economic implications of food production and distribution. The program encourages students to examine how food practices and policies differ across cultures and how these differences can be understood in a global context. Students will also gain an understanding of the role of food in global health, nutrition, and sustainability efforts, preparing them to address food-related issues on a global scale.
