This course examines the changing dynamics of contemporary international relations in the context of the politics of the forces shaping and being shaped by popular culture. It focuses on key theories, policies, and events in world politics, in relation to both traditional and new media.
As a student on this course you learn to think critically about:
- how world politics is reflected or reproduced in popular culture
- how the politics of popular culture shapes the dynamics of world politics
- approaches and methods in social science and in cultural studies research
You develop the skills to:
- identify, analyse, evaluate and interpret the principal source materials for world politics and popular culture
- plan, carry out and communicate original research
This specialist knowledge and skills equip you for careers in government agencies, business, the media and other areas where an advanced knowledge and understanding of contemporary world politics and popular culture is needed.
We have a student-run Politics Postgraduate Society which brings together MA and PhD students to organise academic and social events. The Society runs:
- professional development seminars, led by academic staff
- seminars delivered by fellow postgraduates
- round table discussions with staff and visitors
- the 'New Voices' seminar series, for exciting young external speakers
- a weekly film night during term time
Key staff include Dr Matt Davies.
Delivery
Teaching takes place on Newcastle University's city centre campus. Small group seminars, of no more than 15 students, create a highly positive and intimate learning environment.
The course comprises compulsory modules, optional politics modules and a dissertation. The compulsory module is co-taught via videolink with students from York University (Toronto). Your remaining modules in popular culture are chosen from the wide range of modules available across the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, including modules in arts, music, film, literature and media studies.
Placements
You can include a work placement in your studies through the Career Development module.
Facilities
You will enjoy the benefit of most teaching taking place in the Politics building with the Robinson Library next door. This space includes a dedicated postgraduate computer room and a postgraduate common room
