Master in Cultural Studies MRes

Research Overview

Through your own unique research, you will develop your knowledge of cultural studies and learn to apply cultural studies approaches to contemporary social, political, and cultural phenomena. You'll be studying in an environment with a strong interdisciplinary and international perspective, guided by a transnational and transcultural agenda. This provides a stimulating and vibrant community with debate encouraged between staff and students.

Staff Expertise

We have particular strengths in modern theory, political philosophy, aesthetics, feminist, queer and gender studies, cultural, literary, media and visual studies, psychoanalysis, art history, postcolonial, sensory, science and technology studies, and memory studies.

Research Centres

The Department of Cultural, Media and Visual Studies is home to two research centres where much of the Critical Theory and Cultural Studies research activity takes place. You will be encouraged to get involved and contribute.

• Centre for Research in Critical Theory
• Centre for Contemporary East Asian Cultural Studies

Course Content

The course is made up of 180 credits split as follows: 120 credits for the Dissertation and 60 credits for Optional modules. You will complete a 25,000 word dissertation with a topic agreed with your supervisors. You must choose three optional modules from a sample including 'Arts in Society', 'Issues and Challenges in Contemporary Media', 'Technology and the Transformations of Communication', and 'Mastering the Arts'. This course offers a unique intersection of arts and real-world application through elective modules, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of interdisciplinary research.

The University of Nottingham is a research-intensive Russell Group university known for its global outlook and vibrant campus life in the historic city of Nottingham. Founded in 1881, the university combines a broad academic portfolio with strong research centres across faculties, offering students access to high-quality teaching and a wide range of disciplines. Its University Park campus provides extensive facilities and a lively students' union supporting societies, volunteering and entrepreneurial activities.

Students benefit from comprehensive careers support, placement opportunities and an environment that encourages innovation and employability. With large international cohorts and partnerships worldwide, Nottingham fosters collaborative research and multicultural learning experiences. Academic staff are active researchers, and many courses include practical projects, industry links and options for study abroad or global placements.

The city of Nottingham adds cultural depth with theatres, sports venues and green spaces, while affordable student living and strong transport links make it an attractive base for study. International students receive tailored support services covering visas, accommodation and wellbeing. For those seeking a research-led institution with broad course choices, strong career services and a dynamic student community, the University of Nottingham offers an engaging and internationally minded experience.