World Politics and Popular Culture MA

The World Politics and Popular Culture MA is a postgraduate programme that examines the dynamic relationship between contemporary international relations and popular culture. It focuses on how global political processes are represented, shaped, and influenced by cultural and media forms such as film, television, digital media, and other popular cultural outputs. Students engage with key theories and debates in world politics, alongside approaches from cultural studies and social science research methods.

The programme encourages critical thinking about how world politics is reflected and reproduced in popular culture, and how cultural production itself can influence political dynamics at global, regional, and local levels. Students develop the ability to analyse and interpret a wide range of source materials, combining political analysis with cultural interpretation.

In addition to theoretical knowledge, the course builds strong research skills, enabling students to design, conduct, and communicate original research projects. Students gain expertise in both qualitative and interdisciplinary research methods, preparing them to critically assess complex global issues.

Graduates leave with advanced understanding of international relations and popular culture, equipping them for careers in government, media, communications, international organisations, and other roles that require strong analytical, research, and critical thinking skills.