Master of Cultural Studies

Introduction

The Master of Cultural Studies (MCST) programme provides an opportunity to research and debate contemporary culture of the world in general and South Asia in particular. It also aims to contribute to the ongoing critical self-reflection of the humanities and social sciences on culture through regional and international initiatives.

This revised course structure is designed in line with the requirements of SLQF Level 9 compliance.

Preamble

Cultural Studies is an innovative interdisciplinary field of research and teaching that investigates the ways in which “culture” creates and transforms individual experiences, everyday life, social relations, and power.

The field explores relationships between culture as human expressive and symbolic activities, and cultures as distinctive ways of life. It combines the strengths of the social sciences and humanities, drawing on literary studies, sociology, media studies, history, anthropology, art history, political science, and economics.

The MCST programme offered by the Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Jaffna, extends space for discourse on culture and research opportunities with respect to Sri Lanka’s cultural diversity within global contexts.

Programme Background

The Master of Arts (MA) in Cultural Studies, now referred to as the Master of Cultural Studies (MCST), is one of the oldest postgraduate programmes offered by the Faculty of Graduate Studies since 2004.

The programme has been successfully conducted in three batches. The present curriculum revision has been carried out to accommodate contemporary academic and professional needs of the discipline.

Eligibility Requirements

• Bachelor of Arts Degree
• Any other recognized Degree with professional experience and engagement
• Any other equivalent qualification accepted by the Faculty of Graduate Studies and the Senate, University of Jaffna

Course Structure

The programme comprises a total of 30 credits, with 25 credits allocated for coursework and 5 credits for the dissertation.

• 10 Theory Course Units
• 1 Dissertation
• Each theory course carries 2 or 3 credits
• Dissertation carries 5 credits