COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Arts in Cultural Studies (Major Research Paper option) at Trent University is a graduate program designed to develop advanced critical, theoretical, and research skills in the study of culture, society, and media. The program requires the completion of 1.0 graduate credit in CUST 5000Y, which provides a foundational framework for cultural studies research and introduces students to key debates, methodologies, and theoretical approaches in the field. In addition to this core requirement, students must complete 2.0 elective credits from approved graduate-level Cultural Studies courses, unless alternative courses are specifically approved. These electives allow students to tailor their studies to areas of interest such as media theory, social and political thought, environmental communication, gender studies, and cultural theory. A central component of the program is the Major Research Project, which involves independent scholarly work on an approved topic within Cultural Studies. This project enables students to critically engage with cultural phenomena while developing strong research, writing, and analytical skills. Overall, the program emphasizes interdisciplinary inquiry, creative and critical thinking, and academic research. It prepares graduates for further academic study or professional roles in cultural, media, and policy-related fields where strong analytical and interpretive abilities are essential.