COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Arts in Cultural Studies (Thesis option) at Trent University is a research-intensive graduate program focused on the critical study of culture, society, media, and systems of knowledge. The program requires the completion of 1.0 graduate credit in CUST 5000Y, which serves as a foundational course introducing students to key theoretical frameworks, methodologies, and contemporary debates in Cultural Studies. In addition to this core requirement, students must complete 1.5 elective credits from approved graduate-level Cultural Studies courses, unless special approval is granted for alternative courses. These electives allow students to explore specialized areas such as media theory, environmental communication, gender and embodiment, political and social theory, and cultural analysis, enabling them to shape their academic focus according to their research interests. A central requirement of the program is the completion of a thesis project, which involves conducting original, independent research on an approved topic under faculty supervision. The thesis allows students to engage deeply with cultural theories and methodologies while producing a substantial scholarly contribution. Overall, the program emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary inquiry, and advanced research skills, preparing graduates for doctoral studies or professional careers in academia, media, arts, policy analysis, and other fields requiring strong analytical and interpretive expertise.