Objectives
With the relatively recent expansion of citizenship to include all members of society, there is an increasing interest in considering citizenship and diversity in a theoretically more explicit and integrated way. These issues have taken on a heightened profile in media and public policy agendas nationally and internationally. This MSc examines traditional and more recently developed theories of citizenship, exploring ways in which these concepts are challenged. Policy debates on national identity, ‘shared values’ and integration are critically examined, looking at how these debates inform approaches to nationality, immigration and citizenship education in the UK, as well as drawing on case study examples from different countries. In addition, ways of promoting inclusive participation in different educational settings, at different levels (local, regional, national, international), and in different societal contexts are explored. This programme aims to provide a high-quality theory- and practice-based postgraduate qualification for those involved, or wishing to be involved, in the interdisciplinary field of citizenship and citizenship education in the domains of research, policy and practice. It will appeal to those interested in developing and extending their knowledge and understanding of theories of, and empirical research on, citizenship, and applying this in relation to policy and practice debates in the fields of nationality, immigration and education. It also aims to contribute to the International Centre for Education for Democratic Citizenship’s growing centre of research and teaching in this domain.
Course description
For the MSc, you must achieve 180 credits – completing two core modules, two modules from a number of options, and a dissertation or work-based learning project. Each module is worth 30 credits, and the dissertation is worth 60 credits. Among modules studied, MSc students normally take a research methods programme to support study for dissertation work. For the PgDip, you must complete four modules, and for the PgCert, two modules.
All students take two core modules:
-Theorising Citizenship: Relating to Research, Policy and Practice: provides an overview of traditional theories of citizenship, and recent contributions to more inclusive understandings of citizenship. Key concepts such as ‘democracy’, ‘participation’, ‘human rights’ and ‘shared values’ will be critically interrogated. The interelationship between research, theory, policy and practice will be examined.
-Identity and Citizenship: Theory, Research, Policy and Practice: examines theories of identity and diversity in the context of citizenship, with opportunities to explore how these conceptions are dealt with in educational and broader public policy and practice contexts. In addition, you will be introduced to research in the field.
Other modules include: Education for Citizenship, Political Participation, and relevant modules from other master's programmes in youth participation, community studies, race and ethnicity, or development studies.
Teaching
Seminars, lectures, workshops and presentations; external professionals will contribute to specific sessions.
Assessment
Assessment formats may vary depending on option modules selected. One written assignment per module. MSc dissertation or work-based learning project.
When to apply
-We suggest you apply as early as possible.
-Interviews from March onwards for entry in October 2008.
-Late applications will be considered, subject to availability of places
