Bachelor of Arts Honours in Media and Cultural Studies

The two-year integrated course work programme in Cultural and Media studies is an interdisciplinary programme covering the Honours and Master's degree. Developed after consultation with the media industry, the graduate programme's primary aim is to educate media professionals who will obtain (a) critical conceptual skills; (b) strategic knowledge of how media (both deregulated and public service) interface with other social and economic institutions in the global information economy; (c) Skills in policy making and (d) Exposure to practical skills in the areas of information technology, web design and video production.

Postgraduate - Honours (including Postgraduate Certificate)

Appropriate Bachelor's degree. Entry is also possible through University of Natal's Rule 33 for postgraduate study.

• Demonstrate an ability to undertake self directed study.
• Write a comprehensive assignment in a standardized, academic convention.
• Summarize and critically engage with substantial bodies of information.
• Engage at an advanced level with the concepts, philosophies and concerns of media and cultural theories.
• Work both individually and as members of a group.
• Demonstrate familiarity with information technology, the ability to manipulate at least one word processing programme, and the ability to make use of the Internet in conducting research.
• Use advanced communication technology either in the form of Desk Top Publishing or Video Production, with the purpose of appreciating how these technologies contribute to the making of meaning within the media.
• Demonstrate the capacity to actualise the skills acquired in the theoretical components of the course work in both the private and the public sectors.

• Demonstrate knowledge of the cultural studies appropriate for the particular exit level.
• Demonstrate knowledge of specific areas of inquiry in the programme.
• Understand the interrelationships amongst various areas in the field.
• Analyse data appropriate to cultural and media studies.
• Grasp the theoretical and philosophical underpinnings of the area of study.
• Demonstrate knowledge of current critical debates.
• Locate cultural studies within the social and historical context of South Africa and the global order.
• Understand the nature and effects of linguistic diversity.
• Demonstrate a capacity for individual sturdy.
• Work efficiently within groups.
• Present findings both orally and in writing.
• Demonstrate command of academic English at an appropriate level.
• Demonstrate familiarity with information technology at an appropriate level.

Integrated assessment

At Honours level learners are assessed by cooperative class work and presentations on theory and practice. Two essays and regular written work per course are required. Sometimes an applied team research project will substitute for one essay. Exams are set on completion of each module, in terms of Faculty rules. On the professional skills courses continuous assessment applies.

a) Video production: Team production projects, class assignments, a viva and examination occur. Desk-top Publishing: regular individual projects and exam. Learning Technologies: class assignments, projects, exam, plus a 4-6 week professional internship.