Culture, Diaspora, Ethnicity Birkbeck, University of London

Overview

The Culture, Diaspora, Ethnicity programme at Birkbeck, University of London is a dynamic and interdisciplinary postgraduate course designed to explore the complex interrelations of culture, identity, and race within contemporary society. This course is structured to provide students with a profound understanding of the historical and sociopolitical contexts that shape our understanding of race and ethnicity today.

Why Culture, Diaspora, Ethnicity at Birkbeck?

Birkbeck stands out as a leading institution in the study of race, racism, and the historical legacies of empire. The university's commitment to these critical areas is reflected in its high student satisfaction rates, achieving an impressive 100% satisfaction in both 2019 and 2023. Students benefit from a vibrant scholarly community, access to award-winning faculty, and an array of resources that enhance learning. Birkbeck's status as the first University of Sanctuary in London further underscores its dedication to inclusivity and support for diverse student backgrounds.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

The tuition fees for the Culture, Diaspora, Ethnicity programme are as follows:

• National students: £7,380 per year
• International students: £13,560 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to engage students with a variety of themes and topics, including:

• Histories of ‘race’ and racism
• Colonial histories and their contemporary implications
• Postcolonial political communities
• Social identities and cultural formations
• Global geopolitics and local debates on inequality
• Anticolonial and antifascist resistance movements
• Theorising community and belonging
• Contemporary racial nationalisms and their societal impacts

Students will also have the opportunity to select from a range of specialised modules, allowing them to tailor their studies to their interests and career aspirations.

Industry Demand

The course prepares graduates for diverse career paths in sectors such as human rights, social work, journalism, and cultural heritage. The skills acquired, including advanced critical writing, research capabilities, and effective communication, are highly sought after in today's job market.

Guaranteed Work Experience

This programme includes opportunities for practical engagement and research, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world contexts. Students can undertake empirical or theoretical dissertations, contributing to their professional experience and academic growth.

Careers with Culture, Diaspora, Ethnicity

Graduates from this programme have successfully entered various fields, including:

• Human rights advocacy
• Social and community work
• Journalism and media
• Health and social policy
• Academic research and teaching
• Cultural curatorship and heritage management

Many alumni have progressed to influential roles in both national and international organisations, contributing to critical discussions and initiatives in their respective fields.