Program overview
Admission Requirements
Intakes

Last updated on 2025-11-25

Program overview

Program Overview

The Master of Arts (MA) in Cultural Analysis and Social Theory (CAST) is an interdisciplinary program designed to provide a dynamic graduate experience within an intimate intellectual community. This 12-month program encourages students from diverse academic backgrounds to explore contemporary social and cultural issues. Students will enhance their knowledge, develop advanced research and communication skills, and engage in critical inquiry that transcends traditional academic boundaries. The program emphasizes a supportive, student-centered environment, fostering discussions that address social justice and cultural differences.

 

Program Structure

The MA in Cultural Analysis and Social Theory is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of contemporary culture and society through various interdisciplinary perspectives. The program offers two options for students:

  • Coursework Option: Involves taking core courses and five electives from CAST and other complementary MA programs.
  • Major Research Project Option: Includes core courses and a major research project under faculty supervision, along with three electives.

The program is designed to be completed in 12 months and is structured around three inter-related fields of inquiry:

  • Globalization, Identity and Social Movements
  • Body Politics: Gender, Sexuality and Embodiment
  • Cultural Representation and Social Theory

Students will benefit from engaging with scholars involved in cutting-edge research and will have opportunities to participate in professional development activities, including workshops and research talks.

 

Featured Experiences

  • Professional development through a program colloquium, including advanced research workshops and teaching workshops.
  • Participation in research group activities, including organizing international and local conferences.
  • Opportunities to work on grant-funded projects with faculty members.
  • Encouragement of non-traditional research projects that address social justice and cultural differences.
  • Access to research assistantships that allow students to collaborate closely with faculty on specific projects.

 

Career Options

Graduates of the MA in Cultural Analysis and Social Theory can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

  • Social Policy Researcher/Advisor: Conducts research and provides insights on social policies affecting communities.
  • Cultural Research Assistant/Associate: Supports research initiatives in cultural studies and analysis.
  • Arts/Culture Critic: Analyzes and critiques cultural productions, contributing to public discourse on arts and culture.
  • Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Consultant: Advises organizations on best practices for promoting diversity and inclusion.
  • Humanitarian Aid Worker/Administrator: Works with organizations to provide support and resources to communities in need.
  • Museum/Gallery Curator: Manages collections and exhibitions, engaging the public with cultural artifacts.
  • College/University Instructor: Teaches courses in cultural studies, social theory, and related fields.
  • Writer/Journalist/Editor: Produces written content for various media, focusing on cultural and social issues.
  • Community Development Coordinator: Works to enhance community engagement and development initiatives.

 

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