What do social activism, New Zealand music, queer-politics, and Koko the talking gorilla have in common? You learn about them in Cultural Studies!
In Cultural Studies, 'culture' is understood broadly, as practice, process and product, but with an emphasis on culture as a site of social and political struggle. When we consider the 'textuality" of culture, traditional distinctions between so-called 'high' and 'low' culture are abandoned: graphic novels, nature documentaries, and street art become significant texts alongside, say, literary fiction or opera.
Cultural Studies is also interdisciplinary, drawing on the perspectives, methods, and theories of numerous fields of study. Our unique programme, is the only one in New Zealand, and our courses are taught by lecturers from more than 15 departments.
Students can mix and match courses, but we also offer four dedicated pathways of study, each comprising courses that help you build a major or pursue an interest in these specific areas: gender and sexuality, Aotearoa New Zealand studies, human-animal studies, and popular and visual culture.
