Everything you need to know about Black Studies and Global Justice

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Discover the key facts about our new MA in Black Studies and Global Justice including modules, flexible learning, assessments, placements, support, and career pathways in this essential FAQ guide.

How is the course delivered?

The course follows a flexible one-day-a-week intensive delivery model, ideal for students balancing work, placements, or other responsibilities. Teaching includes lectures, seminars, workshops, and online asynchronous content.

What kind of modules will I study?

Modules include topics such as Black Diaspora History, Social Justice Pedagogy, Community Action and Research, Global Health, Intersectional Inequalities, and the Global Black Studies Project.

What types of assessments will I complete?

Assessments include essays, presentations, documentaries, policy briefings, social media campaigns, and a final portfolio. Many assessments include reflective components to encourage personal and professional growth.

What is the final project assessment?

You’ll submit a 9,000-word portfolio documenting your project’s design, implementation, and evaluation. You may also include creative outputs like documentaries or advocacy reports.

What support is available during the course?

You’ll have access to asynchronous learning materials, assessment tutorials, portfolio-building workshops, drop-in support sessions, and guidance from your module leaders and academic advisors.

Black Studies and Global Justice

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Can I get help finding a placement or exchange opportunity?

Yes! BCU’s Careers+ and Volunteering teams, along with your module leader, can help you explore opportunities and prepare for placements or exchanges.

What careers can this course lead to?

Graduates pursue roles in education, policy, advocacy, media, research, NGOs, and community leadership. The course also supports progression to doctoral study.

What skills will I develop?

You’ll gain skills in critical analysis, cultural competency, advocacy, research, communication, and strategic thinking—essential for diverse professional contexts.

What is the Global Black Studies Project?

It’s a 60-credit module in Semester 3 where you design and implement a project focused on racial and social justice. You can choose between community engagement, global cultural exchange, or an optional professional placement.

Is the placement mandatory?

No, placements are optional. You can choose a pathway that best suits your interests and career goals.

How many hours are expected for placements?

A suggested minimum of 30 hours is recommended for placements, but this may vary depending on the host organisation and project scope.

What should you do next?

Come to a Postgraduate Open Day

Come to one of our Postgraduate Open Days to meet our subject academics, find out more about your course in detail and learn more about postgraduate finance.

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Our Postgraduate Guide provides details of all our postgraduate taught and research courses. It also provides information about the research environment at Birmingham City University

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So, you’re interested in applying for postgraduate study? Here’s a step-by-step guide covering all you need to know to apply. Unlike undergraduate degrees where you will apply via UCAS, you can apply straight to the University for a postgraduate degree.

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