This course aims to orientate students towards the realities of working within the contemporary cultural industries. It will combine current academic perspectives with the experience of relevant guest speakers, drawn from across the sector, to provide a comprehensive overview of and critical insight into the evolving practices and dynamics of cultural production, and will address the particular challenges and opportunities facing those engaged in the creative sector.

Weekly lectures (2 hours) and seminars (1 hour)

None

 None

Two formally assessed 3000 word written assignments, each worth 40%, developing different writing skills - one submitted mid-semester and the second at the end of the semester: one 3000 word academic essay assignment on topical and/or theoretical aspects of cultural production practice; one 3000 word industry orientated report with critical reflection.

One short individual presentation (10 minutes) worth 20%. 

This course aims to:

■ provide a comprehensive overview of and critical insight into the contemporary issues affecting the cultural and creative sector.

■ develop student knowledge and understanding of the evolving practices and dynamics of cultural production, in both local and global contexts.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ evaluate emerging models for doing business and creating culture within the creative sector;

■ explain and analyse market conditions, policy factors and labour relations affecting the development of creative and cultural enterprises;

■ critically discuss the opportunities, challenges and ethical issues presented by the contemporary cultural and creative sector.

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.