Pop Culture: Representation and Consumption (P5096)

15 credits, Level 5

Autumn teaching

On this module, you’ll explore how and why we study popular culture. You’ll study some of the most widely consumed forms of media, and some of the most easily dismissed. With case studies that might include lifestyle media, fashion, reality TV, subcultures, sport and music videos, you’ll gain insights into competing perspectives on a range of popular cultural forms and their audiences.

You’ll develop your knowledge about different theories of:

  • taste
  • power
  • representation
  • everyday life
  • entertainment
  • audiences/consumers.

You’ll leave this module with:

  • an awareness of the complexity and diversity of contemporary popular culture from a range of perspectives
  • a better understanding of the everyday media forms that you consume and enjoy
  • an ability to read and critique popular culture more effectively
  • improved analytical skills
  • a developed ability to communicate your findings to specific audiences.

The module will begin with an introduction to foundational concepts and approaches. You’ll then move through a series of themed case studies and consider their specific language, genre, form, audiences and contexts, in relation to key questions about power, culture and society.

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 153 hours of work. This breaks down into about 34 hours of contact time and about 119 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2026/27. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.

We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.

Courses

This module is offered on the following courses: