Postgraduate Courses in The Ashworth Program in Social Theory
The information contained in this and linked pages was correct at the time of publication. Please check the web version for the latest updated information at http://www.arts.unimelb.edu.au/futurestudents/programs/. Authorised by the General Manager, Faculty of Arts 2007
The internationally recognised Ashworth Program hosts a vibrant academic community of dedicated scholars with a diverse range of research interests and knowledge in social theory. The program hosts conferences, colloquia and seminars on a regular basis. It attracts eminent scholars to Melbourne as visiting Research Fellows and boasts a distinguished list of international associates of the program, including an annual distinguished visitor who gives the Readings Bookshop annual public lecture in social theory. Postgraduate students receive enthusiastic support and are encouraged to become active contributors to the academic and social life of the program. A variety of career pathways are available to graduates in social theory, drawing on the highly transferable skills of critical analysis and substantial research knowledge gained in this area of study.
Postgraduate study in social theory provides an interdisciplinary perspective that investigates the everyday assumptions that shape our lives. It reflects in a systematic and critical manner on the ways in which social life is organised and, sometimes, transformed. The postgraduate program provides a context where the theoretical and substantive issues raised in other disciplines may be critically examined and further explored. This makes social theory an appropriate choice for students with an interest in the adequacy of the descriptions, analyses and critiques which prevail in any of the social or human sciences. Students who have not studied social theory at an undergraduate level are provided with articulated points of entry to postgraduate courses in this exciting and challenging field of inquiry.
Coursework programs:
Graduate Certificate in Arts (Social Theory)
Graduate Diploma in Arts (Social Theory)
Postgraduate Certificate in Arts (Social Theory)
Postgraduate Diploma in Arts (Social Theory)
Master of Arts in Social Theory (advanced seminar and shorter thesis)
Master of Arts in Social Theory (thesis only)
Facilities and resources:
Postgraduate students are valued members of the university community and are encouraged to participate fully in the intellectual and social life of the faculty.
Postgraduate students receive high standards of support services from the moment of their arrival at the University of Melbourne. Induction programs and orientation activities assist the transition to a stimulating environment of challenging academic study and explain the extensive study and support facilities. Many Schools support active postgraduate associations as well as student participation in faculty committees and the development of school postgraduate policy. The schools, institutes, and centres of the faculty all conduct regular research seminars presented by invited scholars, staff and students. Postgraduates are invited to play an active role in the organisation and conduct of seminar programs and conference activities.
The Faculty of Arts attracts research students of the highest potential. Students undertaking higher degree research (Masters by Research and PhD) receive supervision from leading academics in their field and are often able to participate in well-resourced projects. Telephone access is available for research purposes according to School guidelines and after hours access to buildings can be arranged. General School facilities include common rooms, photocopying and printing, dial-in computer access, stationery and vouchers for interlibrary loans. Access is provided for PhD students to competitive funding allocations for attendance at conferences, fieldwork and for data collection purposes. Opportunities also exist in many Schools for research students to gain valuable teaching and tutoring experience while undertaking research of their own.
Specific details of SSEE facilities and resources include:
Postgraduate computer room
Research degree students have after hours access to postgraduate computer room. The rooms contain PC and Macintosh computers and are available to research students on a 'first come, first served' basis.
Student association
The School of Social and Environmental Enquiry supports the activities of the social theory postgraduate association. A number of events are planned during the year, both jointly and separately. The School staff room is also open to postgraduates.
For more information about the Social Theory Postgraduate Association please click here.
Seminar Series
Postgraduates are encouraged to attend School seminars; details are posted on the seminar noticeboards. The Ashworth Program encourages postgraduates to become involved in the publication of the interdisciplinary journal, Critical Horizons.
School Library
The School Library is located in room 159, Old Arts Building, and is available for staff and research student use.
The Graduate Centre
The School of Graduate Studies is another important provider of academic enrichment activities and facilities for postgraduate students. Students are encouraged to subscribe to the email bulletin service, GradFlash, which highlights social events, conference details and funding opportunities. The Graduate Centre, located in the historic 1888 Building, provides access to fully integrated computer, multimedia and publishing resources. A variety of versatile study, seminar and function rooms are available and seminar programs are designed to assist students with skills development and career and research opportunities. The University of Melbourne Postgraduate Association also provides students with a range of support services and strong representation and advocacy on a range of matters concerning postgraduate students.