The University has announced its partnership with one of Europe’s most influential cultural bodies. The Institute for International Cultural Relations has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Institute for Foreign Cultural Relations (ifa), Germany’s international cultural and educational relations body. The MoU was signed by Professor James Smith, Vice Principal International and by Ronald Grätz, Secretary General of ifa. The Institute for International Cultural Relations Institute for Foreign Cultural Relations (external link) Pioneering online learning One of the first outcomes of the agreement is collaboration on the world’s first online post graduate degree programme in international cultural relations. Beginning in autumn 2017, the MSc in Cultural Relations will examine how culture and education inform and influence international relations, political and social affairs. It will be available in English and potentially German. the MSc in Cultural Relations Developing cultural relations The partnership will promote the sharing of both institutions’ academic knowledge and professional insight to develop the study of international cultural relations. Ifa is home to the world’s largest library on international cultural relations, which will be made available for experts to develop a new field of academic interest and provide a rich resource for policy makers. The University and ifa will also develop proposals for using digital platforms to offer continuing professional development and research to those already working in the field of cultural relations. Institute for Foreign Cultural Relations Founded in 1917, ifa works to connect civil societies, cultural practices, art, media and science. It initiates, moderates and documents discussions on international cultural relations. Its work includes promoting art and cultural exchange in exhibitions, dialogue and conference programs. The Centre for Cultural Relations The Centre for Cultural Relations draws from experts in different areas across the University. It aims to improve understanding of transnational engagements at all levels - from states and diplomats to individuals – and how civil society, businesses, and informal associations are used to share ideas. The Centre is currently investigating the impact of digital communications technologies on cultures and how influence flows across national borders to shape policies, ideas and events. Publication date 18 Jul, 2016
