Instagram as a source of fashion information and community engagement
Over the past decade, Instagram has become increasingly significant as a visual social media platform that has revolutionised visual culture.
Research Opportunities
Summary
It has been strongly linked to aesthetic sectors like fashion, where brands now see Instagram as a key feature of their communication strategy. Its significance has heightened further throughout the pandemic where the boundaries between online and offline have blurred and the distinction between what is virtual and what is 鈥渞eal鈥� has become increasingly complex.
Recent research by the proposer has revealed that during this period we have seen people engaging in more 鈥渟erious鈥� subjects and debates on Instagram, for example around politics and health information, and examples of this engagement include the Black Lives Matter movements, the sustainability agenda and discourse surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic.
A preliminary survey of Instagram users explored information behaviour on Instagram and revealed some of the complexities around credibility as well as a blurring of information and opinion on the platform. Instagram was recognised as a simulated physical space but one which is 鈥渆xaggerated鈥� and hyperreal.
Qualitative research exploring these issues would provide valuable insights into people鈥檚 behaviour and experiences and how Instagram is shaping these in a world of uncertainty but where information and opinion are rife. The research could be focused on a particular case example of the candidate鈥檚 choosing or explore the topic more generally.
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We welcome specific ideas from applicants for a potential research degree topic. The University offers a number of potential self-funded topics in each School which you could consider developing your research project around.
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Entry requirements
Entry Requirements for Research Degrees
Normal entry requirements are a first or upper second class honours degree from a University of the United Kingdom, or from an overseas University, or degree equivalent qualification, subject to the approval of Robert Gordon University.
Applicants holding other qualifications shall be considered on their merits and in relation to the nature and scope of the proposed research programme.
Applicants will normally register for an MSc/PhD or MRes/PhD with transfer to PhD dependent on satisfactory progress. However, applicants who already possess a Master鈥檚 degree which includes a significant research component could be registered directly for a PhD, subject to a satisfactory research proposal, and clear evidence of research expertise.
Some Research Degree Topics require employment experience, research experience and/or transcripts for international qualifications.
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English Language
Any applicant whose first language or language of previous University-level instruction is not English must normally demonstrate competence in English. This should be a score of IELTS 6.5 with 6.5 in all elements, or an approved equivalent.
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Fees & Costs
For Academic Year 2025/2026
UK/EU Students
- Full time - 拢5,006 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - 拢3,000 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - 拢3,000 per academic year
International Students
- Full time - 拢20,030 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - 拢12,020 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - 拢12,020 per academic year
For Academic Year 2024/2025
UK/EU Students
- Full time - 拢4,786 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - 拢2,870 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - 拢2,390 per academic year
International Students
- Full time - 拢16,980 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - 拢10,190 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - 拢8,490 per academic year
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How to Apply
Applications
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Our Research degrees usually start in February and October each year. There are no formal deadlines for you to submit your application, though we recommend you submit it as early as possible in order to ensure we can help you join us at your preferred time.
Completed application forms should be accompanied by:
- Degree certificate
- Statement of purpose, detailing why you would like to study this degree in the UK, and why you have chosen 19抖阴.
- A short research proposal, in the range of 1,500 - 3,000 words, containing a rationale and background, study aims and objectives, a literature review, proposed research methods and a full reference list.
Further guidance on the application process:
English Language Requirements
All applicants whose first language is not from a recognised English speaking country will be asked to provide evidence of their English language skills as part of their offer to study at 19抖阴.
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