American Studies with Film (3 years)

American Studies with Film (3 years) at the University of Essex offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary exploration of American culture, history, society, and its cinematic expressions. This programme is designed for students interested in understanding the complex social, political, and cultural developments that have shaped the United States, alongside a detailed study of American film, one of the most influential cinematic traditions worldwide. Throughout the three-year course, students will engage with a diverse curriculum that covers American history, literature, politics, popular culture, and film studies, enabling them to critically analyze American identity, values, and global influence. The programme emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and academic writing, preparing students for careers in media, cultural analysis, academia, or international relations. Students will have the opportunity to study key themes such as race, ethnicity, gender, and social change through both historical and contemporary lenses, with a particular focus on how film functions as a reflection and driver of societal values and transformations. The programme includes lectures, seminars, screenings, and independent research projects, encouraging active participation and debates on current issues faced by America. In addition, students can benefit from the university’s strong links with industry professionals and cultural institutions, enhancing practical understanding and employability. With access to extensive resources, including the university’s film archives and American Studies research centres, students will gain a rich, immersive learning experience. Upon graduation, students will possess a nuanced understanding of American society and its cinematic landscape, equipping them with skills highly valued in sectors such as media, journalism, public policy, education, and international organizations. This degree prepares graduates not only for a variety of careers but also for further postgraduate study in related fields.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 11950 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

Our courses are characterised by choice and flexibility. Studying at Essex is about discovering yourself, so your course combines compulsory ('core') and optional modules to ensure you gain key knowledge in the discipline while having as much freedom as possible to explore your own interests. Our modules change from year to year in response to new developments and innovation, but our module directory can show you which modules are available to our current students.

Example structure

Because of our interdisciplinary approach, many of our courses offer a wide selection of available modules, often including options from departments other than your own. Your course content will therefore depend on your own unique interests, but the structure below gives an example of what’s available to you.

Year 1

• The Enlightenment
• Introduction to US - Literature
• Introduction to US – History
• Introduction to US - Politics
• Introduction to US – Sociology
• Introduction to Film

Year 2

• American Studies 2nd year Seminar
• Social Entrepreneurs, Sustainability and Community Action
• Doing Research for a BA Dissertation
• The Special Relationship? Anglo-American Relations 1850-2005
• Narrative and Film

Year 3

• American Society: Ethnic Encounters in the Making of the USA
• Dangerous Ideas : Essays and Manifestos as Social Criticism
• The American Presidency
• American Documentary and Film

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

• A-levels: ABB-BBB, including A-level subjects which require demonstration of essay writing skills
• GCSE English: C
• IB: 32-30 points (we consider IB certificates at the Higher level on a case-by-case basis)
• Achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 6 level three credits at distinction and the remainder at merit (or above) or achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 45 level three credits at merit (or above).

English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 6.0 overall with minimum 5.5 in each component (or equivalent). Different requirements apply for second year entry.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Essex.

Funding

For up-to-date information on funding opportunities at the University of Essex please visit: www.essex.ac.uk/funding.

American Studies with Film at the University of Essex is a comprehensive undergraduate degree programme designed to explore the complex social, cultural, and political landscape of the United States through interdisciplinary approaches. Spanning three years, this programme combines the core disciplines of American Studies — including history, literature, politics, and cultural studies — with a specialized focus on film and visual culture. Students will engage with a diverse curriculum that offers both theoretical frameworks and practical analysis, aiming to provide a deep understanding of America's diverse narratives, identities, and societal changes over time.

Throughout the course, students will examine major themes such as race, ethnicity, gender, popular culture, and media representation, all within the context of American history and contemporary society. The film component adds a distinctive dimension, enabling students to critically analyze American films, documentaries, and media texts, understanding their role in shaping American identity and influencing perceptions both domestically and globally. The programme also offers opportunities for students to develop practical skills in media analysis, film production, and digital storytelling.

Academic staff at Essex are experienced in American and film studies, providing expert guidance and fostering a vibrant learning environment. The programme includes lectures, seminars, workshops, and project work, encouraging active participation and collaborative learning. Students may also have the opportunity to study abroad, participate in internships, or engage with external media organizations, enhancing their practical experience and employability.

Graduates of the programme are well-equipped for careers in media, journalism, public relations, cultural industries, or further postgraduate research. The university’s facilities include well-equipped media labs and access to extensive digital archives, supporting students throughout their studies. Overall, American Studies with Film at Essex offers a dynamic and in-depth exploration of American culture, supported by a multidisciplinary approach, fostering critical thinking, media literacy, and cultural awareness.