Film and Literature

The Film and Literature program at the University of York offers students the opportunity to explore the dynamic relationship between cinematic art and literary tradition through an interdisciplinary curriculum. This degree aims to develop a comprehensive understanding of the historical, theoretical, and practical aspects of film and literature, fostering critical analysis, creative thinking, and scholarly research skills. Students will engage with a broad range of texts, spanning classic and contemporary literature, as well as diverse cinematic works from different periods and regions. The program emphasizes the way stories are told across different media and how film and literature influence each other, providing insights into cultural, social, and political contexts.

Throughout the course, students will participate in lectures, seminars, screenings, and workshops led by experts in both fields. They will analyze themes, narrative techniques, and visual styles, as well as explore questions related to adaptation, genre, representation, and audience reception. The program encourages independent research and original thinking, culminating in a dissertation that synthesizes students’ interests and academic pursuits. Furthermore, students have access to the University of York’s extensive resources, including specialized libraries, film archives, and study facilities, supporting a vibrant academic environment.

The interdisciplinary approach of the program prepares graduates for careers in education, media, publishing, arts administration, and cultural analysis, among others. It also provides a solid foundation for postgraduate study or research in cinema studies, literary criticism, or related fields. The University of York’s Film and Literature program is designed for students passionate about storytelling and keen to deepen their understanding of how films and literature shape and reflect human experiences across different cultures and epochs.

The Film and Literature program at the University of York offers students a comprehensive exploration of the relationships between cinematic and literary arts, emphasizing critical analysis, theoretical understanding, and practical engagement with both media. Throughout this degree, students will examine a wide range of films and literary texts from diverse periods and cultural contexts, fostering a deep appreciation of how stories are told and understood across different mediums. The curriculum is designed to develop advanced skills in textual analysis, interpretation, and contextual research, enabling students to critically evaluate the ways in which literature and film intersect, influence, and reflect societal changes.

The program covers core areas such as film history, genres, and auteur studies, alongside literary genres, narrative techniques, and thematic analysis. Students will engage with theoretical frameworks including film theory, literary theory, and cultural studies, which will underpin their analytical skills and enable them to interpret complex texts more effectively. Practical components include screenwriting, film production, and literary analysis workshops, giving students hands-on experience in creating and examining texts. Additionally, the program encourages independent research, critical thinking, and academic writing, preparing graduates for careers in media, publishing, education, or further postgraduate study.

Lectures are complemented by seminars, film screenings, and discussions to foster a collaborative learning environment. The program also benefits from the university’s extensive resources, including specialized archives, libraries, and film collections, providing students with access to a wealth of materials for research and project development. Students will have opportunities to participate in internships, creative projects, and conferences, enhancing their professional portfolios. By the end of the program, graduates will possess a nuanced understanding of how literature and cinemaoperate as cultural artifacts and artistic expressions, along with the skills necessary to analyze and create engaging narrative works across multiple platforms.

A comprehensive understanding of Film and Literature at the University of York encompasses a diverse range of modules and prerequisites designed to develop students' analytical, critical, and creative skills. Prospective students are expected to hold a relevant academic qualification that demonstrates proficiency in English language and literature. Prior study of media studies, literary analysis, or film studies at pre-university level is advantageous but not mandatory. Applicants are encouraged to submit a personal statement outlining their interest in the interdisciplinary study of film and literature, along with academic transcripts. The program requires students to complete a series of core modules in film theory, narrative analysis, and literary critique, complemented by optional modules allowing specialization in areas such as contemporary cinema, literary genres, or cultural studies.
Students are expected to participate actively in seminars, workshops, and practical exercises designed to foster critical thinking and interpretive skills. A significant component involves independent research projects, culminating in essays and presentations that demonstrate an understanding of the interplay between visual media and literary texts. The program also emphasizes the development of writing and communication skills, ensuring students can articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively. Assessment methods include essays, portfolio submissions, presentations, and examinations, which together evaluate a student's analytical ability, originality, and depth of understanding. To graduate with a degree in Film and Literature, students must pass all required modules and achieve the minimum overall grade stipulated by the university, typically a lower second class honours or higher. The program is structured to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, preparing graduates for careers in areas such as media production, writing, academia, or cultural advocacy.

The university offers a range of financing options for students enrolled in the Film and Literature program at the University of York. Undergraduate students can apply for government-funded student loans provided by the UK government, which cover tuition fees and living costs. These loans are available to eligible British nationals and EU students meeting certain residency criteria. The student loan scheme offers repayment plans based on income, ensuring that students are not overburdened during their studies and only start repayment when earning above the threshold.

In addition to government loans, students have access to university-specific scholarships and bursaries aimed at supporting students in financial need or those achieving academic excellence. The University of York offers scholarships dedicated to arts and humanities students, which are awarded based on merit or financial circumstances and can significantly reduce the overall cost of education. There are also bursaries that provide financial assistance for students from certain regions or backgrounds, further easing the financial burden.

Part-time work opportunities are available on campus, allowing students to earn supplementary income while studying. The university maintains partnerships with local organizations and employers to facilitate part-time employment tailored to student schedules. Such opportunities not only provide financial support but also enable students to gain professional experience relevant to their degrees.

For postgraduate students, the university offers various funding options including doctoral scholarships, research council funding, and departmental bursaries specific to arts and humanities research. These funding schemes are competitive and require applicants to demonstrate academic excellence and research potential. International students can explore scholarships for international fee-paying students, which are designed to offset higher tuition fees.

Furthermore, the university provides guidance and support through its financial aid office to help students identify the most suitable funding sources and complete application processes efficiently. Students are encouraged to apply early for scholarships and bursaries, and to explore external funding options such as private scholarships and grants from arts foundations or cultural institutions.

Overall, the University of York ensures comprehensive support for Film and Literature students through a variety of financial aid options, enabling students from diverse backgrounds to pursue their academic and creative interests without undue financial hardship.

The University of York offers a comprehensive programme in Film and Literature that explores the intricate relationship between cinematic arts and literary texts. This interdisciplinary degree combines the study of film history, theory, and practice with detailed analysis of literary works, enabling students to understand how stories are told across different mediums and how they influence each other. The programme is designed to equip students with critical thinking skills, cultural awareness, and a deep understanding of narrative structures, visual aesthetics, and thematic exploration. Students will engage with a wide range of films—from classic to contemporary—and literary genres, including fiction, poetry, and drama. The curriculum typically includes modules on film genres, directors, and movements, alongside core literary analysis and historical context. Practical components such as film analysis and production may also be part of the course, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in filmmaking and scriptwriting. The programme emphasizes research skills, encouraging students to undertake independent projects, essays, and dissertations that explore specific topics within film and literature. Through seminars, lectures, and group discussions, students develop a nuanced appreciation for the cultural, political, and social issues reflected in both films and literary works. The university's facilities support this interdisciplinary approach, offering access to film screenings, editing suites, and extensive libraries with dedicated collections in both film and literature. Graduates of the programme have gone on to careers in film criticism, screenwriting, publishing, academia, and media production, demonstrating the practical relevance and depth of the education provided. The programme also benefits from York’s vibrant academic community, with opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and participation in seminars, conferences, and external placements. Overall, the Film and Literature degree at the University of York provides a rich, multi-layered education that encourages critical engagement with visual and literary culture, preparing students for diverse careers or further academic study in the arts and humanities.