Film Studies

The Film Studies programme at the University of Southampton offers students the opportunity to explore the rich and diverse world of cinema, combining critical analysis with practical understanding of film production and history. This interdisciplinary course is designed to develop students’ analytical skills, enabling them to interpret films from various genres, periods, and cultural contexts. Throughout the programme, students engage with a wide range of film theories, critical approaches, and technological developments that have shaped the industry over the decades.

Undergraduate students will study modules covering topics such as the history of cinema, theories of film interpretation, film aesthetics, and genre analysis. They will also gain hands-on experience in film production through practical modules that include scriptwriting, editing, and directing, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the filmmaking process. The programme encourages students to critically assess the social, political, and cultural impacts of film, examining how cinema reflects and influences society globally.

The university’s strong links to the creative industries provide valuable opportunities for internships, industry projects, and networking events, giving students a competitive edge in the future job market. The programme also emphasizes developing professional skills such as teamwork, communication, and digital literacy, preparing graduates for careers across media, broadcasting, film, and digital content creation.

With access to state-of-the-art facilities, including editing suites, screening rooms, and dedicated film production spaces, students have the resources necessary to bring their ideas to life. Throughout their studies, students are supported by experienced academic staff who are active researchers and practitioners in the field. The programme culminates in a dissertation or major project that demonstrates their ability to conduct independent research and produce original work.

Studying Film Studies at Southampton provides a compelling blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, empowering students to analyze, understand, and create compelling visual narratives. Graduates leave equipped with a broad skill set and a critical perspective that opens doors to careers in filmmaking, television, digital media, academia, and beyond.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 14660 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

You can select from a wide range of innovative modules. Alongside knowledge of the critical theoretical debates in film studies, you can develop practical skills, such as film-making. You have the option to take 25 per cent of your programme in an alternative subject.Year one offers a grounding in how to read film, covering key debates in film theory and cinema history.Specialist practical option modules in years two and three in documentary film making or scriptwriting.Individually supervised dissertation on a topic of your choice in year three

Typical course content

• Popular film genres
• Film aesthetics
• Cinema pre-history
• Critical theories, cultural history
• World cinema
• Hollywood
• European film
• Cinematography
• Professional practice
• Creative writing/screenwriting

Innovation modules outside of your subject area

Our Curriculum Innovation Programme offers you the chance to take optional modules outside of your chosen subject area. This allows you to personalise your education, to develop new skills and knowledge for your future. Modules range from "Living and working on the web" to "Business skills for employability".

Learn a language

Some of our courses also give you the option of taking a language module, which can count towards your degree. These modules cover ten languages and range from absolute beginner to near-native speaker level.

Requirements

A Levels:

AAB to ABB including an essay writing subject

or

ABB including an essay writing subject and A in Extended Project Qualification

We do not accept General Studies.

IB:

34 or 32 points overall, 17 or 16 at higher level including an essay writing subject

International Foundation Year

International students who do not currently meet our entry requirements may be able to join this course on successful completion of our International Foundation Year. For more information visit the IFY course page

Selection process:

Intake: 50 Average applicants per place: 6

UCAS application and some interviews

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 Southampton.

Film Studies at the University of Southampton offers students a comprehensive exploration of the history, theory, and practice of cinema. The program emphasizes critical analysis and encourages students to engage with diverse film genres, movements, and methodologies. Through theoretical coursework, practical projects, and critical essays, students develop a nuanced understanding of cinematic language, aesthetics, and cultural contexts. The curriculum covers key areas such as film history, genre analysis, auteur studies, documentary filmmaking, and digital media. Students also have opportunities to examine the socio-political impact of film and explore contemporary issues in the industry, including representation, globalization, and technological transformation. Practical components may include film production, editing, and screenwriting, providing hands-on experience to complement theoretical learning. The program is designed to foster critical thinking, creative expression, and an understanding of the role of film in society. It prepares graduates for careers in media production, film criticism, curation, or further academic research. The University of Southampton boasts world-class facilities, including state-of-the-art film studios and editing suites, and benefits from strong industry links that can facilitate internships and collaborative projects. Students are encouraged to participate in film festivals, screenings, and seminars, enriching their academic experience and professional network. The program typically spans three years for an undergraduate degree, with options for joint honours or specializations within the broader field of media and communication. Overall, the Film Studies program at Southampton provides a rigorous and dynamic environment for students passionate about understanding and contributing to the world of cinema.