Film Studies

This MA takes a distinctive approach by exploring global manifestations of film as a medium (including Hollywood), and examining its cultural, economic, aesthetic and ideological operations. Led by a team of internationally recognised researchers responsible for cuttingedge scholarship, the course offers a highlevel introduction to the discipline’s leading theoretical approaches, as well as a flexible and exciting range of specialised options.

Teaching is through seminars, screenings and tutorials. This is not a practice-based course but an MA that investigates critical, theoretical and historical approaches to the medium.

This MA is for you if you wish to learn more about film, film cultures and film studies:

• you develop high-level skills in research and creative thinking, as well as advanced analytical, organisational and communication abilities by working in rigorous contexts of independent and group study
• you benefit from our expertise in key areas such as global cinema cultures; film, gender and sexuality; history and popular culture
• the course culminates in a supervised dissertation project, where you can investigate a topic of your choice in depth.

Core modules

• Dissertation MA Film Studies
• Film Studies: Theories and Methods

Options

• Activist Media Practice
• Feminism and Film
• First Person Film (MA)
• Global Cinemas
• Global News Industries A
• Independent Chinese Documentary: From the Margins to the Masses
• Interactive Project Development
• Media Histories and Cultural Change
• Media, Culture and Communication
• Music and the Media of Performance (Practice)
• Music and the Media of Performance (Theory)
• New Developments in Digital Media 1a
• New Developments in Digital Media 1b
• Photography: Documentary, Landscape, Politics
• Queering Popular Culture
• Race, Culture and the Media
• Sound Environments (Practice)
• Sound Environments (Theory)
• The Cinematic Body
• The Politics of Promotional Culture
• Writing Documentary: Sound/Image/Text

Requirements

• Magistr or Specialist Diploma with a minimum average mark of at least 4
• A first- or upper second-class undergraduate honours degree in media, film or another discipline in the humanities or social sciences. We also welcome applications from those with relevant professional experience
• IELTS 6.5, with not less than 6.0 in each section.
• Reference
• Transcript
• A personal statement
• The application fee is £13 if you’re applying to just one course

The University of Sussex offers various funding options for students enrolled in the Film Studies programme. Prospective students are encouraged to explore government-funded grants, scholarships, and bursaries available through the university’s financial aid office. The university participates in the UK government’s student loan scheme, allowing eligible students to finance their tuition fees and living costs through student loans drawn from the Student Loans Company. These loans typically cover tuition fees up to a specified limit and provide maintenance support, which can be repaid after graduation based on income levels. Additionally, the university offers its own scholarships, such as the Sussex Excellence Scholarships and subject-specific awards, which provide partial fee waivers or monetary awards to academically outstanding students.

Students are also advised to seek external funding sources, including government grants, charitable trusts, and industry sponsorships related to media and film industries. Some students may be eligible for grants from organizations like the British Film Institute or other arts councils that support aspiring film scholars and practitioners. Part-time work opportunities are available on campus and in the local area, enabling students to supplement their income while studying. The university’s careers service provides resources and guidance on securing part-time employment, internships, and placements within media companies or cultural institutions.

International students should explore specific scholarships designed for international fee-paying students, which can significantly offset the higher tuition costs. The university also offers guidance on applying for external funding from their home countries or international organizations. Financial planning advice and support services are accessible to ensure students can manage their budgets effectively throughout their studies. Overall, the university is committed to providing accessible financial options and comprehensive support to enable students to focus on their academic and creative pursuits in film studies without undue financial stress.

The Film Studies program at the University of Sussex offers students an in-depth exploration of the history, theory, and practice of cinema. Designed for those passionate about film and aspiring to understand its role in culture and society, the program provides a comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of topics including film history, genre analysis, narrative techniques, and critical theory. Students have the opportunity to engage with both classic and contemporary films, developing critical viewing skills and a nuanced understanding of cinematic language. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches and encourages students to consider film within broader social, political, and technological contexts. Practical components may include film analysis, scriptwriting, and production projects, fostering both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience. Additionally, students may benefit from access to relevant facilities such as editing suites and film archives, enhancing their practical skills. The program is suitable for students aiming to pursue careers in film criticism, production, curation, or academia, and prepares graduates for the dynamic media industry. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to participate in film festivals, screenings, and industry events, promoting active engagement with the professional film community. The University of Sussex's supportive academic environment and interdisciplinary approach help students develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and creativity. The program also provides opportunities for study abroad and work placements, enriching the educational experience and broadening career prospects. Overall, the Film Studies course at Sussex nurtures a critical appreciation of cinema as an art form, a social influence, and a valuable medium for storytelling and cultural expression.