Philosophy and Film

The BA (Hons) Philosophy and Film programme at the University of Dundee offers students a unique interdisciplinary education that combines critical thinking, artistic understanding, and cultural analysis. This innovative degree is designed to equip students with a broad range of transferable skills including analytical reasoning, effective communication, and an appreciation of diverse cultural perspectives. Throughout the course, students will explore fundamental philosophical questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and aesthetics, while also engaging deeply with the history and theory of film as a visual art form. The programme aims to foster a deep understanding of philosophical traditions alongside the ability to critically analyze films, genres, and cinematic movements from around the world. Students will examine topics such as the nature of reality, the mind-body problem, moral philosophy, and political theory, while also studying film theory, criticism, and production techniques. The curriculum includes a mix of lectures, seminars, practical workshops, and independent research projects, encouraging active participation and intellectual curiosity. In addition, students will develop essential digital literacy skills and gain practical experience in media production and analysis, preparing them for a wide range of careers in media, education, arts management, or further academic research. The programme benefits from the university’s experienced faculty members who are actively involved in research and industry, providing mentorship and industry connections that enhance students’ learning experience. The University of Dundee's vibrant campus community offers students opportunities for extracurricular activities, film screenings, philosophical debates, and networking events. Graduates of the programme will be well-equipped to understand and interpret complex philosophical ideas and cinematic works, making them valuable contributors in fields that demand critical insight, cultural literacy, and creative thinking. The BA (Hons) Philosophy and Film programme is ideal for students passionate about exploring the fundamental questions of human existence while engaging with the dynamic world of modern cinema.

Programme Content for Philosophy and Film at the University of Dundee

The Philosophy and Film programme at the University of Dundee offers students a unique opportunity to explore the rich intersections between philosophical ideas and cinematic expression. This interdisciplinary degree is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a comprehensive understanding of both philosophical concepts and film theory. Throughout the course, students will analyze classic and contemporary films, examining their aesthetic, ideological, and cultural dimensions, while also engaging with fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, morality, and the human condition.

The first year provides an introduction to core philosophical topics, including ethics, epistemology, metaphysics, and political philosophy. Simultaneously, students will be introduced to film studies, covering the history of cinema, film genres, and key theories of visual storytelling. This foundational year ensures students gain essential skills in critical analysis, writing, and research methods, which are vital for advanced study.

In the second year, the programme deepens students' understanding of philosophy, exploring areas such as philosophy of mind, philosophy of language, and aesthetics. The film component expands to include studies of film genres, narrative structures, and the socio-cultural impact of cinema. Students will engage with philosophical questions raised by film, such as the nature of perception, representation, and reality, and will analyze films through various theoretical lenses, including feminist, psychoanalytic, and Marxist perspectives.

The third year emphasizes specialization and independent research. Students undertake modules that allow them to focus on particular philosophical topics or film areas of interest, such as existentialist cinema, film noir, or contemporary ethical issues. The program culminates in a substantial dissertation, where students employ philosophical reasoning to analyze a film or set of films, demonstrating their ability to integrate theoretical knowledge and critical skills.

Throughout the programme, students have opportunities to participate in practical film workshops, attend guest lectures by industry professionals and scholars, and engage in film screenings and philosophical debates. This vibrant academic environment fosters a deeper appreciation of how philosophical inquiry can illuminate cinematic art and vice versa, preparing graduates for careers in academia, media, arts, and cultural sectors.

Program requirements for Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Film at the University of Dundee typically include a combination of core modules, optional modules, and assessment components designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and skills in both disciplines. Students are expected to undertake foundational courses in philosophy such as epistemology, ethics, logic, and the history of philosophy, which establish a solid theoretical framework. Concurrently, the film component involves studying film history, theory, and practical skills in filmmaking and analysis. To progress to advanced levels, students usually select optional modules that may include areas like aesthetics, digital filmmaking, screenwriting, and contemporary philosophical issues. A significant part of the program involves critical thinking, essay writing, and film analysis, cultivating analytical and communication skills vital for careers in academia, media, and the arts. Assessment methods comprise a mix of essays, presentations, and practical coursework, with some modules including examinations. Students are often required to undertake a dissertation or a major project that synthesizes their learning from both areas, demonstrating research skills and original thought. Entry requirements typically include a strong academic record and may specify past study in relevant subjects. Throughout the program, students receive support from academic advisors and access to film equipment, philosophy journals, and library resources to facilitate independent research and project development. The program aims to produce graduates with a nuanced understanding of philosophical discourse and film studies, prepared for diverse professional pathways or postgraduate study.

The University of Dundee offers a range of financing options for students enrolled in the Philosophy and Film programmes to support their academic journey. Funding opportunities include a variety of scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid schemes designed to assist both domestic and international students. National students may be eligible for government funding such as Student Loans and Grants provided by the Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS), which cover tuition fees and living costs depending on individual circumstances and residency status. International students are encouraged to explore scholarships offered directly by the university or external funding bodies, which can provide partial or full coverage of tuition fees. The university’s financial support services provide detailed guidance on application procedures and eligibility criteria, helping students secure the necessary funds. Additionally, part-time work opportunities are available on campus, enabling students to earn income while studying. Some programmes may also have specific scholarships aimed at students pursuing degrees in humanities, including Philosophy and Film, which reward academic achievement, artistic talent, or financial need. Students are advised to review the university’s official website and contact the admissions and funding offices early in their application process to ensure they meet all scholarship application deadlines and prepare required documentation. It is important for prospective students to comprehensively plan their finances for tuition, accommodation, books, and personal expenses, and to consider external funding options such as private loans or family support. The university actively encourages applications for funding and supports students through advisory services to identify suitable financial assistance aligned with their educational and personal needs.

Accreditation

Professional Accreditation: Society of Archivists

We're an established university with a progressive and dynamic outlook. Our international reputation attracts top-class students and academics from across the world, with well over 100 countries represented in the University community.

The University of Dundee is:

* Ranked in the World's Top 200 Universities, and in Europe's Top 90 by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2013/14.
* Ranked in the World's Top 220 Universities and ranked 55th in the World for Life Sciences and Medicine by the QS World University Rankings 2013.
* Ranked 7th in the World and 2nd in the UK for Overall Satisfaction in the 2013 International Student Barometer (ISB) survey of EU and international students.