BA (Hons) Film Studies, University of Essex

Course Overview

Film studies provide a deeper understanding of the art of cinema, allowing you to analyse and appreciate films on a more critical level. Additionally, studying film can enhance your cultural awareness and broaden your perspective on different societies and historical contexts. If you love watching movies and want to explore the intricacies of storytelling through film, then film studies can offer you a comprehensive education in the medium. By delving into the techniques and theories behind filmmaking, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the craft and develop a discerning eye for cinematic excellence. 

The BA (Hons) Film Studies, University of Essex combines studying the history and theory of cinema with practical film production, so you don't just critically examine cinema – you create it. You will have the opportunity to explore film across a broad range of genres, time periods, and regions, from Hollywood, world and independent cinema, to documentaries and television. Simultaneously, you gain hands-on experience in film production and production management, essential for careers in the film and television industry.

This programme, offered under IACT’s UK Transfer Degree (Media & Communication) offers a comprehensive curriculum that blends essential theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing you for the challenges of the modern world. Taught by a global creative faculty, this programme allows you to spend 2 years at IACT and 1 year in the UK.

Learning Outcomes

• Gain hands-on experience of camera work, sound recording, editing, lighting, and scriptwriting
• Explore the formal aesthetics of film composition and structure in relation to different contexts of production and reception
• Discover the history and social significance of film as a global medium
• Understand the links between critical analysis and creative practice
• Produce both group films and personal projects