Film Studies (Placement Year) BA Hons

Let's delve into the experiential learning opportunities that make the Film Studies (Placement Year) BA Hons (P304) at Lancaster University a standout choice for aspiring filmmakers and media professionals.

🎬 Real-World Experience at Lancaster

At Lancaster, the Placement Year is a core component of your degree, offering you a full year of professional experience between your second and final year. This immersive opportunity allows you to apply your academic knowledge in real-world settings, enhancing your employability and providing invaluable industry insights.

🔧 Facilities and Tools

Lancaster University provides state-of-the-art facilities and resources to support your practical learning:

• Cutting-Edge Film Equipment: Access to industry-standard tools, including Blackmagic 4K cameras, ensuring you have the best equipment to bring your creative visions to life.

• Editing Suites: 24/7 access to professional editing suites, allowing you to work on your projects at your convenience.

• BFI Player Access: Free access to the British Film Institute's extensive library, offering a wealth of British, world, and classic films, along with workshops and masterclasses.

• The Dukes Cinema: Engage with community screenings and events at The Dukes Cinema, providing a platform to showcase your work and connect with the local film community.

🧠 Academic and Practical Integration

The curriculum is designed to blend theoretical knowledge with practical skills:

• First Year: Introduction to film studies, media, and culture, with practical filmmaking experience, covering aspects like cinematography, editing, sound, and performance.

• Second Year: Exploration of global cinema, genre, gender, aesthetics, and digital cultures, with opportunities to develop technical and storytelling skills through hands-on experience.

• Final Year: Completion of an independent research project, evaluating critical debates on global media, visual culture, and emerging digital futures, with optional modules in experimental cinema, documentary filmmaking, and professional film industry practices.

🌍 Placement Year: Bridging Theory and Practice

The Placement Year serves as a pivotal transition from academic learning to professional application:

• Industry Experience: Work with industry professionals, gaining firsthand experience in film production, distribution, or other related fields.

• Skill Development: Enhance your technical skills and industry knowledge, making you a competitive candidate in the job market.

• Networking Opportunities: Build connections with professionals and organizations, opening doors to future career opportunities.

Embarking on the Film Studies (Placement Year) BA Hons (P304) at Lancaster University offers a comprehensive blend of academic rigor and practical experience, setting you on a path to success in the dynamic world of film and media. 

Graduates of the Film Studies (Placement Year) BA Hons at Lancaster University are well-prepared for dynamic roles in the creative industries.

They often pursue careers in:

• Film Production

• Media Marketing

• Advertising

• Arts Administration

This program offers a comprehensive understanding of cinema's cultural and political significance, combined with practical filmmaking skills. Students engage in film production modules, experimenting with narrative films and documentaries, and have opportunities to showcase their work in public exhibitions. 

University Support & Industry Connections:

• Employability Services: Lancaster University provides tailored employability support through The Lancaster Award, helping students develop work experience, career development, and social skills.

• Industry Partnerships: The university collaborates with various industry partners, offering students opportunities to engage with professionals and gain practical experience.

• Accreditation: The program's long-term accreditation ensures that the degree remains relevant and respected in the industry.

• Graduation Outcomes: Graduates have a strong track record in securing employment in the creative industries, with many entering roles in advertising, marketing, media production, and arts administration.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing the Film Studies (Placement Year) BA Hons, graduates can pursue postgraduate degrees in related fields such as Film Studies, Media Studies, or Arts Management. Additionally, the skills and experience gained during the placement year provide a solid foundation for vocational training in media-related professions, including broadcast and print journalism.