The University of Northampton offers a BA (Hons) in Film and Screen Studies, a degree targeted towards the students who are interested in studying the history, theory, and cultural impact of film and screen media along with acquiring critical and analytical capabilities as well as the creative ones. The degree balances study in academia with the facility to practice by working on practical projects, giving the students a robust foundation in critical thinking and applied screen work.
Year 1: Core aspects of film theory, narrative, and screen history are explored through modules tracking cinema's development as art form and industry, along with introducing basic analytical tools for film and television analysis. The year establishes solid foundations in critical approaches and introduces different genres, styles, and world views.
Year 2: The second year becomes more specialist in fields such as contemporary film, screen cultures, and debates in film studies. Students learn about the role of audiences, identity, and representation in screen media and have the opportunity to undertake creative projects or optional modules within neighbouring media disciplines.
Year 3: In the last year, advanced study and independent research takes precedence. Students normally produce a dissertation or end research project on a subject of their choice in film or screen culture. Modules on global cinema, new media, and the future of the screen industries are also available. The year is intended to reinforce knowledge already acquired and prepare students for postgraduate research or professional employment.
Curriculum Structure:
The programme combines academic level with industry-informed knowledge of film and media industries. Students learn about:
Film theory and history, including non-US cinema movements and key directors.
Critiques of television, new digital media, and new screen technologies.
Genres, audiences, and representation modules.
Optional practice-focused modules in screenwriting, media production, or other related creative practice fields.
Independent research project or dissertation in final year.
Accreditation:
The BA (Hons) Film and Screen Studies is a completely accredited undergraduate degree validated by the University of Northampton, which means students will graduate with an achievement valued throughout academic and professional communities.
Campus Location:
The course is taught at the Waterside Campus in Northampton. Students have access to modern teaching spaces, screening theatres, digital media hardware, and a vibrant campus community. The location of Northampton also ensures easy access to London and Birmingham, which are the hubs of film, media, and cultural activity.
The course involves engaging the students in taking the classroom learning further through a variety of practical and applied experiences:
Industry Relations and Guest Speakers: Students are regularly addressed by media professionals from industry, television, and film.
Practical Opportunities: Routes to learning through screenwriting, production, or media-related creative practices in addition to theory.
Internships and Work Experience Placements: Assistance with securing placements with media organisations, film festivals, or cultural institutions is available, allowing students to secure a practical experience.
Film Studies and Student-led Initiatives: Students may participate in screenings, debates, or co-creative ventures that bring theory to life.
Study Abroad Experience: Through exchange programmes, students can possibly study film and media abroad.
The University of Northampton provides strong career assistance through its Employability and Careers service, which offers:
Personalized career advice and planning.
CV and portfolio development.
Mock interviews and employability skills sessions.
Networking opportunities and engagement with cultural and creative industries.
Employability:
Graduates in Film and Screen Studies are well-placed for a wide range of careers in the film, television, and creative media industries. The majority are employed in film programming, cultural institutions, publishing, media analysis, teaching, and communications. Some transfer into the wider creative industries where effective analytical and communication abilities are highly sought after.
Further Academic Progression:
Such students who wish to go on for further study usually continue to postgraduate levels in Film Studies, Media Studies, Cultural Studies, or other creative subjects. Some also opt for streams in journalism, screenwriting, or education to further specialize in their area of interest.
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