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The Film Studies BA at Royal Holloway explores cinema’s power to shape culture, helping students develop critical thinking, analytical, and creative skills. This program is ideal for those passionate about film, storytelling, and media, offering insight into global cinema from Hollywood to Bollywood.
Curriculum Structure:
Year 1:
Students begin with Introduction to Media Histories 1, gaining a broad understanding of film, television, video games, and digital media histories. Critical Theory and Textual Analysis develops the ability to interpret films through multiple critical lenses, while Screen Narrative: Theory and Practice introduces creative screenwriting and narrative construction, allowing students to adapt stories into short screenplays.
Year 2:
The second year deepens theoretical knowledge and practical skills, including exploring key film movements, genres, and directors. Students engage with advanced media analysis and may begin creative projects that combine theory and practice, such as longer screenplays or collaborative media productions.
Year 3:
In the final year, students focus on a dissertation or a substantial creative project, applying critical and practical skills to a topic of their choice. Modules encourage independent research, industry placements, and exploration of contemporary cinema trends, preparing graduates for professional roles or further study.
Focus Areas: Film history, theory and criticism, screenwriting, global cinema, media culture, creative practice
Learning Outcomes: Develop critical analysis, creative storytelling, research skills, industry awareness, and the ability to evaluate cinema’s cultural impact
Professional Alignment (Accreditation): Taught by BAFTA-winning researchers; strong industry links and placement opportunities
Reputation (Employability Rankings): Media Arts Department ranked 7th in the UK for research excellence (REF2021); graduates pursue careers in film, media, publishing, marketing, and academia
At Royal Holloway, University of London, BA Film Studies is designed to immerse students in both the theory and practice of cinema. Here, you won’t just study films—you’ll actively engage with the creative and analytical tools that shape the medium. From screenwriting to exploring audience responses, the program ensures that students gain practical experience alongside critical understanding. With access to state-of-the-art facilities, supportive faculty, and strong industry connections, you’ll have the environment to experiment, create, and refine your skills. Experiential learning is at the heart of the program, offering opportunities to apply your knowledge in meaningful ways:
Practical Screenwriting Projects: Create original scripts and adapt stories into short screenplays to explore narrative techniques firsthand.
Industry Placements: Gain real-world experience with opportunities to work within the film and media industry.
Hands-on Workshops: Participate in workshops that develop technical skills and creative problem-solving.
Research and Dissertation: Conduct in-depth research on topics of your choice, using Royal Holloway’s extensive Library and archives.
Group Projects: Collaborate with peers on creative and analytical projects to simulate professional film production environments.
Digital Tools & Software: Access to industry-standard software for screenwriting, editing, and media analysis.
Field Trips & Networking Events: Engage with the broader film community through trips, guest lectures, and networking sessions.
Media Arts Facilities: Work in dedicated spaces designed for research, production, and experimentation, supported by faculty who are BAFTA winners and published authors.
This combination of practical, research, and industry-focused learning ensures that every student leaves ready to make their mark in the world of film and media.
Future Progression & Opportunities:
Graduates of the Film Studies BA at Royal Holloway University of London leave ready to engage in dynamic careers that blend critical thinking, creativity, and cultural insight. Many pursue roles such as film critic, content producer, archive curator, or production assistant:
University Support: The Royal Holloway Careers Service offers tailored employability advice, internship placements, and networking events with industry professionals.
Employment Stats & Salary: A high percentage of graduates secure roles within six months, with typical starting salaries ranging from £22,000–£30,000 depending on the role.
Industry Partnerships: Strong connections with BAFTA, media production companies, and cultural institutions provide placement opportunities and collaborative projects.
Accreditation Value: The degree is recognized across the UK and internationally, supporting careers in film, media, and cultural sectors.
Graduation Outcomes: Alumni successfully enter media, publishing, marketing, education, and cultural management, combining analytical and creative expertise.
Further Academic Progression:
Students can continue their studies through postgraduate programs in Film Studies, Media Arts, or related fields, including MA degrees in Film, Screenwriting, or Media Production, further enhancing their research and practical skills.
A Levels: ABB-BBBIB: 6,5,5 at Higher Level OR with a minimum of 32 points overall.At least five GCSE passes at grade A*-C or 9-4, including English and Mathematics.IELTS: 6.5 overall. Writing 7.0. No other subscore lower than 5.5.TOEFL iBT: 88 overall, with Reading 18 Listening 17 Speaking 20 Writing 26.For Indian Applicants: 80% overall in your Higher Secondary School Certificate with a grade 85% in any subject specified.For US Applicants: Associate Degree with a GPA of at least 3.0; OR Grade of 4 in at least two relevant AP Examinations; OR Composite score of 24 in the ACT with an AP grade 4; OR College Class B in any A-level subject specified; OR SAT 1100 with an AP grade 4.Film criticScreenwriterFilm directorProducerCinematographerEditorFilm programmerArchivistMedia researcherProduction assistantContent creatorScript analystFilm festival coordinatorMarketing & publicity officerDocumentary filmmaker
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Royal Holloway University of London
