The Film & Visual Culture and French, MA at the University of Aberdeen offers a unique blend of visual media studies and French language and culture, providing students with both creative and linguistic expertise. This program is ideal for those passionate about cinema, visual arts, and French culture, preparing graduates for careers in creative industries, media, and international fields.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1:
Students build a strong foundation in both visual culture and French, starting with Academic Writing for Language & Literature (AW1008) to hone critical analysis and communication skills. Core modules in French language and culture introduce students to contemporary civilization, cinema, and literature, while Introduction to Film Studies develops analytical skills in visual media.
Year 2:
The focus shifts to more advanced language proficiency and cultural understanding. Students explore French Grammar and Communication, delve deeper into Film History and Theory, and examine European visual culture in context. Coursework emphasizes research, critical thinking, and creative production skills.
Year 3:
Students spend half the year abroad in a French-speaking country, enhancing language fluency and cultural immersion. Modules include Applied French Language, Francophone Studies, and opportunities to work as a teaching assistant or visiting student, combining academic study with practical experience.
Year 4:
Final-year students undertake specialized modules such as Advanced Film Analysis and French Literature Studies, consolidating their expertise. Independent research projects allow students to produce original work in film and visual culture or French studies, preparing them for professional careers or further study.
Focus Areas: Film theory and analysis, visual culture, French language and literature, Francophone studies, digital media production.
Learning Outcomes: Develop critical analysis and research skills in film and visual culture; achieve advanced French language proficiency; gain practical experience through international placement; prepare for careers in creative arts, media, journalism, teaching, and global industries.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation): Recognized by national teaching quality standards for French; strong research-led teaching in visual culture.
Reputation (Employability Rankings): The University of Aberdeen maintains high employability outcomes and excellent teaching quality, with French consistently rated at the highest level in national assessments.
At the University of Aberdeen, the MA in Film & Visual Culture and French offers students an immersive, hands-on approach that goes beyond traditional classroom learning. You’ll develop practical skills in film analysis, digital video production, and web design, while deepening your understanding of French language and culture. The program emphasizes real-world experiences, allowing you to engage directly with media, cinema, and Francophone cultural contexts. State-of-the-art facilities and expert guidance ensure that your learning is both practical and professionally relevant:
Digital Video Production & Web Design: Gain hands-on experience using industry-standard software and tools to create, edit, and present digital content.
French Language Immersion: Spend half of year three as a teaching assistant or visiting student in a French-speaking country, enhancing language proficiency and cultural understanding.
Film & Visual Culture Analysis: Access analogue and digital archives, visual artefacts, and cinema collections to study moving and still images in depth.
Group Projects & Collaborative Work: Engage in teamwork on creative and analytical projects, preparing for professional environments in media and arts.
Research Facilities & Libraries: Utilize the University’s extensive libraries, archives, and research centres, including resources in Francophone studies, film, and visual culture.
Interdisciplinary Exposure: Explore complementary subjects such as philosophy, history, sociology, theatre, and literature to broaden analytical and critical skills.
Career-Oriented Opportunities: Develop skills relevant to creative arts, media, journalism, teaching, tourism, and international business through applied learning experiences.
This combination of practical training, international exposure, and interdisciplinary study ensures you graduate ready to pursue a wide range of career paths with confidence and expertise.
Graduates of the Film & Visual Culture and French, MA at the University of Aberdeen are well-equipped to pursue careers that blend creative, cultural, and linguistic expertise. Common career paths include roles in creative arts, media production, journalism, and teaching:
University Services: The Aberdeen Career Service offers tailored guidance, workshops, CV clinics, and employer networking events to help students secure relevant employment.
Employment Stats & Salary: Aberdeen graduates report high employability rates, with many entering professional roles immediately after graduation; typical starting salaries range from £22,000–£30,000 depending on sector.
University–Industry Partnerships: Students benefit from partnerships with French cultural institutions and media organizations, including opportunities for work placements and collaborative projects.
Accreditation Value: The MA is fully recognised in both academic and professional contexts, enhancing credibility for international career prospects.
Graduation Outcomes: Alumni have successfully pursued careers in media production, cultural management, translation, and international business, leveraging both their creative and language skills.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can continue their studies with postgraduate programmes such as MA or MSc degrees in Film Studies, Media and Communication, International Relations, or French Studies, or even professional training in journalism, translation, or cultural management. This pathway allows for deepened specialization or expansion into interdisciplinary fields.



Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.
