Film & Visual Culture and French (5 years), MA

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Aberdeen

Program Overview

The Film & Visual Culture and French MA at the University of Aberdeen offers a unique combination of creative media studies and advanced language skills, perfect for students passionate about both film and French culture. This program develops critical thinking, analytical abilities, and communication skills through a blend of practical and theoretical learning.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1:
In the first year, students build a strong foundation in both disciplines, exploring introductory modules in Film Studies, such as the history of cinema and basic film analysis, alongside French language skills and cultural studies. This year emphasizes understanding key concepts and developing essential research and language abilities.

Year 2:
During the second year, students deepen their understanding of visual media through modules like Film Theory and Documentary Studies, while progressing in French with courses focused on intermediate language proficiency and Francophone culture. Students begin to analyze films in more depth and engage with cultural contexts, improving both critical and linguistic skills.

Year 3:
The third year allows for greater specialization, with options in Contemporary Cinema, Visual Culture, and advanced French modules such as French Literature and Society. Students start to undertake more independent projects, developing the ability to research, critique, and present their analyses at a higher level.

Year 4:
Students typically spend the fourth year on an international placement or study abroad, enhancing their French language fluency and gaining practical experience in cultural contexts. This immersive experience strengthens professional skills, cultural understanding, and adaptability in real-world settings.

Year 5:
The final year focuses on advanced scholarship and creative application, with modules like Advanced Film Analysis, Media Production, and a dissertation in Film & Visual Culture or French studies. Students consolidate their knowledge, develop original research, and prepare for careers in media, cultural sectors, or further study.

Focus Areas:
Film analysis, visual culture, media production, French language, Francophone literature, and cultural studies.

Learning Outcomes:
Develop critical and analytical skills in film and visual culture, achieve advanced French language proficiency, conduct independent research, and apply creative and cultural knowledge to practical contexts.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
The program aligns with professional standards in media and language studies, preparing students for careers in media, cultural industries, translation, and education.

Reputation (Employability Rankings):
The University of Aberdeen is internationally recognized for its humanities programs, consistently ranking highly in employability and graduate outcomes in the UK.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The Film & Visual Culture and French program at Aberdeen goes beyond traditional lectures, immersing you in hands-on experiences that develop both your practical and analytical skills. Students engage directly with film production, media analysis, and French language practice, supported by top-notch facilities and expert guidance. From working with the latest digital tools to participating in collaborative projects, you’ll gain experience that prepares you for careers in creative industries, media, and international communication. The program encourages real-world application through research, practical workshops, and international opportunities:

  • Specialist Laboratories and Facilities: Access dedicated media labs and studios for film analysis, editing, and production.

  • Digital Tools: Training in contemporary digital media software used in film editing and visual culture studies.

  • Group Projects: Collaborative projects in both film and language modules to enhance teamwork and practical problem-solving skills.

  • Internships and Placements: Opportunities for professional placements in media, cultural organizations, or French-speaking environments.

  • Field Trips and Cultural Visits: Engagements with cultural institutions, cinemas, and international study experiences to contextualize learning.

  • Libraries and Research Resources: Extensive collections at the University of Aberdeen Library, including media archives and French literature resources.

  • Institutes and Support: Support from French & Francophone Studies and Film & Visual Culture departments with access to research centers and expert faculty.

  • Language Immersion: Intensive French language practice through courses, conversation groups, and international exchanges.

This combination of practical workshops, technology-driven learning, and cultural immersion ensures you graduate with both the theoretical knowledge and real-world experience highly valued by employers worldwide.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Film & Visual Culture and French (5 years), MA at the University of Aberdeen leave with a unique blend of creative, analytical, and linguistic skills that open doors to careers in media, arts, and international sectors. Typical roles include Film Programmer, Cultural Officer, Translator/Interpreter, and Media Researcher:

  • University Career Services: The Careers and Employability Service supports students with tailored CV workshops, internship placements, and networking opportunities in creative industries.

  • Employment Stats & Salary: Graduates in related fields often secure roles with starting salaries averaging £25,000–£30,000, with prospects rising significantly with experience.

  • University–Industry Partnerships: Aberdeen has strong links with media organizations and cultural institutions across Europe, offering collaborative projects and work placements.

  • Accreditation Value: The degree carries long-standing recognition in French & Francophone studies, valued by employers for its rigorous cultural and linguistic training.

  • Graduation Outcomes: Alumni work in film, media, translation, publishing, and international cultural organizations, benefiting from both creative expertise and global perspective.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can advance to postgraduate studies, including MA or MSc programs in Film Studies, Media & Communication, Translation, or European Studies, or pursue professional diplomas in arts management, digital media, and language teaching to further enhance career opportunities.

Program Key Stats

£20,800
£9,535
£ 29
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


78 %
No
No

Eligibility Criteria

BBC
3.0
32
75

N/A
N/A
6.0
78

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Film critic
  • Film director
  • Screenwriter
  • Film producer
  • Cinematographer
  • Art director
  • Film editor
  • Cultural curator
  • Media researcher
  • French translator
  • International media consultant
  • Festival programmer
  • Content strategist
  • Academic lecturer
  • Marketing & communications specialist

Book Free Session with Our Admission Experts

Admission Experts