English Literature and Film BA

The English Literature and Film BA at the University of Birmingham emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing students to engage directly with both textual and cinematic forms. Through the combination of seminars, workshops, and practical projects, students develop critical analytical skills alongside creative and technical competencies. The program encourages collaborative work, real-world research, and practical engagement with literature and film, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for careers in the creative industries. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, specialized libraries, and digital tools that support both study and production, fostering a truly immersive learning experience.

Students benefit from opportunities such as:

• Practical Film Workshops: Using University film studios and editing suites to create short films, adaptations, and experimental projects.

• Screening and Production Facilities: Access to high-definition screening rooms, professional editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro), and sound recording equipment.

• Seminars and Group Projects: Collaborative analysis and creative projects that blend literary studies with filmmaking techniques.

• Internships and Industry Links: Opportunities to gain experience with local film festivals, theatres, publishing houses, and media organizations.

• Specialized Libraries: Access to the Main Library and the Cadbury Research Library for film scripts, rare books, and archives.

• Research and Writing Laboratories: Support for both creative writing and film research with digital tools and study spaces.

• Visiting Experts and Field Trips: Interaction with industry professionals, on-location shoots, and trips to cultural institutions such as the Birmingham Repertory Theatre and local cinemas.

This combination of practical work, collaborative projects, and industry exposure ensures that students don’t just study film and literature—they actively engage with them, developing skills that are directly applicable to creative careers.

Future Progression & Opportunities:
Graduates of the English Literature and Film BA at the University of Birmingham enjoy a versatile skill set that opens doors across creative, cultural, and media industries. Many alumni move into roles where analytical thinking, storytelling, and media literacy are highly valued, such as publishing, film production, and education:

• University Career Services: The Careers Network provides one-to-one guidance, CV and interview workshops, and access to internship placements tailored to creative industries.

• Employment Stats & Salary Figures: Recent graduates report strong employment outcomes, with many securing roles within six months of graduation and typical starting salaries in the creative and media sectors ranging from £22,000 to £28,000.

• University–Industry Partnerships: The program benefits from connections with local and national media, literary, and film organizations, offering networking events, guest lectures, and collaborative projects.

• Accreditation & Long-term Value: The degree is highly regarded in the UK creative sector, providing a respected qualification that supports career advancement.

• Graduation Outcomes: Alumni pursue careers as film critics, content writers, editors, media producers, and educators, with many progressing to leadership or specialist roles in cultural organizations.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates may choose to continue their studies through postgraduate programs in Film Studies, Creative Writing, Literary Studies, Media Production, or Cultural Management. Opportunities also exist for research-based degrees such as an MPhil or PhD in English Literature or Film Studies, enabling a pathway into academia or advanced professional expertise.