Enter OTP
The BA Film and Modern Languages at the University of Bristol blends the study of film and television with a chosen language such as French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, or Spanish. This degree is perfect for students with a curiosity about global cultures and a passion for exploring cinematic storytelling and cultural expression.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Students begin with foundational Language and Culture units, developing reading, writing, listening, grammar, and speaking skills in their chosen language. In Film and Television, students explore the history, theory, and critical approaches to film, engaging with units such as Film History and Introduction to Film Studies, while gaining early practical filmmaking experience.
Year 2: Language studies deepen with intermediate courses in grammar and cultural topics, while students may choose optional units on literature, history, or politics of the language’s region. Film studies expand into genres, national cinemas, and critical analysis, including units like European Cinema and Screen Production Projects, fostering both analytical and creative skills.
Year 3: Many students undertake a year abroad, enhancing fluency and cultural understanding while taking language courses at partner universities or through work placements. Film and Television studies continue with advanced units such as Film Theory and Documentary Production, allowing students to refine their analytical and practical filmmaking abilities.
Year 4: The final year focuses on specialization and independent research. Language units cover advanced topics in literature, linguistics, and contemporary culture, while film students complete a dissertation or major production project, integrating theory and practice to demonstrate comprehensive expertise.
Focus Areas: Film and television analysis, filmmaking practice, language acquisition, cultural studies, literature, and history.
Learning Outcomes: Fluency in a foreign language, critical and analytical skills in film studies, cultural literacy, and practical filmmaking competence.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation): N/A
Reputation (Employability Rankings): Recognized for strong research-led teaching and high graduate employability; University of Bristol ranks highly in QS and Guardian league tables for Arts and Humanities.
At the University of Bristol, the BA Film and Modern Languages program offers a dynamic blend of practical and academic experiences designed to equip students with real-world skills. From the very beginning, students actively engage with film and television production while simultaneously developing linguistic proficiency in a chosen language, such as French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, or Spanish. The course emphasizes creative and analytical learning, allowing students to explore filmmaking techniques, critique media, and immerse themselves in diverse cultural contexts. The university provides access to dedicated film and television facilities, modern digital tools, and expert guidance from leading scholars and practitioners.
Students benefit from hands-on learning and collaborative projects in a supportive, research-led environment, enabling them to gain both technical competence and cultural insight.
Experiential learning opportunities include:
Film and Television Production Studios for practical filmmaking exercises and group projects.
Digital Editing and Post-Production Tools to develop advanced media production skills.
Language Laboratories for improving listening, speaking, and pronunciation in the chosen language.
Core and Optional Cultural Units exploring literature, history, politics, and visual arts of the language regions.
Collaborative Projects bridging film and language studies, fostering teamwork and creative problem-solving.
Access to the University Library and Specialized Collections for research and media studies.
Opportunities for International Exchange or Study Trips to experience the culture of the target language firsthand.
Engagement with Academic Institutes and Guest Practitioners within the Department of Film and Television.
This combination of practical workshops, digital tools, collaborative projects, and immersive cultural experiences ensures students graduate with a comprehensive skill set that prepares them for careers in media, translation, international communication, and beyond.
Graduates of the BA Film and Modern Languages at the University of Bristol enjoy diverse career pathways, combining creative, cultural, and linguistic skills. Typical roles include Film Critic, Translator/Interpreter, Cultural Programme Coordinator, and Media Researcher:
University Career Services: The Bristol Careers Service offers one-on-one career coaching, internships, and placement support tailored to creative and language-focused roles.
Employment Stats & Salary Figures: A high proportion of graduates secure employment within six months, with starting salaries for related roles averaging £24,000–£30,000 depending on sector and location.
University–Industry Partnerships: Strong connections with film production companies, media organizations, and international cultural institutions provide networking and placement opportunities.
Accreditation & Recognition: Degrees from the University of Bristol are highly respected internationally, offering long-term value and recognition in both academic and professional contexts.
Graduation Outcomes: Alumni have progressed into careers in media, cultural organizations, education, translation, and international relations, benefiting from Bristol’s reputation and alumni network.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can continue their studies through postgraduate programs such as an MA in Film Studies, Translation Studies, International Relations, or Cultural Studies. Opportunities also exist for research-based degrees, including MPhil or PhD programs, enhancing expertise in both film and language disciplines.
A-level: AABIB: 34 points overall with 17 at Higher LevelGCSE English Language grade B or 6IELTS 7.0 overall with 7.0 in writing and 6.5 in all other skillsTOEFL: 95 overall with R22, L21, S23, W24For Indian Applicants: Typical offers for CBSE and CISCE range from 80% (equivalent to ABB at A-level) to 90% (equivalent to A*AA at A-level). CBSE or CISCE English at 70-80% or above can be accepted in lieu of another English test such as IELTS.For US Applicants: high school diploma (or equivalent) with a GPA of 3.2 and three additional qualifications, which can be any of the following: SAT (evidence-based reading and writing section only) with a minimum of 650 or ACT with a minimum score of 28 / AP Tests with a score of at least 4 (more commonly 5) AP classes, taken over two semesters in Grade 11 or Grade 12 / Honors level classes taken in both semesters in Grade 12. If your school does not call advanced courses 'Honors', we will need official confirmation of the level of your Honors course from your school or the school profileDual enrolment/ college courses / IB Higher Level courses / A Levels This joint honours degree course combines the study of film and television with your chosen language: French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian or Spanish.All languages can be studied from beginners' level or post-A level (or the equivalent), apart from Portuguese, which is offered from beginners' level only.Film directorScreenwriterFilm editorCinematographerProducerFilm criticSubtitler/TranslatorLanguage teacherCultural consultantMedia researcherContent creatorVoice-over artistFilm festival coordinatorLocalization specialistScript translator
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.
University of Bristol
