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The Film Studies BA at the University of Leeds offers an immersive exploration of global film culture, film form, and style, emphasizing cinema’s social and political significance. It is ideal for students passionate about understanding both historical and contemporary films from diverse cultures, beyond just Hollywood.
Curriculum Structure:
Year 1:
In your first year, you’ll build a foundation in film studies, focusing on standard concepts and research skills through a global perspective. Core modules like Introduction to Film Studies I & II and Introduction to Audio-Visual Culture guide you in analyzing films critically, while optional modules such as Directing World Cinemas and Film Music let you explore creative and technical aspects of cinema.
Year 2:
Your second year delves deeper into critical theories and methodologies with the compulsory module Critical Approaches to Screen Studies. Optional modules allow you to tailor your degree to your interests, such as Chinese Cinema, Women’s Authorship in World Cinema, or Film Programming and Exhibition: Curating for Cinemas and Festivals, enabling you to examine national cinemas, genre, and film curation practices in depth.
Year 3:
The final year emphasizes independent research and specialized study. You’ll complete Current Enquiries into Film Studies and a Final Year Project, which can also be a public engagement initiative. Optional modules like Japanese Cinema in the World, Queer Films on Global Screens, or Cinema in the Digital Era let you investigate contemporary and historical cinematic trends, with the chance to take a study abroad or work placement year.
Focus Areas: Global film culture, film form and style, historical and contemporary cinema, film theory, curation, and digital media.
Learning Outcomes: Develop critical thinking, independent research, analytical skills, intercultural awareness, and effective communication in film contexts.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation): Not specified; benefits from University of Leeds’ strong academic and industry connections.
Reputation (Employability Rankings): The University of Leeds is highly regarded in arts and humanities, consistently featuring in top UK and global university rankings for graduate employability and research excellence.
At the University of Leeds, the Film Studies BA offers students a deeply immersive and hands-on learning experience that goes far beyond traditional lectures. You’ll develop practical skills in critical analysis, research, and communication while exploring cinema from around the world. The program takes full advantage of Leeds’ rich cultural landscape, including independent cinemas, film festivals, and specialist centres, giving you real-world exposure to film practice and curation. You’ll also gain access to cutting-edge facilities, digital tools, and expert guidance that prepare you for careers in film, media, and beyond.
Your experiential learning will include opportunities such as:
Work Placement Year or Study Abroad: Apply your skills in professional environments or gain international experience.
Centre for World Cinemas and Digital Cultures: Engage with research-led activities and events in global cinema.
Specialist Library Collections: Access the University library’s Special Collections, including manuscripts, early printed materials, and film streaming services like BFI Player and Kanopy.
Screening Facilities: Large-screen lecture theatres for module film screenings and collective cinema experiences.
Hands-On Research Projects: Complete an independent final-year project or public engagement project, applying theoretical knowledge to practical research.
Optional Modules in Film Programming, Curation, and Digital Media: Participate in projects that simulate real-world film exhibition and festival organization.
Group Seminars and Workshops: Collaborate with peers on analytical and creative assignments, enhancing teamwork and communication skills.
Access to Local Film Culture: Leeds International Film Festival, Hyde Park Picture House, and proximity to the National Science and Media Museum in Bradford for field trips and industry insight.
This combination of academic rigor, practical experience, and world-class resources ensures that every Leeds Film Studies student graduates ready to engage confidently with the global film industry.
Future Progression & Opportunities
Graduates of the Film Studies BA at the University of Leeds leave with a deep understanding of global film cultures, critical analysis, and communication skills, equipping them for dynamic careers in the creative industries. Typical roles include film curator, media analyst, content producer, and festival coordinator:
University Career Services: The Leeds Careers Centre offers tailored support including CV workshops, mock interviews, internship placements, and alumni networking opportunities.
Employment Stats & Salary: Leeds graduates typically see strong employment outcomes, with many entering creative industries, media, and cultural sectors, earning starting salaries around £22,000–£28,000.
University–Industry Partnerships: Students can connect with organizations such as the Leeds International Film Festival, the National Science and Media Museum, and various independent cinemas, providing hands-on experience and professional networking.
Accreditation Value: The degree is widely respected in creative and cultural sectors, enhancing career prospects nationally and internationally.
Graduation Outcomes: Graduates find roles across film, television, media, curation, festival management, and research, benefiting from strong analytical, research, and communication skills.
Further Academic Progression:
Students may continue their studies with postgraduate programs such as MA in Film Studies, Media and Cultural Studies, or Creative Industries Management, opening pathways to academic research, higher-level curation roles, or specialized industry positions in film and media.
A-level: ABB / IB: 34 points overall with 16 at Higher Level.Where an applicant is taking the EPQ in a relevant subject this might be considered alongside other Level 3 qualifications and may attract an alternative offer in addition to the standard offer. If you are taking A Levels, this would be BBB at A Level and grade A in the EPQ.IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0.TOEFL iBT at 88 overall with no less than 20 in reading, 19 in listening, 22 in speaking and 21 in writing.GCSE English Language or IGCSE English as a First or Second Language: C or 4. GCSE English Literature may be considered in certain circumstances for some courses.For Indian Applicants: 60-85% overall average, with 75-90% in two relevant subjects.Typically accepted Standard X qualifications as equivalent to GCSEs, except for Standard X English. Typically required Standard XII English because the curriculum of this qualification is more closely aligned with GCSE English.For US Applicants: High School Diploma 3.0 GPA with two Honors Classes at A and B, plus one AP at 4. ORHigh School Diploma 3.0 GPA with two Honors Classes at A and B, plus one IB HL course at 5. OR High School Diploma 3.0 GPA with two Honors Classes at A and B, plus one Dual Enrolment course at B.SAT II scores taken before 2021 may be accepted in lieu of an AP or HL subject (650–750), to fulfill a subject requirement, or to replace one Honors class when combined with other qualifications.English Requirements for US Applicants: Must meet one of the following: Grade 12 English with a 2.0 GPA (70%), AP English Language or Literature score of 3+,SAT (old) 1650 with 550 per section, SAT (new) 1290 (650 EBRW, 620 Math), ACT English 26, or an associate degree with 3.0 GPA. Alternatively, an IELTS 6.0, GCSE English grade C/4, or equivalent is required.English Requirements for Indian Applicants: Standard XII English at 70% or 75% depending on state board, or IELTS 6.0 overall, GCSE English C or 4 or an equivalent qualificationFilm CriticScreenwriterFilm DirectorCinematographerFilm ProducerEditorProduction DesignerSound DesignerCostume DesignerCasting DirectorFilm ArchivistScript SupervisorFilm MarketerDocumentary MakerVisual Effects Artist
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University of Leeds
