4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
The BA (Hons) Film and Screen Studies with Foundation Year at the University of Nottingham is designed for students passionate about exploring the impact of screen media on society and culture. This four-year program combines a preparatory foundation year with a comprehensive study of film and screen media, preparing you for a dynamic career in the creative industries.
Curriculum Structure:
Foundation Year (Year 0): The foundation year equips you with essential academic skills and introduces you to key concepts in the arts and humanities. Modules include Critical Thinking and Reflective Learning, Media, Communication and Society, and Language and Culture, fostering analytical thinking and effective communication. This year also offers The Project module, allowing you to engage in practical, interdisciplinary work.
Year 1: Upon successful completion of the foundation year, you progress to the first year of the degree program. You'll delve into core subjects such as Film History, Screen Cultures, and Media Production, gaining a solid understanding of film theory and production techniques. This year emphasizes critical analysis and creative exploration of screen media.
Year 2: The second year builds upon foundational knowledge, focusing on specialized topics like Global Cinemas, Digital Media, and Audience Studies. You'll engage in research projects and practical assignments, enhancing your ability to analyze and create screen content within a global context.
Year 3: In the final year, you undertake advanced modules such as Screenwriting, Directing for the Screen, and Film and Media Industries. A significant component is the Dissertation, allowing you to conduct in-depth research on a topic of your choice, demonstrating your expertise and critical thinking skills.
Focus Areas: Film History, Screen Cultures, Media Production, Global Cinemas, Digital Media, Audience Studies, Screenwriting, Directing, Film and Media Industries.
Learning Outcomes: Critical analysis of screen media, understanding of global cinematic practices, proficiency in media production techniques, ability to conduct independent research, and effective communication skills.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program is accredited by the University of Nottingham, ensuring high academic standards and recognition in the field of film and screen studies.
Reputation (Employability Rankings): The University of Nottingham is ranked 7th in the UK for work experience opportunities (Rate My Placement, 2025) and is among the top 3 most targeted UK universities by leading employers (The Graduate Market, High Fliers Research, 2024), reflecting its strong employability outcomes.
🎬 Experiential Learning: Hands-On Opportunities in Film and Screen Studies
The Film and Screen Studies (with Foundation Year) BA Hons program at the University of Nottingham combines the excitement of creative exploration with practical, hands-on learning. During the Foundation Year, you’ll take six introductory modules across different subjects within the Faculty of Arts, giving you a solid grounding in university life and academic expectations. This foundation sets you up for a deeper dive into the world of screen media.
As you move into the main years of the program, you’ll have the freedom to focus on areas that inspire you, developing projects based on your own ideas. The course also explores how screen media shapes society and culture, and gives you a real understanding of the industry, from economic trends to audience behavior and creative decision-making.
Practical coursework plays a key role throughout, helping you bring theory to life and understand how concepts work in the real world.
Here are some of the experiential learning opportunities and resources you can expect:
Foundation Year Modules: Begin with six introductory modules across the Faculty of Arts, giving you a broad and supportive foundation for your studies.
Specialization Opportunities: As you progress, focus on areas that interest you and develop projects around your own creative ideas.
Practical Coursework: Take part in hands-on coursework that links theory to real-world practice, helping you build confidence and skills.
Industry Insights: Gain a deeper understanding of the media world, including its economic landscape, audience behavior, and the creative decisions behind films and screen content.
Faculty of Arts Resources: Access a wide range of support, from academic guidance to career development, ensuring you have the tools to succeed.
Cultural, Media, and Visual Studies Modules: Explore interdisciplinary modules that broaden your perspective and deepen your knowledge of screen media.
These experiences are designed to give you a well-rounded understanding of film and screen studies, equipping you with the skills and insights needed for a rewarding career in the creative industries.
Graduates of the Film and Screen Studies (with Foundation Year) BA at the University of Nottingham leave with strong creative, analytical, and practical skills, ready to make their mark in the media and entertainment industries. Typical career paths include Film Director, Film and Video Editor, Production Designer, and Location Manager:
University Careers and Employability Service: Provides one-on-one guidance, workshops, and industry connections to help students secure internships and graduate roles.
Employment stats and salary: Nottingham graduates in arts and media fields have a high employability rate, with starting salaries often around £22,000–£28,000, rising significantly with experience.
University–industry partnerships: Close ties with film studios, production companies, and media organizations ensure practical experience and networking opportunities.
Accreditation value: Degrees from the University of Nottingham are widely respected, enhancing employability worldwide.
Graduation outcomes: Alumni find roles in film production, television, media agencies, and creative industries, or move into freelance and entrepreneurial work.
Further Academic Progression:
Students can continue their studies with postgraduate programs in Film Studies, Media Production, Screenwriting, or related creative arts disciplines, or pursue specialized training and certifications to deepen technical expertise in areas such as directing, editing, or cinematography.
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