MA International Film Business

1 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Exeter

Program Overview

The MA International Film Business at the University of Exeter is designed for students who want to develop a career in the global film and screen industries by gaining knowledge of film production, finance, distribution, marketing, and international markets. Delivered in partnership with the London Film School, the programme combines academic learning with industry expertise, practical experience, and professional networking opportunities to help students understand and succeed in the fast-changing world of international film business.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

During the programme, students develop a strong understanding of the global film industry through modules such as Distribution and Markets, The Entertainment Value Chain, and The International Film Business: Approaches, Concepts and Strategies. These modules explore how films are developed, financed, marketed, distributed, and positioned within international markets, while helping students understand the commercial and strategic decisions that shape the global screen industry.

Year 1 (Industry Specialisation and Practical Development)

Students continue to develop their industry knowledge through study at the London Film School, where they explore contemporary approaches to filmmaking and the creative industries through modules such as Models of Innovation. Students also complete either a Dissertation or Dissertation Project, allowing them to conduct specialist research or develop a practical project connected to the international film business with guidance from academic supervisors and industry experts.

Focus Areas

International film business, Film production and finance, Film distribution and markets, Entertainment value chains, Film marketing and sales, Film exhibition, Creative industry innovation, Film festivals, Global screen industries, Business strategy, Industry networking

Learning Outcomes

Understand the structure and operation of global film industries, analyse international film markets, develop knowledge of film finance and distribution strategies, apply business concepts to creative industries, evaluate film marketing and sales approaches, develop research and project management skills, build professional networks, understand industry innovation, and prepare for careers across film, television, streaming platforms, and wider creative sectors.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The programme provides industry-focused preparation through its partnership with the London Film School, combining the academic strengths of the University of Exeter with practical knowledge from experienced film professionals. Students benefit from industry masterclasses, guest lectures, professional mentoring, film market experiences, and exposure to real-world film business practices, helping them develop skills relevant to careers in the international screen industry.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of Exeter’s MA International Film Business has gained international recognition through its partnership with the London Film School and its global network of graduates working across film, television, advertising, and other creative industries. Students benefit from strong industry connections, professional events, and opportunities to engage with global film markets and festivals, supporting their career development within the international film sector.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

On this MA, you’ll do much more than just read about the film industry — you’ll actually step inside it. From guest lectures with industry professionals to real-world projects, you’ll gain hands-on experience that brings theory to life. Studying across Exeter and London gives you a unique perspective on the global film business, and you’ll get direct exposure to distribution campaigns, film festivals, and professional networks. You’ll also have access to amazing resources like the Bill Douglas Cinema Museum, special audio-visual collections, and expert librarians who can guide your research.

Here’s how your learning becomes practical and real:

Work on live campaigns for eXeFilm, Exeter University’s film-distribution label, seeing how films reach audiences.
Attend field trips, including one in Devon to explore alternative cinema exhibition, and another to a major international film festival or market like Cannes.
Participate in masterclasses, seminars, and mentoring sessions at the London Film School, and even get involved in a graduation film project.
Complete your dissertation or project with guidance from both an academic supervisor and an industry mentor, blending scholarly insight with professional advice.
Explore the Bill Douglas Cinema Museum, home to over 70,000 film artefacts, giving you a hands-on look at cinema history.
Use Exeter’s library and audio-visual collections, including over 12,000 film titles and computing facilities for postgraduate projects.
Access the International Film Business Subject Guide, full of specialized databases, journals, and archival materials to support your research.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from this MA often step straight into exciting roles across the global film and screen industries. Many find themselves working as a Film Sales Executive, Distribution Manager, Creative Producer, or Festival Programmer, blending creative insight with business know-how. Your degree opens doors to hands-on roles where you can shape how films reach audiences worldwide:

University Support: Exeter’s Career Zone helps you every step of the way, from one-to-one career mentoring to creative industry-specific job fairs, and even connecting you with alumni who are already working in the film world.
Alumni Success & Employment Stats: Over 350 alumni are working in international sales, distribution, festival management, and licensing across 30+ countries. Past graduates have landed key positions, like Sales Manager at Cornerstone Films.
Industry Partnerships: Thanks to the partnership with the London Film School, you’ll benefit from direct industry connections, guest lectures, mentorship, and the opportunity to work on an LFS graduation film project.
Long-Term Value: Your qualification is recognized and respected globally, combining the reputation of Exeter with the practical industry credibility of LFS.
Graduate Outcomes: You’ll join a growing, supportive alumni community, giving you access to networking, sector-specific advice, and potential collaborations worldwide.

Further Academic Progression:
If you want to continue your studies, you could move into PhD research in film, media economics, or cultural policy, or specialize further with postgraduate degrees in producing, film finance, or creative industries management — all helping you deepen your expertise and expand your career options.