Lancaster University
Film Studies MA
Lancaster University

Key Course Facts

Course Description

The Film Studies MA at Lancaster provides the opportunity to study film theory, history and culture - particularly transnational cinemas - while also developing your practical skills in filmmaking. If you are passionate about putting theory into practice, we provide optional project-led modules and you could develop your skills in short narrative, documentary or experimental cinema.

The academics who will teach you are active in research and specialise in British cinema, Hong Kong cinema and Asian filmmaking in general, African-American popular culture, Middle Eastern cinemas, European arthouse cinemas and Hollywood Cinema, as well as approaches to film aesthetics, and the intersection between theory, culture and the image.

You will have the flexibility either to submit a traditional independent research dissertation or to undertake a practice-based project accompanied by a critical written piece for your final major research project. You will have access to an excellent range of technical resources and equipment including top of the line digital cameras and digital editing equipment.

The core modules are described under the course structure section above:

- Research Methods: Contemporary Film Theory

  • Transnational Cinemas - Major Research Project: Dissertation

There is also a range of optional modules including Contemporary Gothic, Film Theory and the Creative Process of Writing for the Screen, Digital Journalism & Visual Storytelling and more. Please note however that each year we run a selection of these optional modules and the modules offered can vary depending on staff availability. The programme will help you to strengthen your academic foundation if you plan planning to progress to doctoral (PhD) studies at Lancaster or elsewhere. It will also stand you in good stead if you want to pursue a career in the arts and media industries. For example you might be interested in:

  • Film and TV sector (Researcher, Writer, Director, Producer, Production Manager, etc.)
  • Advertising and other creative industries
  • Charities
  • PR and Marketing
  • Education
  • Research Council
  • Archives
  • Organisations involved in festival and cultural event management
  • Cultural and heritage organisations involved in film preservation, curating and archiving
  • Multimedia authoring and digital design companies

Entry Requirements / Admissions

Requirements for international students / English requirements

IELTS academic test score (similar tests may be accepted as well)

    • 7.0
    • Graduate Degrees
    • 6.5
    • Undergraduate Degrees
Get advice on which foundation courses are best for you to still study Film Studies, MA, if you do not meet the minimum requirements in terms of UCAS score, A levels, or English language requirements.

2:1 Hons degree (UK or equivalent) in Film or in a relevant discipline.

We may ask you to provide a recognised English language qualification, dependent upon your nationality and where you have studied previously.

We normally require an IELTS (Academic) Test with an overall score of at least 6.5, and a minimum of 6.0 in each element of the test. We also consider other English language qualifications.

Costs

Average student cost of living in the UK

Rent £518
Water, gas electricity, internet (at home) £50
Supermarket shopping £81
Clothing £35
Eating out £33
Alcohol £27
Takeaways / food deliveries £30
Going out / entertainment (excl.alcohol, food) £24
Holidays and weekend trips £78
Transport within city £17
Self-care / sports £20
Stationary / books £13
Mobile phone / internet £13
Cable TV / streaming £7
Insurance £51
Other £95
  
Average student cost of living £1092

London costs approx 34% more than average, mainly due to rent being 67% higher than average of other cities. For students staying in student halls, costs of water, gas, electricity, wifi are generally included in the rental. Students in smaller cities where accommodation is in walking/biking distance transport costs tend to be significantly smaller.

University Rankings

Positions of Lancaster University in top UK and global rankings.

See all 34 university rankings of Lancaster University

About Lancaster University

Lancaster University was established in 1964 and is located in the rural setting of Lancaster. The campus provides a series of amenities, including banks and a post office. Academically, all of this university’s courses and programmes are accredited and approved by MARP, ensuring that the curriculums delivered here are set at a high standard. In terms of facilities, students have access to a variety of study and recreational spaces intended to improve their wellbeing, such as Meditation and Tai Chi classes, and Woodland walks.

List of 452 Bachelor and Master Courses from Lancaster University - Course Catalogue

Student composition of Lancaster University

undergraduates:
12595
postgraduates:
4065
Total:
16660
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Where is this programme taught

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