top of page
A film slate in front of a film crew.

Film and Television Studies BA

Study of film, television, and screen cultures - combining analysis, research, and creative practice to understand how visual media shapes stories, society, and audiences.

Is this for you?

This degree could suit you if you:

  • Love film and TV

  • Enjoy analysing media

  • Like critical thinking

  • Want a career in media or research

  • Are interested in storytelling

Popular Career Fields

Media & Broadcasting

Education

Film & Television

Journalism & Publishing

Your Personality Might Be:

Film-literate

Education

Culturally curious

Critical viewer

What is it?

What Is a Film and Television Studies Degree?

Film and Television Studies explores the history, theory, and cultural impact of screen media. You’ll examine how films and TV programmes are made, how they influence society, and how audiences interpret them. Many courses include practical modules where you can learn filming, editing, and media production.


Why Study Film and Television Studies?

If you enjoy watching, discussing, and analysing films or TV, this degree lets you turn that passion into expertise. It develops strong critical thinking and communication skills while giving insights into the creative industries, storytelling, and media production.

Director giving tips to a film student.

Course Summary

Study of film, television, and screen cultures - combining analysis, research, and creative practice to understand how visual media shapes stories, society, and audiences.

What you'll study

Most courses cover:


  • Film and television history

  • Screen theory and criticism

  • Genre, narrative, and representation

  • Global cinema and contemporary media

  • Industry structures and production cultures

  • Audience research and media analysis

  • Optional practical filmmaking or screenwriting


Later in your degree, you might be able t choose areas such as documentary, animation, screenwriting, Hollywood cinema, censorship, or digital media cultures.

Explore More Courses

Skills You'll Gain

A Film and Television Studies degree helps you develop creative and academic skills, including:


Critical Film Analysis – interpreting themes, style, genre, and cultural context in film and TV.


Media Research Skills – analysing audiences, industry trends, and screen narratives using academic methods.


Visual Literacy – understanding cinematography, editing, sound, and visual storytelling techniques.


Writing & Communication – producing essays, reviews, and analytical commentary on screen media.


Cultural & Historical Insight – exploring how film and television reflect and shape society, history, and identity.

Explore Uni Open Days

Open Day Calendar

Pathways, Placements and Work Experience

CAREERS

Career Pathways

After graduation, you can work in:

  • Film and television production

  • Media research and development

  • Marketing, PR, and communications

  • Journalism, criticism, and publishing

  • Arts management, festivals, and cultural organisations

Work Experiences & Placements

Some universities offer optional placements or partnerships with:


  • Film and TV companies

  • Production studios

  • Festivals, cinemas, or cultural organisations

  • Media and communication teams


These opportunities help you gain insight into the screen industries and build valuable experience.

Salary Profile

Coming soon

Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?

AM I ELIGIBLE?

Entry Requirements

A-levels or equivalent. Most universities accept a broad range of subjects. Media Studies, Film Studies, English, History, Sociology, or Art are beneficial.

Personal Statement Tips


  • Explain why film and television interest you.

  • Mention any filmmaking, writing, or media projects you’ve done.

  • Highlight your analytical, creative, and communication skills.

  • Show awareness of how films and TV shape culture and society.

Some universities may request a short writing sample or invite you to an informal interview.

What to do Next

  • Watch a wide range of films and TV from different genres and cultures.

  • Join a film club or create reviews for a blog or YouTube channel.

  • Attend open days to explore screening rooms and production facilities.

  • Learn the basics of editing or storytelling using free software.

Uni student

Not sure what to study?

Alternatives to Degrees

Internships
Short Courses
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships

Wider Reading

  • Film Art: An Introduction by David Bordwell and Kristin Thompson – A clear guide to film analysis.

  • TV Studies: The Basics by Toby Miller – An overview of how television works and why it matters.

  • Documentary: A Very Short Introduction by Patricia Aufderheide – Insight into non-fiction storytelling.

  • Understanding Movies by Louis Giannetti – A practical introduction to film form and technique.

bottom of page