Studying Film Studies at University: UK, USA, Australia & NZ Compared

If you love cinema, storytelling, or the art of filmmaking, Film Studies could be your perfect degree.

Whether you're into screenwriting, directing, analysing iconic films, or learning about global cinema cultures, this subject opens doors to a creative and ever-evolving industry.

But how does studying Film differ across the UK, USA, Australia, and New Zealand? Let’s roll the credits and break it all down 🎞️

🎥 What is Film Studies?

Film Studies is about more than just watching movies. You’ll explore:

• Film theory and history

• Critical analysis of genres, directors, and movements

• Practical filmmaking (in some programs)

• Scriptwriting, editing, sound design

• Cultural, political, and historical context behind cinema
  
  

Depending on the university, the course may be theory-focused, practical, or a mix of both.

Film Studies in the UK

📚 What to Expect

UK degrees often take a critical and historical approach, with some hands-on modules like video editing or short film production.

Typical modules include:

• British & European Cinema

• Hollywood & Global Film

• Gender & Representation in Film

• Film and Philosophy

• Screenwriting & Documentary
  
  

Most undergraduate degrees last 3 years, with optional placement years or study abroad.

🏛️ Top UK Universities for Film

• University of Warwick – Strong mix of theory and practice, high rankings.

• University of Exeter – BA in Film & Television Studies, excellent industry links.

• King’s College London – Emphasis on film culture and critical theory.

• University of the Arts London (UAL) – Great for practical film production and arts-focused studies.

• University of Glasgow – Highly rated with unique modules on Scottish cinema and beyond.
  
  

💸 Cost

• UK students: ~£9,250/year

• International students: ~£15,000–£25,000/year

• Scholarships and bursaries available for international students.
  
  

Film School in the USA

🎬 What to Expect

The US is home to some of the most renowned film schools in the world, many offering intensive practical training and strong industry connections.

Degrees often include:

• Directing, cinematography, and screenwriting

• Film theory and criticism

• Editing and sound design

• Access to industry-standard equipment and internships
  
  

Bachelor’s degrees usually take 4 years.

🏛️ Top Film Schools in the USA

• University of Southern California (USC) – Legendary ties to Hollywood.

• New York University (NYU Tisch) – A hotspot for actors, writers, and filmmakers.

• UCLA School of Theater, Film & TV – Combines practice with film history.

• Chapman University – Rising star with great facilities.

• Columbia University – Especially strong for screenwriting and producing.
  
  

💸 Cost

• Tuition: $30,000–$60,000/year (varies widely)

• Financial aid and scholarships are available, especially at private schools.
  
  

Film Studies in Australia & New Zealand

🎞️ What to Expect

Universities here offer a mix of academic theory and hands-on training—often with smaller class sizes and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Expect to study:

• Australian/NZ cinema

• Indigenous storytelling and identity

• Production, editing, and film business

• Global film and television trends
  
  

Bachelor’s degrees are typically 3 years, with optional Honours in Year 4.

🏛️ Top Unis in Australia & NZ

• University of Melbourne – Offers Film and Screen Studies as part of their Arts degree.

• University of Sydney – Theory-heavy, with strong critical focus.

• Griffith Film School (QLD) – Leading hands-on film school.

• AFTRS (Australian Film, Television and Radio School) – Very industry-focused, selective.

• University of Auckland (NZ) – Strong screen production and cultural studies programs.

• Victoria University of Wellington (NZ) – Known for close links to the local film industry (hello, Weta Workshop 👋).
  
  

💸 Cost

• Domestic: ~$7,000–$10,000/year

• International: ~$25,000–$35,000/year

• Many universities offer international scholarships.
  
  

🎯 What Can You Do with a Film Studies Degree?

A Film degree opens doors in creative industries and beyond:

• 🎥 Filmmaking (directing, producing, editing)

• 🖋 Screenwriting

• 📺 TV & Digital content production

• 🧠 Film journalism and criticism

• 📚 Academic research and teaching

• 📽️ Festival programming and curation

• 📱 Creative roles in advertising, PR, and social media

• 🎮 Even gaming and immersive media!
  
  

✨ Final Take

Studying Film is about learning to tell powerful stories—whether you’re analysing the symbolism in Parasite or directing your own short film.

Each country offers a different vibe:

• UK = Strong theory, historic universities, balance of practice.

• USA = Hollywood pipeline, high-intensity, production-driven.

• Australia/NZ = More laid-back, often highly practical with local storytelling focus.
  
  

If you’re passionate about cinema and ready to think creatively, Film Studies might just be your perfect role.

🎬 Lights, camera, application.