1st in Scotland for research in Communication, Cultural and Media Studies (most recent Research Assessment Exercise)
1st in Scotland for Communications and Media (The Complete University Guide, 2011, and The Guardian University Guide, 2011)
Stirling has an international reputation for its dynamic and innovative work in film and cinema studies. This course is unique in the UK in offering modules that combine the theory and practice of film studies, as well as a range of additional modules across cinema, media, communications and cultural studies
Course objectives
Students will learn various strategies for analysing films, and will learn to apply those strategies not only in academia, but in the context of film-based arts institutions as well. Students will consider the influence and wider implications of film history, ideology, form, aesthetics and policy, while examining a broad area of concerns within film studies that may include: genre, authorship, national and transnational cinemas, stardom, Hollywood, early cinema, digital cinema, film representation, audiences, music and sound on film, youth cinema, experimental and cult cinemas.
Entrance requirements
Consideration will be given to candidates with an Honours degree, or its equivalent, from a university or college recognised by the University of Stirling.
English language requirements
If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence of your proficiency such as a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 (minimum 6 in each skill), or TOEFL: Listening 23, Reading 23, Speaking 23, Writing 23.
Funding
information on possible sources of funding
Modes of study
Full-time:
MLitt: 12 months
Diploma: nine months
Certificate: three months
Part-time:
MLitt: 27 months
Diploma: 21 months
Certificate: six months
Course start date
September
Structure and content
Semester 1
- Film Studies: Form and Analysis
- Training for Master’s in the Arts and Humanities
One option from:
- Postcolonial Cinema
- The Practice of Cultural Theory
- Media Environment
- Media Relations
- Scriptwriting
- Contemporary Issues in the Creative Industries
Semester 2
- Film Studies: History, Theory, Criticism
- Reading for the Screen
One option from:
- Transnational Cinema
- Digital Cultures
- Screen Genres
- Media Rights
- Media Policy and Regulation
- Memory and Archives in the Digital Age
Summer
Dissertation / Creative Project
Delivery and assessment
Assessment in each semester will be based on coursework and essays; there are no formal examinations. Methods of assessment for each of the non-core modules will vary, but will often consist of a single essay. Teaching will take the form of regular tutorials in small groups. The aim in all cases is to foster student-led learning in expert, stimulating and congenial company.
Why study Film Studies: Theory and Practice at Stirling?
Course Director
Professor Elizabeth Ezra and Professor Karen Boyle
RAE rating
Communications, Media and Culture at Stirling is ranked top in Scotland in Communication, Cultural and Media Studies according to the most recent Research Assessment Exercise, and the School of Arts and Humanities at the University of Stirling has an internationally renowned research profile in film and cinema studies.
Career opportunities
This degree will appeal not only to those seeking to pursue an academic career, but also to those for whom an understanding of cinema or of the cultural dimensions of film production, distribution and exhibition would be advantageous in developing a career path in the creative industries.
Skills you can develop through this course
As you progress through your Mlitt Film Studies, you will have the opportunity to develop the following practical skills and attributes that are much sought after by prospective employers:
- Written communication – these skills are developed through the various essays, reports and examinations required for each of your modules
- Oral communication – learn to get your point across effectively in a group setting through class presentations
- Teamworking – groupwork is an essential part of your GCC degree, and is developed through group presentations
- Global awareness — you will gain an understanding of the variety of cultures and national identities that shape the world today, as well as an awareness of the role of cultural practices and cultural institutions in society
- Media analyisis—you will become proficient in the analysis of a range of media and expressive arts, including not only cinema, but also digital media, photography, literature and advertising
- Time management – you will learn how to manage your time more effectively through your active involvement in group projects, as well as by successfully juggling your weekly workload in order to meet your multiple deadlines for coursework
- Self-confidence – participating in every aspect of your degree will help build your confidence, both personally and professionally
Chances to expand your horizons
Film Studies students will benefit from a vibrant, cross-cultural environment in which they will have the opportunity to attend guest lectures from high-profile international speakers.
Where are our graduates now?
Our recent graduates have gone on to a wide variety of jobs in the UK and abroad including: arts, education and film production.
