University of Southampton

Overview

The BA Film Studies with Year Abroad at the University of Southampton offers a comprehensive exploration of film as an art form, industry, and cultural history. This programme spans from the early days of cinema to the vibrant landscape of contemporary screen culture. A distinctive feature of this course is the Year Abroad, where students immerse themselves in different film traditions and enhance their academic and language skills at a partner university during the third year.

What you'll study

This undergraduate programme is thoughtfully structured around core film studies modules, genre and thematic explorations, and opportunities to broaden your education through related disciplines. The Year Abroad allows you to study at an international partner institution and engage with diverse cinematic perspectives.

Typical course components

• Core film studies modules that focus on film history, analysis, and essential debates within the field.
• Genre and thematic modules, covering topics such as Film Noir, Animation, Film Adaptation, and Women and Hollywood.
• Industry-focused learning, encompassing aspects of the Film Industry.
• Writing and creative practice, including modules such as Scriptwriting.
• Regional and global cinema, exploring British, European, and World Cinema.
• Electives / cross-disciplinary options that may allow you to take courses from related areas such as English, history, or music depending on availability and your Year Abroad host.

Year Abroad (third year)

• Study at a partner university abroad, choosing modules that resonate with your film and screen culture interests.
• Potential opportunities to enhance your language skills, subject to availability.

Assessment

• Assessment typically includes a combination of essays, critical analyses, presentations, and project-based work.
• The specific formats of assessment may vary based on the modules selected.

Entry requirements

Admission to this programme generally relies on your previous academic qualifications. The typical entry criteria include:

• A-levels: ABB, including an essay-writing subject.
• International Baccalaureate Diploma: Successful completion with 32 points overall, including 16 points at Higher Level.
• BTEC: Distinction, Distinction in the BTEC Extended Diploma plus a B in an A-level essay writing subject; or Distinction, Distinction in the BTEC Diploma plus a B in an A-level essay writing subject; or Distinction in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus AB, including an A-level essay writing subject.

Note: Specific subject requirements and offer conditions may vary based on the applicant's profile—be sure to check the university's website for the most current entry requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of the BA Film Studies with Year Abroad programme are well-equipped for a variety of careers within the creative industries. Alumni may pursue roles in film production, screenwriting, film criticism, and cultural analysis, among others. The programme's strong emphasis on both theoretical and practical skills, combined with international experience, positions graduates for success in a dynamic job market.