Swansea University

What you'll study

The programme blends film history, critical theory and practical production across three years. In early stages you study core topics such as film and visual culture, introduction to film theory, basic production skills (camera, sound, editing) and digital media practice. Teaching covers the moving image in cultural, social and historical contexts, including genres, auteurs, documentary, and global cinemas.

In the middle years you choose optional modules that typically include screenwriting, documentary production, film and visual culture in the contemporary media landscape, gender and representation on screen, and archival and curatorial practices. Practical work increases with collaborative short film projects, portfolio development and advanced editing and post-production modules.

The final year emphasises independent research and a substantial major project: students usually complete either a long-form written dissertation or a practice-based film project accompanied by a contextual essay. Assessment methods combine essays, presentations, critical analyses, production portfolios and screened projects, preparing graduates for both creative and analytical roles.

• Core skills: film history, critical analysis, research methods, screenwriting, production (camera, lighting, sound), editing and post-production.
• Typical modules: Introduction to Film and Visual Culture; Film Theory and Historiography; Digital Production Skills; Documentary and Non-fiction Practice; Screenwriting; Genre and National Cinemas; Archive and Curatorial Practice; Major Project/Dissertation.
• Learning experience: seminars, workshops, practical labs, screenings, guest lectures and supervised independent research.

Entry requirements

Swansea University looks for applicants with a mix of academic achievement and creative potential. Typical entry profiles include successful completion of a secondary-school qualification such as A-levels or an equivalent national qualification. Applicants are usually expected to demonstrate competence in humanities or arts subjects at a level comparable to university entry requirements.

Other accepted qualifications include BTEC, International Baccalaureate, or relevant vocational diplomas. Mature applicants and those with Access to Higher Education qualifications are welcome; relevant portfolio work, personal statements and references strengthen applications. Proficiency in English is required for international applicants, demonstrated through recognised English language tests when applicable.

Additional guidance: some applicants may be asked to submit a short portfolio or written sample showing engagement with film or visual media, and a personal statement explaining their interest and experience in the subject.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of creative, cultural and media roles. Practical training and critical study prepare students for jobs such as production assistant, assistant editor, camera operator, scriptreader, content creator, and freelance filmmaker. Analytical and research skills open pathways to film criticism, programming for festivals and cinemas, curatorial work in galleries and archives, and roles in broadcasting and digital media organisations.

Other common destinations include roles in marketing and communications, arts administration, cultural heritage, and further academic study (MA, PhD) in film, media and cultural studies. The degree equips graduates with transferable skills valued in many sectors: project management, written and verbal communication, teamworking and digital production competencies.

Why study at Swansea University

Swansea offers a supportive environment with small-group teaching and strong staff-student contact. Students benefit from on-campus screening facilities and the Taliesin Arts Centre, which provides opportunities to see a wide range of film and live programme events. The university emphasises an interdisciplinary approach, connecting film studies with broader visual culture, literature, and media practice.

Practical provision includes access to production equipment, editing suites and workshops, while teaching staff bring research expertise in film history, theory and contemporary media practice. There are opportunities for industry links, placements and collaborative projects that help build professional experience and a portfolio of work during the degree.