Film and Media Studies

Film and media studies focuses on the in-depth exploration of both cinematic and media forms, from the established to the new and emergent, from TV to games.

Taught by a large team with a diverse range of interests, you’ll have access to cutting-edge research expertise and excellent resources in a department as dedicated to supporting students as it is to inspiring them.

Film units introduce you to the history of cinema and its many forms and genres. This course will broaden your horizons from Anglo-American film to world cinemas, and develop your skills as a critical interpreter of the cinematic text. Media units explore the development of media industries, forms and criticism, but focus particularly on current and emerging platforms and industries. In your final year you can explore your interests in depth by completing an independent project on a topic of your own choice, working with academics who are experts in their fields.

The creative industries sector in Manchester offers a broad range of opportunities in professions linked to film and media. The city is an excellent place to study this subject and to begin gaining experience and building your networks. We’ll help you to be ready for the world beyond university by giving you the opportunity to engage with external partners by working on live briefs on our Media industry unit.

You may have the chance to study abroad as part of your course, or to spend a year on a placement in industry in Britain or abroad.*

This course is also available with a foundation year.

*Placement and/or study abroad options may be available, potentially extending the duration of study up to 4 years. Study abroad will be subject to any international travel restrictions and/or availability.

Features and Benefits

Our units cover the historical and critical analysis of cinema, television and other media from the early 20th Century to very contemporary releases.

Explore both mainstream ‘Hollywood’ style cinema and less commercial screen cultures from around the globe.

We are a world-class English department — 70% of our research impact is rated as world-leading (REF21).

Manchester is an ideal location with links to the professional media bodies in the North West, including HOME, Grimmfest, Media City UK, the BBC and Granada TV. We use the media resources, business and industries of the city to make our content and assessment current, engaging and outward facing.

Our Media Industry unit allows you to work on professional live briefs with partners in industries such as cinema, game production, marketing, podcasting, radio and television.

We’ll help you build your own network among our many partners within the creative and culturally rich city of Manchester, including the opportunity to connect with alumni.

The Department of English is friendly, supportive, and passionate about the subject, providing a creative, inspiring and stimulating environment for our students. We have an excellent library and range of resources to allow you to develop a wide range of skills.

Access to the many film and media focussed conferences, readings, research programmes, festivals and competitions run by the department.

Manchester has been designated a UNESCO City of Literature in recognition of its thriving live literature scene, with a year-round programme of author events, writers’ forums, networking opportunities and open mic nights.

You can take the four-year route, spending a year studying abroad, or boost your career prospects with a placement in industry.