Film Studies

We’re proud to be one of the longest-established film studies courses in the UK. You’ll study a wide range of disciplines, from critical thinking skills to genre films – all while examining the changing face of the cinema industry. You’ll have hands-on opportunities to develop a rich professional profile and gain specialist skills in film programming, film education and film journalism.

How you learn

Our team of experts will help you gain in-depth knowledge while nurturing the skills you need – in everything from film criticism to festival curation. When you’re ready, we’ll introduce you to our professional network, opening real-world opportunities for you to gain experience in the film and cultural industries.

Applied learning

Work placements and live projects

You’ll collaborate with a wide network of industry, charity, and community partners — showcasing your knowledge and skills. You’ll work independently and in diverse teams at each stage of your study, bringing your ideas to life in response to real briefs. In your second year you’ll curate and build your professional profile, by taking a credit-bearing placement in collaboration with one of our partners that connects your work with audiences.

Field trips

We run regular field trips to film festivals and cinema visits. Our students have visited Berlin Film Festival, Salford MediaCity, Bradford WideScreen Weekend, BFI Southbank, and participated in Sheffield Doc/Fest, Celluloid Screams, Sensoria, and Festival of Debate.

Networking opportunities

We work with nationally and internationally renowned festivals such as Doc/Fest, Celluloid Screams, and Off the Shelf, as well as bringing leading talent in film programming, film journalism, and film festival organisers to Sheffield to work with our students. You’ll benefit from regular networking opportunities and masterclass events, and get a head start into the creative industries.

We invite specialist speakers from different cultural sectors to talk to our students about professional careers in film.

We’ve previously welcomed:

We have a strong alumni network and will encourage you to connect with a variety of external partners to better understand the career and professional opportunities open to you. Our careers services are available from your very first day and support you beyond graduation. Expert advisers can help you discover future careers, develop your professional skills, and help you to stand out when you apply for jobs.

You will have the opportunity to arrange a year-long work placement in between your second and third years. This gives you a real-world experience to prepare you for your future career.