Film Studies

8th in the UK for our research outputs in Communications, Cultural and Media Studies in REF 2021 (Times Higher Education)

16th in the UK for Communication and Media Studies (Complete University Guide 2025)

About your course
Explore film from a variety of critical perspectives and understand film’s unique position in the media landscape.

On this MA, we examine the aesthetic, industrial, cultural and political dimensions of a diverse range of film practices. You’ll develop your skills in research and critical thinking through an exciting range of innovative options. You also research a topic of your choice in the supervised dissertation project.

We offer an advanced introduction to theoretical debates associated with the study of cinema, and contemporary approaches that are reshaping the field.

You’re taught by experts specialising in areas such as:
- gender and sexuality

- global cinema

- popular culture

- documentary and experimental film

- animals and the media

- audience studies.

Brighton has a vibrant film culture, playing host to the annual CINECITY Film Festival. It is also home to one of the UK's oldest purpose-built cinemas – the Duke of York’s.

About Sussex
Our courses, research, culture and campus aim to stimulate, excite and challenge. From scientific discovery to global policy, from student welfare to career development, Sussex innovates and takes a lead. And today, in every part of society and across the world, you'll find someone from Sussex making an original and valuable contribution.

Location
Study on our beautiful, green campus on the edge of the South Downs National Park and just minutes from the vibrant seaside city of Brighton & Hove. We’re near to Gatwick airport and just over an hour from London.