Film Studies MA

University of Leeds

This course combines the theory and history of cinema with the study of the industry and artistic practices that inform filmmaking. It gives you the opportunity to explore your interests in film history, global cinema, contemporary film, and cinema’s key role in modern society. We take a world cinematic approach to film that speaks to the University's commitment to decolonisation and global citizenship. We have particular expertise in videoessay production and festival curating. Through the core module (Film Arts and Industries), you’ll be acquainted with the theoretical, historical and cultural approaches to the medium of film and institution of cinema, and you’ll investigate the variety of skills and activities around film as an art, as well as cinema as an industry. The independent project will allow you to specialise in your own interests in a way that will serve your intellectual and creative aspirations and career goals. Working with a specialist academic, you can choose to write a dissertation based on research into a film/cinema topic, or you can choose to combine a shorter dissertation with a creative or practice-based activity appropriate to your interests and skills. The School of Languages, Cultures and Societies also offers scholarship and funding opportunities. Leeds and FilmBoth Leeds and neighbouring Bradford have longstanding traditions in the promotion of cinema and have more recently taken the lead in the promotion of local digital culture. Leeds hosts a major international film festival every autumn and boasts a historic art-house cinema, the Hyde Park Picture House. The National Media Museum (formerly the National Museum of Photography, Film and Television) is in nearby Bradford, which also houses the National New Media Collection. Watch a playlist of videos showcasing the film expertise of our staff and researchers at Leeds.