Program Overview

PhD Film Studies

Overview

The PhD Film Studies program at the University of Essex offers supervision in all areas of staff research expertise, including global film and media, world cinemas, film history, film theory, comparative and new media, festivals and media platforms, and contexts of film and media production and reception. The program enables students to undertake research that is interdisciplinary and innovative in nature, supported by regular contact with a supervisor and advisory board.

Entry Requirements

• UK Entry Requirements: A good Masters degree or equivalent in a related subject. Some applicants may be accepted based on an outstanding honors degree. A well-developed research proposal is essential. Applicants will normally be required to attend an interview.
• International & EU Entry Requirements: The university accepts a wide range of qualifications from applicants studying in the EU and other countries. English language requirements: IELTS 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in writing, or equivalent.

Structure

• Course Structure: A research degree doesn't have a taught structure, allowing students to investigate their chosen topic in depth. The program enables students to develop new high-level skills, enhance professional development, and build new networks.
• Assessment: Students are encouraged to plan their work to submit their thesis for examination by the end of three years. The assessment process includes regular supervisory board meetings and a final oral examination.

Fees and Funding

• Home/UK Fee: ｣5,006 per year
• International Fee: ｣19,650 per year
• Scholarships and Financial Support: There may be scholarships, bursaries, or discounts available to help with the cost of the course.

What's Next

• Open Days: The university holds Open Days for applicants throughout the year, providing an opportunity to tour the campus, find out more about the courses, and meet students and staff.
• Applying: Applications can be made online. The university encourages preliminary enquiries directly to a potential supervisor or the Graduate Administrator.

Related Courses

• MPhil Film Studies: Available in full-time and part-time study modes, located at the Colchester Campus.
• MA (by Dissertation) Film Studies: Available in full-time and part-time study modes, located at the Colchester Campus.

Research Areas

The Department of Literature, Film, and Theatre Studies offers a wide range of research areas, including but not limited to:

• Global film and media
• World cinemas
• Film history
• Film theory
• Comparative and new media
• Festivals and media platforms
• Contexts of film and media production and reception

Specialist Facilities

• The department has a dedicated 120-seat film theatre with digital HD projection facilities.
• A substantial collection of videos and DVDs is available for student borrowing, complemented by the extensive audio-visual holdings in the University's Albert Sloman Library.
• The Centre for Film and Screen Media coordinates weekly screenings and other film and media-related activities.

Your Future

Graduates have gone on to successful careers in production, academia, and other fields. The program provides students with the opportunity to develop new high-level skills, enhance their professional development, and build new networks, opening doors to many careers.