| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2026-09-01 | - |
| 2026-01-01 | - |
Program Overview
Introduction to the Film Studies with Audio-Visual PhD
The University of Birmingham offers a practice-based Film Studies with Audio-Visual PhD, allowing students to enhance their film-making skills and explore the use of film to interrogate, teach, and learn about the world. This program is supported by academics specializing in Film Studies, media technicians, and screenwriters.
Course Overview
The Film Studies with Audio-Visual PhD is a three-year full-time or six-year part-time program that culminates in an original piece of film and a critical analysis. Students will bring together their creative, technical, and critical abilities to complete the PhD.
Course Structure
The program typically takes three years to complete full-time or six years part-time. The first year includes a literature review specific to the student's documentary film and written defense topic, as well as relevant training and the beginning of research.
Research Themes
Staff research in the Department of Film and Creative Writing is diverse, innovative, and dynamic, covering critical and creative practice. Research areas include the aesthetic, historical, and theoretical contexts of literature and film, as well as creative practice as research.
Entry Requirements
To apply for the PhD, students usually require a good Honours degree or equivalent qualification, typically in a relevant area. A Masters qualification at Merit level or above is also required, usually in a relevant area. International students must demonstrate a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through IELTS or equivalent qualifications.
English Language Requirements
International students must have IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, or equivalent qualifications such as TOEFL, Pearson Test of English, or Cambridge English.
Fees and Scholarships
The tuition fee for the PhD program is £5,181 for full-time students and £2,591 for part-time students. The University offers various scholarships and funding options, including the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) Landscape Awards, College of Arts and Law Doctoral Scholarships, and Wolfson Postgraduate Scholarships in the Humanities.
Application Process
To apply for the PhD program, students must submit their application and supporting documents online. They should identify a potential supervisor and contact them before submitting their application. The research proposal should be a clear and concise summary of the proposed research project, including main research questions and methods.
Research Proposal
The research proposal should be 1,000-1,500 words for Arts programs and around 2,500 words for Law programs. It should illustrate the relevance of the topic to the research interests and expertise of the staff within the chosen department.
Career Opportunities
The University of Birmingham is the top choice for the UK's major employers searching for graduate recruits. The Careers Network offers dedicated careers support tailored to individual paths, including one-to-one guidance, careers fairs, and links with leading graduate recruiters.
Related Courses
Related courses include the Film Studies PhD/MA by Research and the Film and Television: Research and Production MA.
Student Experience
The University of Birmingham offers a variety of accommodation options, exciting activities to get involved in outside of studies, and support and advice for postgraduate researchers. The campus is green and spacious, with state-of-the-art facilities and a range of historic and modern spaces.
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