Program Overview

Film Studies (Placement Year) BA Hons

The Film Studies (Placement Year) BA Hons program at Lancaster University is a four-year undergraduate degree that combines academic study with a year-long placement in the film industry. This program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of film history, theory, and practice, as well as practical experience in the field.

Overview

The program covers a wide range of topics, including film history, theory, and criticism, as well as practical skills in film production, screenwriting, and editing. Students will have the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, including a professional standard film studio, editing suites, and a cinema.

Top Reasons to Study with Us

• Access to British Film Institute resources
• Access to cutting-edge film equipment, including Black Magic 4K cameras
• Opportunities to engage with community screenings and events at The Dukes Cinema

Why Lancaster?

• Deepen your knowledge of global film history while gaining practical film-making experience
• Benefit from 24/7 access to editing suites and specialist equipment
• Gain inspiration from a team of distinguished academics, passionate filmmakers, and experienced industry professionals
• Immerse yourself in Lancaster's stunning surroundings, providing an ideal film setting
• Equip yourself for an exciting career in film production, the creative industries, and related professions

Film from All Angles

The program dives into the fascinating world of film, studying cinema and its history from international perspectives. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of the development of cinema, from Victorian novelty films to the thriving global industries of the 21st century.

First-Class Resources

Students will have access to top-of-the-line production equipment, allowing them to create their own short films. The program's specialist production facilities and purpose-built workshop offer everything needed to master the essentials of digital video and audio production.

A Creative Community

Studying at Lancaster offers a lively, creative community that extends from the campus to the city's Castle Quarter and beyond. Students can participate in the student-run cinema Take2, show their films at The Dukes, or engage with the city's vibrant program of annual literary and music events.

Your Placement Year

The placement year is an excellent way to try out a role, build a professional network, and develop skills, knowledge, and experience. Students will spend their third year in a graduate-level position, working for between nine and twelve months in a role that might be considered for after graduation.

Careers

The film industry is constantly evolving, with new roles and technologies transforming how content is created and consumed. The Film Studies program is designed to equip students with a versatile skill set, preparing them for careers in film production, media, and the creative industries.

Entry Requirements

• A levels: ABB, with Film, Media, or one other humanities subject considered desirable but not essential
• Access to HE Diploma: 30 Level 3 credits at Distinction plus 15 Level 3 credits at Merit
• International Baccalaureate: 32 points overall with 16 points from the best 3 HL subjects
• GCSE requirements: No specific GCSE requirements, but the overall GCSE profile will be considered as part of the application
• English language requirements: IELTS score of 6.5 overall with at least 5.5 in each component

Course Structure

The program is structured over four years, with the third year spent on a placement. The first two years cover core modules such as Introduction to Film Studies, British Cinema, and Screens and Selves. The final year includes an Independent Project, where students can undertake a traditional written dissertation, an individual practice-based project, or a small group practical project.

Fees and Funding

• Home fees: Ł9,790 for the 2026/27 academic year
• International fees: Ł25,490 for the 2026/27 academic year
• Additional costs: Students may need to pay for books, stationery, printing, and other materials, as well as a college membership fee

Scholarships and Bursaries

Lancaster University offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to undergraduate students, including the Lancaster Bursary, Undergraduate Excellence Scholarship, and International Undergraduate Excellence Scholarship.

Similar Courses

• Film and Creative Writing BA Hons
• Film and English Literature BA Hons
• Film Studies BA Hons
• Film, Media and Cultural Studies BA Hons

Important Information

The University reserves the right to make changes to advertised courses in exceptional circumstances. Students are advised to check the University's website for the most up-to-date course information before applying.