The Film Studies MA will provide you with an exciting global approach to the study of film spanning a broad geographical area and to examine the historical development of film and related media. Focussing on cultural theory, through a wide variety of films, you will develop sophisticated approaches to current developments in the study of films and media around the world.
Introduction
The MA in Film Studies covers significant theoretical elements concerning the major trends, themes and methodological approaches in Film Studies. The modules on offer are diverse, dynamic and progressive in nature across both semesters. You will develop key transferrable skills in intercultural communication, academic writing, critical thinking and analytical skills.
Who is this course for?
This MA is designed for graduates and professionals from a variety of humanities and social science . Alternative qualifications may be considered, therefore if you are interested in this MA please get in contact with the MA programme lead who will be happy to discuss the course with you.
What you'll learn
Historical and cultural theories and approaches to global cinema
Up-to-date theoretical approaches, core methodologies and major research techniques in world cinema
Advanced interpretative skills in the study of film and other forms of screen media
The ability to critically analyse current problems and understand new insights at the forefront of global film studies
Knowledge of film movements historically and geographically understood.
Course content
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Semester one
*Please note that due to this being a new MA, modules and module structure are subject to final approval:
Students take 30 credits of required modules and 30 credits of optional modules in semester one.
Compulsory modules
WORLD CINEMAS (FILM501)
Credits: 30 /
Semester: semester 1
This module sees cinema as an inherently interconnected and global art form, and charts its development between diverse cultures from the early years of silent cinema to the present. It traces influences between film movements from different cultural contexts and across space and time to show that cinema is, and in a sense always was, a transnational, intercultural phenomenon.
The module will proceed chronologically, beginning with silent cinema, before charting a course through national cinema, commercial and arthouse movements, as well as lesser known cinematic revolutions of the twentieth century. We will conclude with a consideration of how the globalization and digitization of film and media industries are challenging traditional production, distribution and reception patterns in the present day.
As well as covering a number of key film movements and moments from around the world the module invites students to explore innovative forms of filmmaking. Film viewing and discussion will be supplemented by analysis of carefully selected film theory and criticism that is relevant to the topic under discussion.
These topics may vary depending on developments in academic research or the interests of the class, but throughout, the focus remains on drawing connections between mainstream film trends and their more radical counterparts throughout the world.
In each session, students will pay attention to three interconnected elements in their study of an assigned film or films for that week:
1. The movement, genre, style, theory or technology associated with the film;
2. Interdisciplinary context: the social and political framework in which it emerged, including how various audiences received the film;
3. Close reading techniques: understanding the conjunction of aesthetics and film form with the meaning and interpretation of the film.
Optional modules
CINEMA AND NARRATIVES OF FRENCH SOCIETY (FREN337)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
In this module we will look at the ways in which the French narrative cinema has portrayed its own society, and the extent to which it has contributed to the general cultural understanding of that society’s history, aspirations and problems.
FILM STUDIES WORK PLACEMENT (FILM509)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module offers a great opportunity to enhance your personal and professional development through work based learning . You will gain hands-on knowledge of the film, or related, industry. Please note, this module is dependent on the availability of work placements.
IDENTITY, POWER AND SOCIETY: CONTEMPORARY CRITICAL THEORY AND DISCOURSE (HLAC505)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module is designed to introduce students to the range and diversity of current research in languages and cultures. In individual sessions, students will be encouraged to consider the range of theoretical and methodological approaches which they could adopt in approaching their individual research projects. This module aims to provide students with an awareness of the key theoretical issues central to cultural studies, and to develop in them an understanding of current methodologies.
NEW TRENDS IN ITALIAN CINEMA (ITAL321)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module aims to introduce students to the new trends in contemporary Italian cinema and to the main relevant theoretical and critical approaches in the field.
RESEARCHING DIGITAL CULTURES IN THE AMERICAS (HISP348)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module develops research and critical skills when examining digital cultures with a particular focus on the Americas. It takes examples that encompass North, Central, and South America as well as the Caribbean. Building confidence in handling theoretical tools in the analysis of digital cultures it examines a range of professional and amateur content creators from social, institutional and personal perspectives and considers issues of curatorship, archival approaches, the ethics of (re)appropriation and remediation, and the relationship between the self and the public and private spheres.
Screen Cultures B (COMM744)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
Screen Cultures B introduces students to the diversity of cultural contexts and histories that have shaped the formal, industrial, institutional, and political meanings of cinema. The module examines both dominant/institutional and marginal/alternative screen cultures in relation to the formation of screen industries, histories, movements, and cultural identities.
Screen cultures are both an effect of production and reception. The module explores how screen cultures emerge and function, the formal and stylistic aspects that shape screen cultures, and the overlap between industries and audiences in the production of specific institutional, historical, critical, and audience-defined screen cultures. Screen Cultures A will introduce students to advanced film theory, industry and production studies, and film history alongside advanced formal analysis.
The Screen Cultures B syllabus is organized in two distinct blocks.
Block one: dominant and institutional screen cultures
The first block reflects the institutional or dominant screen cultures that are likely familiar to most audiences. These cultures are often understood through lay terms such as mainstream, popular, Hollywood, or art cinema. Their production and reception are defined by an understanding of screen cultures as an effect of industrial organizations and institutional practices.
Block two: marginal and alternative screen cultures
The second block of Screen Cultures A attends to the alternative and marginal screen cultures that have emerged beyond and outside of those dominant cinemas explored in block one. These screen cultures may be less familiar but have been central to particular audiences, political contexts, and sites of exhibition. Many of the screen cultures in this block seek to challenge the hegemony of those case studies from the first block.
In structuring the module in such a way, Screen Cultures B delivers a comprehensive overview of key debates surrounding screen cultures, especially cinema cultures, while also ensuring that it is inclusive given also its strong focus on diversity and alternative and marginal cultures.
THE GERMAN CINEMA SINCE 1990 (GRMN330)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
With films such as Nigendwo in Afrika (Nowhere in Africa, 2001), Good Bye, Lenin! (2003) and Das Leben der Anderen (The Lives of Others, 2005), German film has once more been greeted with international acclaim. However, in contrast to the ‘art house’ film-making of the New German Cinema of the 1960s and 1970s, today’s ‘post-Wall’ German cinema is resolutely commercial, employing genres and forms familiar to international audiences. This module offers an examination of key developments in German film since the 1990s. It traces the rise and international success of a German variant of the ‘heritage’ film in which the trauma of German history in the twentieth century – through the Third Reich, German division and the urban terrorism of the 1970s – is reimagined and mined as the source cinematic narratives. The module also explores a return to an ‘art-house’ film-making preoccupied with questions of realism and representation in the work of Andreas Dresen and the so-called Berlin School of film makers. All films are available with subtitles and the module is suitable both for students of German and students without German who are interested in film and its relation to society.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Semester two
*Please note that due to this being a new MA, modules and module structure are subject to final approval:
Students take 45 credits of required modules and 15 credits of optional modules in semester two.
Compulsory modules
GLOBAL FILM CULTURES (FILM502)
Credits: 30 /
Semester: semester 2
This module examines global film industries, platforms of distribution and contemporary developments in these different production contexts. It builds on students’ knowledge and skills gained in FILM501 World Cinemas and extends this through an approach to contemporary movements and currents in global film cultures. Drawing on a variety of local, national and transnational cinemas it focuses on current developments in, and critical approaches to global film cultures.
Film viewing and discussion will be supplemented by analysis of carefully selected film theory and criticism that is relevant to the topic under discussion.
These topics may vary depending on developments in academic research or the interests of the class, but the focus throughout will be on the analysis of a variety of different primary sources in context and informed by current theoretical debates and scholarship.
RESEARCH SKILLS AND FEASIBILITY STUDY (HLAC506)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
The module will prepare students for planning their research effectively and presenting it both within the department and to outside audiences. It will incorporate training in the specific skills required for framing a major piece of research at postgraduate level, along with personal, supervised preparation of a feasibility study for the dissertation which they will be writing and submitting in fulfilment of the MA degree.
Optional modules
AUDIOVISUAL TRANSLATION (HLAC507)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
Taking this module, students will become familiar with audiovisual translation theories and practices, with a focus on subtitling. Students will also learn how to subtitle from different perspectives: technical (e.g., programmes, time and space limitations), linguistic (e.g., genres, orality), inter-cultural. Subtitling will be explored as an intra- and inter-linguistic translation practice, and the module will have a practical focus, including the use of subtitling platforms and software.
PHILOSOPHY OF FILM (PHIL757)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module considers what it is to think philosophically about the nature of film. It critically discusses philosophical approaches to the medium. It examines the thinking of philosophers, critics and filmmakers on vital issues encountered when discussing film as art. It considers the importance of film and its relation to other art forms. It familiarises students with works by key filmmakers, and encourages students to engage with these works. The module will enhance students’ abilities to think critically about fundamental issues surrounding film, and about what philosophers, critics and filmmakers have said about the medium. It is taught through weekly seminars (1 hour per week) and film screenings. Assessment is by one 3,000 word essay.
Redefining Television (COMM750)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module will focus on the immense changes that have occurred in the field of television with a view to understand the nature, role and function of the medium in the 21st century. Focusing on industrial, institutional, representational and textual issues it will engage with questions such as: the changing nature of television studies as a discipline; its changing role from home to mobile entertainment; the impact of VOD and on-demand services; the ways form and consumption of tv are changing; formats and transnational production; reboot, remake and cult television; and issues of representation as part of changes in TV formats, production and consumption.
SCREENING LIVERPOOL (FILM503)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
Liverpool has a rich history on film and TV. There is also a rich archive of filmed material of the city that demonstrates the changing physical and social spaces of the city. This module will introduce students to some of those key representations of Liverpool on film and television. Students will have practical sessions in an editing suite to introduce them to the technologies available to create their own AV essays or short films.
SCREENING SPAIN: CONTEMPORARY SPANISH FILM AND TELEVISION (HISP344)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module explores themes in contemporary Spanish films and television, within their broader sociohistorical, political and industrial contexts. It examines the ways in which television and film respond to and to intervene in key moments, social crises and issues in contemporary Spain. As well as providing an in-depth knowledge and understanding of Spanish film and television, the module will develop an ability to apply close analysis of film and television texts, and relate this to broader theories in cultural and media studies to understand the context and significance of media texts in the shaping of public debates.
SCREENING TEXTS (MODL328)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
A large proportion of films are based on written texts and this module will introduce you to a range of cinematic adaptations of literary works from across Modern Languages. Using adaptation theory to inform your analysis, you will have the opportunity to study excerpts from texts and consider the issues that arise from their adaptation as films. How does cinema convey a sense of the past or modify literary works from a different time period? How does it represent the gender roles which can be a central preoccupation of literature? How does film transcend language boundaries to bring modern-language texts to new audiences? On this module you will have the opportunity to explore these areas whilst also developing skills in film analysis, journalistic writing and academic writing.
TRANSNATIONAL CINEMA (FILM301)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
The concept of transnational cinema is an important and exciting framework through which the interconnections between film cultures and filmmakers can be explored. While the nation was the dominant model through which film was viewed for many decades, recent criticism has acknowledged that in a globalized world, looking at how film crosses geographical, linguistic, industrial and cultural borders is more important than ever. Transnational cinema also addresses a particular set of themes, centered around pressing global concerns: climate change, terrorism, migration and border crossing, diasporic identities, postcolonialism, memory and loss, and changing models of gender and sexuality in an interconnected world. This module invites students to consider these themes in films from multiple geographical locations, encompassing Mexico/Spain, US/Pakistan, UK/India, Korea/UK, and Iran/France, among other.
In class, we will always pay attention to how these films cross borders: in terms of cast and crew, themes, production, distribution and aesthetics.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Final Project
*Please note that due to this being a new MA, modules and module structure are subject to final approval:
The Final Project FILM507 will be taken over the summer vacation period.
Compulsory modules
DISSERTATION (FILM507)
Credits: 60 /
Semester: summer
The dissertation is a self-contained piece of individual and original research, offering the student the chance to study in-depth a topic that interests them guided by a member of the Department’s academic staff as their supervisor. Teaching and learning takes place through one-to-one tutorials. The key aims of the module are: to enable the student to construct an extended research project on an appropriate topic which is clear and realistic in scope and seeks to make a distinct contribution to the student’s chosen field; to develop independent research skills; and to develop professional standards for the presentation of research material. It will usually be related to a topic covered in the student’s Masters programme and can be tailored so that the research is relevant to a future career. Research for the dissertation will usually be standard academic research, but (with the permission of your programme leader) you may also be able to produce a more creative output or engage with more experimental methodologies. Meetings with supervisors are organized by the student and fortnightly meetings are recommended, although the number of meetings will vary, depending on your individual requirements and dissertation topic.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
How you'll learn
We offer a variety of teaching methods such as lecturer-led teaching in modules that also promote your independent reading and research and promote the development of skills that will enhance your employability and future success. Digital fluency is embedded across all modules in our teaching strategies, approaches to film and (in some cases) assessments. Alongside the taught modules, the MA also involves supervised elements which support you to complete an extended piece of writing and their final project through dedicated ono-to-one supervision. Given the nature of the programme, independent study constitutes an important part of the MA course. In independent study time, you are required to carry out independent viewing, reading and research based on the tutors’ guidance.
How you're assessed
A range of assessment strategies are used within the MA programme. These include essays, presentations, reports, journals, conference-style presentations, short films, AV essays and the design of the final project.
Liverpool Hallmarks
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
Course options
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
The Department of Languages, Cultures and Film is part of the School of Histories, Languages and Cultures, with departments steeped in history and disciplines which have been taught for over a century. You will join a lively community with colleagues from all disciplines collaborating through institutional research groups and forums.
Support for students with differing needs from the Disability advice and guidance team. They can identify and recommend appropriate support provisions for you.
The MA in Film Studies provides practical insights as well as transferrable skills for a successful career in a variety of sectors and different roles. The industry specific knowledge that you can acquire from a Film Studies MA will prepare you for a range of film-related careers in production, distribution, marketing, film writing and more broadly in media-related careers locally, nationally and internationally. Authentic, research-connected teaching and the development of digital skills mean graduates are equipped to pursue employment in the creative and digital industries or cultural sector more broadly.
The combination of theoretical and practical training on the MA programme also paves the way for advanced students wishing to conduct postgraduate research (e.g. PhD) in Film, Media or Screen Studies.
Career support from day one to graduation and beyond
Film and media companies (development, finance, marketing, distribution, exhibition, retail)
Writing for film related publications (trade press, newspapers, journals, blogs)
Film-related organisations (film festivals, film offices, film institutes, film libraries, film archives).
Fees and funding
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Tuition fees
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year
£11,700
Part-time place, per year
£5,850
International fees
Full-time place, per year
£24,100
Part-time place, per year
£12,050
Fees stated are for the 2025-26 academic year.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about fees and funding.
Additional costs
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
We accept a 2:2 honours degree from a UK university, or an equivalent academic qualification from a similar non-UK institution. This degree should be in Film, Languages or any other subject informed by an Arts and Humanities tradition. Alternatively, an applicant may have a degree in another subject and appropriate postgraduate experience and/or employment.
International qualifications
International requirements TBC – please contact the Postgraduate Admissions team for details.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
English language qualification
Requirements
IELTS
6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0
TOEFL iBT
88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 19, writing 19, reading 19 and speaking 20. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted.
Duolingo English Test
120 overall, with no component below 105
Pearson PTE Academic
61 overall, with no component below 59
LanguageCert Academic
70 overall, with no skill below 65
PSI Skills for English
B2 Pass with Merit in all bands
INDIA Standard XII
National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English.
WAEC
C6 or above
PRE-SESSIONAL ENGLISH
Do you need to complete a Pre-Sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-Sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Contact us
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