Current postgraduates

For information and advice on all matters related to postgraduate teaching and learning in Film Studies, download the Film Studies Taught Postgraduate Handbook 2011/12.

The Department of Film Studies offers three degree programmes at the postgraduate level.

MLitt

One year, 120 credits (three taught modules: a core module focusing on training in research methods (60 credits) and two specialist modules), and a dissertation of no more than 15,000 words, submitted in August. Emphasis throughout the year is placed on independent research with the summer months being devoted entirely to dissertation preparation.

Note: A graduate diploma version of the MLitt programme exists with 120 credits and no dissertation.

MPhil

Two years with 120 credits (three taught modules: a core module focusing on training in research methods (60 credits) and two specialist modules), over two semesters, supplemented with a thesis of no more than 40,000 words. The thesis is prepared during the second year of full-time study and is a major element in the MPhil course.

Specialist modules change year on year, please consult with the department with regard to which modules will be on offer in any one year.

PhD

Four years of work on your own research project.

In addition a range of other opportunities exist. In this programme, we encourage teaching practice to further your professionalisation. This involves opportunities to work as a seminar tutor in subhonours modules, typically from your second year onwards.

We also offer a £300 annual travel fund (subject to annual budget confirmation) for conference travel and other related expenses, and an annual £100 library book/DVD fund (again subject to confirmation).

Our students are encouraged to seek funding and to contribute to our robust research environment by giving talks at the Centre for Film Studies. For example, we offer experience of organising events like the annual Film Studies Postgraduate Conferences and the Study Day (including applying for internal funding), experience giving shorter papers at conferences and longer papers for the Centre for Film Studies, dedicated in-house workshops on various aspects of academic life in Film Studies, etc. If you wish to hone your research methods, it is possible to sit in on the core module, FM5001.

For a brief breakdown of the milestones of a four year PhD, click here for "What is a PhD?"