About Film Studies
What is Film Studies?
Film Studies is an exciting discipline that understands film's emotional and intellectual appeal. In this field, we examine the role of film form and narrative in the production of meaning and we explore the relationship of film to aesthetic, technological and cultural contexts. We recognise film's unique status as art form, cultural institution, social tool, technology, and industry, which provides a number of possible analytical routes for exploration.
It is not a practical programme teaching technical skills for filmmaking. Students in Film Studies will develop excellent intellectual, writing and research skills and, by the end of their studies, will be familiar with the most important works of cinematic art at large as well as the workings of the film industry in numerous national (and transnational) settings.
Why Film Studies?
In our increasingly media-saturated culture, the need for media literacy is crucial and the opportunities for Film Studies graduates are remarkably diverse. Directly related are careers in academia, creative industries, development, distribution, film festival/ cinema programming, and arts administration.
A Film Studies degree opens doors to many other spheres, including media management, film and TV research, journalism, publishing, advertising, cultural entrepreneurship, non-governmental organisations, marketing, public relations and education.
A new discipline for the University, Film Studies at St. Andrews is among the most attractive subjects on offer. The course is open to those who have had no previous experience of learning about cinema as well as those who may have studied film and media subjects at school.