Overview
Do you enjoy watching films and TV shows, and wonder what goes on behind the scenes to bring the stories to life? Do you want to work in the industry where you could make the next blockbuster or TV series? If so, the Film and Television Studies BA at Brunel is the course for you.
Your degree will give you a thorough understanding of film by combining the production with the theory of visual digital media. Delve into practical film and video-making, scriptwriting, filming and editing, whilst honing your critical analysis and research skills to develop a comprehensive understanding of how the film and TV industries work.
You will benefit from our fantastic editing suites which have up-to-date production software including: Adobe Creative Cloud; Avid Media Composer; Avid ProTools, and; Final Cut Pro. We also have a range of high quality camera, sound, lighting, and grip equipment ready for you to use. These resources will allow you to bring your ideas, thoughts and creations to life.
To complement your learning you’ll watch weekly screenings of a film or programme relevant to the topic being studied followed by a lecture that covers some of the key ideas and theories of film and television. After the lecture you have the opportunity to contribute to group discussions and share ideas with others in your seminars. This format allows you to develop a strong understanding of what goes into the entertainment on our screens, and gives you the opportunity to collaborate and share ideas with your peers.
Brunel University London and the British Film Institute (BFI), have entered a partnership that will see students in Brunel’s Film Studies programmes have access to the BFI’s film streaming service, as well as to professional development opportunities that will boost their employability. The creative partnership, which started on 1 September 2023, is part of the BFI’s initiative to collaborate with higher education institutions with strengths in media education, research, and innovation.
As well as enhancing your learning by attending screenings at the British Film Institute, the Institute of Contemporary Arts and other cinemas across the capital, you will also be eligible to enter our annual Brunel University Film Festival (BUFF) with categories including Best Fiction, Best Non-Fiction and Best Overall Film. This will allow you to put what you have learnt into practice and will give you the opportunity to showcase your talent.
Learn with confidence knowing that you are taught by some of the best film academics in the UK. Not only are they experts in the industry, but they have published work in the field so some of the books on your reading list may be written by those teaching you. You can find out more about our team here.
The Film and Television Studies BA is a part of the BAFTA albert education partnership. This accreditation provides students with exclusive access to the industry’s BAFTA albert carbon calculator, a tool used by Netflix, BBC, ITV, Channel 4, UKTV and Sky when producing their content. Participating students will work towards creating environmentally-friendly, sustainable content. Upon completion you will be presented with industry-recognised certification and become an official “BAFTA albert graduate”. This opportunity is provided at no extra cost.
We have excellent links with a wide range of notable external organisations, so you will have the opportunity to apply for high quality placements across London. For more information see Year 3 content, or visit our placement page to explore the one-year work placement.
If you decide to do postgraduate study, this course provides you with skills to succeed including developing an idea and seeing it through to the end, project management skills, ability to work in a team and individually and an ability to analyse your own work.
You will graduate with the confidence to be a creative and imaginative cultural producer with solid knowledge of film culture and practical experience which will put you in good stead for your future career.
Course content
On this innovative course you will develop an understanding of how film and television products work, and will gain key practical and transferable skills vital in this competitive job market.
For your practical modules you’ll have access to state-of-the-art equipment including high-quality cameras, lighting, sound, and grip equipment. You’ll also learn to edit in our edit suites which run Avid Media Composer, Adobe Creative Cloud, Avid ProTools, and Final Cut Pro.
Compulsory
- The Craft of Filmmaking
With the central aim of developing your creative and technical skills, this module will introduce you to the vocabulary, concepts and equipment needed in film production. You will work collaboratively with your peers to train with our technical and academic staff as well as engage in all aspects of storytelling. This is where you begin your journey learning the conventions and practices of filmmaking with our industry standard equipment.
- The Professional Self
This module engages students in their own professional development. Throughout the module, you will take part in scheduled professional development sessions, for instance camera training, edit training, and CV workshops. Throughout the module there will be an emphasis on developing professional behaviours such as timekeeping, attendance, participation, organisation and communication. You will also have the opportunity to engage with students in other levels of study and learn to effectively work in a team.
- Technology, Industry and Form
Sometimes we might become preoccupied with film and television as an artform, which is important. But we also need to consider developments in the industry in terms of economic models, and changes in technology and context. This module examines how film developed in terms of sound, colour, the development of the classical Hollywood system, and where we are today in terms of industry models. We will also look at television from the broadcast era through to contemporary streaming services today.
- Representation and Identity
It’s important in the film and television industry to consider whose stories are being told, who is in creative roles behind the camera and how people are being represented. This module will explore identity politics and consider theory such as feminism, queer theory, postcolonialism and disability studies, among others. We will consider how certain identities are portrayed onscreen both historically and now.
- Creative Project Development
- Film and TV Analysis
Uncover some of the core skills in analysing and reading film and television texts. This module focuses particularly on how we might understand film and television in terms of the context of its production and reception. We will carefully consider the importance of social, cultural and political contextual relationships with film and television products.
Compulsory
- Critical Perspectives
Theoretical perspectives are at the core of this module, giving you the frameworks you will need to read and make meaning from film and television. We will consider feminism, structuralism and post-structuralism, Marxism among many other approaches we might take to understanding film and television.
- Professional Practice
This module aims to build on the content of the level 4 module The Professional Self, further engaging students in their own professional development. There will be an emphasis on the professional world, looking at freelancing, setting up a business, insurance, ethics, and tax.
Throughout the module there will be an emphasis on further developing their own professional behaviours such as leadership, risk assessment, timekeeping, attendance, participation, organisation and communication, as well as mentoring students from level 4 through the development of their professional behaviours.
Optional
- Film and Television Genres
- World Cinemas
Interested in exploring the dynamic relationships that exist between different cinemas from different places? Then this option is for you. We will consider a range of world cinemas from the Global South, Asia and beyond. We will consider global art and alternative cinemas as well as more mainstream practices, considering films in terms of globalisation and the transnational, as well as the regional and the national.
- Understanding the Film and TV Industries
- Animation
Firstly, this module will allow you to explore the medium specificity of animation, the range of techniques available, as well as different industries and their development. We will then go on to teach you a range of animation production skills which will allow you to create your own short form animation in a style and medium of your choosing.
- Filmmaking as Activism
Students will explore the role that film plays in advocacy, activism and social justice. The purpose of this module is to provide opportunities for students to create a portfolio of moving image work that has been developed to address social injustice. Students will explore the role of corporate, NGO, commercial and independent filmmaking, as well as looking at campaigns and distribution strategies. Students will work in a team and contribute to decision making processes.
- Film and TV Adaptation
A production-based module, you will be able to explore the process of adaptation from a variety of sources to the screen. Developing your creative skills you will consider many forms of storytelling and character construction as well as developing your production filmmaking skills.
Compulsory
- Analysis of Film and Television Work Experience
As part of our employability strand this module will give you a large range of guest talks from people that work across many different parts of the creative industries. Many of the guest speakers are Film@Brunel alumni. You will also have the opportunity to undertake your own work placement as part of this module allowing you to develop both your employability and networking skills.
- Video Essay Dissertation in Film and Television Studies
Optional
- Gender and Sexuality
This module is largely led by feminist theory and queer theory where we examine a range of identities onscreen in relation to gender and sexuality. A number of case studies are examined across the module from historical examples to more contemporary work.
- The Horror Film
This module provides students with an in-depth examination of the horror genre across both film and television. Critical frameworks and theories relevant to the study of horror will be explored in depth across a range of case studies from historical and more contemporary contexts, as well as from a range of global contexts.
- Documentary: Image and Violence
This module will give you the skills to analyse cinematic representations of violence and develop a critical awareness of different types of violence in relation to warfare and military technology. You will gain skills in developing insights into visual themes, narrative structures and techniques used in moving images’ engagements with violence. You will also have the opportunity to develop techniques for the use of found footage to research and communicate different types of violence.
- Alternative Film and Video Practice
If you are interested in alternative or more experimental approaches to filmmaking, then this module is for you. Exploring a range of examples from distinct periods of filmmaking history, this module will also allow you to creative your own experimental film. You will also examine connections between the economic, formal-aesthetic and social-political aspects of these alternative practices.
This course can be studied undefined undefined, starting in undefined.
This course has a placement option. Find out more about work placements available.
Please note that all modules are subject to change.
Read more about the structure of undergraduate degrees at Brunel.
Careers and your future
During your work experience you’ll gain training and skills in your area of interest and get insight into the working practices of film and media organisations. You’ll develop the problem-solving and management skills required to succeed in your future career.
We have extensive links with employers and industry and you’ll benefit from our networks to arrange your work placement. We can also support you in approaching a business of your choice.
Our graduates have secured jobs with companies including BBC, ITV, Granada, Amazon Prime, Framestore and Ridley Scott Associates as casting agents, researchers, production assistants and film officers.
As well as gaining excellent academic knowledge throughout your studies, emphasis is placed on gaining transferable employment skills. You will develop communication, report writing and presentation skills to an excellent level, equipping you for a range of subsequent professional careers or onto further study should you wish to pursue postgraduate study.
Brunel’s Professional Development Centre is a dedicated service that are committed to increasing our students' employability, helping you to develop the skills and experience you need to stand out in the job market. They will help you with placements, CV writing and interviews during your time with us, and will still be on-hand to help you for two years after you graduate.
UK entry requirements
2024/25 entry
- GCE A-level AAB-BBC.
- BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma DMM in any subject.
- BTEC Level 3 Diploma DM in any subject, with an A-Level at grade C.
- BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma M in any subject, with A-Levels grade BB.
- International Baccalaureate Diploma 29 points.
- Obtain a minimum of 112 UCAS tariff points in the Access to HE Diploma with 45 credits at Level 3.
- T levels : Merit overall
A minimum of five GCSEs are required, including GCSE Mathematics grade C or grade 4 and GCSE English Language grade C or grade 4 or GCSE English Literature grade B or grade 5.
Brunel University London is committed to raising the aspirations of our applicants and students. We will fully review your UCAS application and, where we’re able to offer a place, this will be personalised to you based on your application and education journey.
Please check our Admissions pages for more information on other factors we use to assess applicants as well as our full GCSE requirements and accepted equivalencies in place of GCSEs.
EU and International entry requirements
English language requirements
- IELTS: 6.5 (min 5.5 in all areas)
- Pearson: 59 (59 in all subscores)
- BrunELT: 63% (min 55% in all areas)
- TOEFL: 90 (min R18, L17, S20, W17)
You can find out more about the qualifications we accept on our English Language Requirements page.
Should you wish to take a pre-sessional English course to improve your English prior to starting your degree course, you must sit the test at an approved SELT provider for the same reason. We offer our own BrunELT English test and have pre-sessional English language courses for students who do not meet requirements or who wish to improve their English. You can find out more information on English courses and test options through our Brunel Language Centre.
Please check our Admissions pages for more information on other factors we use to assess applicants. This information is for guidance only and each application is assessed on a case-by-case basis. Entry requirements are subject to review, and may change.
Fees and funding
2024/25 entry
UK
£9,250 full-time
£6,935 part-time
£1,385 placement year
International
£19,430 full-time
£14,570 part-time
£1,385 placement year
Fees quoted are per year and may be subject to an annual increase. Home undergraduate student fees are regulated and are currently capped at £9,250 per year; any changes will be subject to changes in government policy. International fees will increase annually, by no more than 5% or RPI (Retail Price Index), whichever is the greater.
More information on any additional course-related costs.
See our fees and funding page for full details of undergraduate scholarships available to Brunel applicants.
Please refer to the scholarships pages to view discounts available to eligible EU undergraduate applicants.
Teaching and learning
Module teaching across the programme (lectures/seminars/tutorials) will take place in person on campus, and will be supported by the provision of asynchronous materials (e.g. lecture recordings etc.).
Other activities, including dissertation drop-ins, personal tutor meetings, assessment workshops, guest speaker events, and one-to-one tutorials may take place in person or online, as appropriate. We'll endeavour to take into account student preferences when arranging these activities, as well as other practical considerations, with an eye firmly on providing an excellent student experience at all times.
Students are strongly advised to purchase core texts from module reading lists, although copies are also available via Brunel Library.
You will have access to the Adobe Creative Cloud software through the university facilities such as Mac labs and edit suites, if you wish to have a license on your personal computer you will have to pay for it, however this is not a requirement. It is recommended that you purchase a large external hard drive.
Access to a laptop or desktop PC is required for joining online activities, completing coursework and digital exams, and a minimum specification can be found here.
We have computers available across campus for your use and laptop loan schemes to support you through your studies. You can find out more here.
Students will no longer be given individual licenses for the Adobe Creative Cloud as this was a covid contingency in response to the limited access to specialist on-campus facilities.
You’ll benefit from lectures, group tutorials, workshops and seminars, as well as one-to-one supervision in your final year project. Group seminars and personal tutorials allow you to learn in smaller groups and in one-to-one discussions.
To enhance your learning, you will have access to fantastic state-of-the-art facilities and equipment including; 17 fully-equipped edit suites, Final Cut Pro X, Avid and/or Adobe Premiere, and cameras including Canon C100, Sony PMW200, Canon XF100, Canon 5D.
Should you need guidance on the module, coursework and any other matters that may wish to discuss, module tutors are available for one-to-one tutorials.
Should you need any non-academic support during your time at Brunel, the Student Support and Welfare Team are here to help.
Assessment and feedback
Assessment will be through completing practical work including videos, scripting, storyboards, websites, coursework essays and projects, seminar presentations and video essays.
Although Level 1 does not count towards your final degree mark, you have to pass this level to continue with the course. Level 2 is worth a third and Level 3 is worth the rest, with the final year project worth a third of Level 3 marks.
All final-year students are required to complete a dissertation or project under the supervision of a member of the teaching team. This may take the form of a video essay with an accompanying analysis or a written piece on a subject of your choice.