UNIVERSITY OF BRADFORDSchool of Engineering and InformaticsSchool of Media, Design and Technology Programme: BA (Hons) Film Studies

Awarding and teaching institution: / University of Bradford
Final and interim awards: / BA Honours[Framework for Higher Education Qualifications level 6]
Diploma of Higher Education [Framework for Higher Education Qualifications level 5]
Certificate of Higher Education [Framework for Higher Education Qualifications level 4]
Programme title: / Film Studies
Duration: / 3 years full time; 4 years full-time including a year of study abroad and/or a work placement; 4 years part time intensive; 4-6 years part time
UCAS code: / P303BA/FS
Subject benchmark statement: / Communication, Media,Film& Cultural Studies
Date produced: / April 2008
Last updated : / October 2013

Introduction

The BA (Hons) Film Studies programme will engage you on an intellectual level in the study of film and film-related materials. While this study of the cinematic arts will be largely theoretical, the programme will also offer some complementary practical skills in (digital) film production. This practical dimension, at levels 4 (EM0122D) and optionally at level 6 (EM0349D or EM0353D), offers you the opportunity to see how the material form of films is produced and can help you learn from practical application. This is particularly useful in aspects of film such as framing/composition, sound and the grammar of editing. This combination of theory and practice will enable you to develop a deeper understanding of the social, political and cultural impact of cinema, and the programme will produce graduates who have an aesthetic sensibility as well as contextual knowledge of the institutions of film. For those students who develop a deeper passion for the practical side of film making theywill be encouraged to take advantage of the facilities and equipment of the School and join the ‘Film-Making Society’ run by students, which supports student–made productions.

School of Media, Design and Technology has strong links with the BBC and Creative Skillset, the sector skills council for the creative industries. Bradford is also the world’s first UNESCO City of Film with whom we are also partners. Our partnerships and collaborations provide you with the opportunity to experience interdisciplinary, shared learning within a vibrant, creative environment.

The School has a strong tradition of contextual studies of media, and staff members are involved in research that is impacting upon the development of film studies. The school’s experience in digital media production will also be a bonus when you engage with the changing practices of film production and distribution. Guest lecturers and speakers invited to the university and to associated events will offer you the opportunity to directly engage with producers, writers and academics.

The National Media Museum (NMeM) provides both a unique learning environment and a large body of resources relating to film and cinematic arts, as well as a growing collection of rare prints and over 9000 books on film and special holdings. Students on the BA (Hons) Film Studies will also enjoy access to unique screenings and to all of the festivals held at the NMeM. These include the Bradford International Film Festival; the Bradford Animation Festival and the Fantastic Films Weekend.

Programme Aims

The Schoolaims to provide honours degree programmes which enable students to develop an integrated range of knowledge, understanding and skills in the field of film studies through critical engagement with media theory and production practices.

In addition, the BA Film Studies programme is intended toactively encourage students to develop a portfolio of appropriate transferable skills and attributes by:

  • Delivering a programme of study with opportunities for shared learning, with some flexibility to allow for specialisation (including some practical film-making optionality and specialization in particular areas of film studies that could lead on to further study at PG level).
  • Providing a supportive, structured environment in which students are encouraged to develop independent learning skills.
  • Developing subject specific knowledge and understanding, developing discipline skills and developing personal transferable skills which will enable graduates to pursue programmes of further study, or to move directly into responsible employment.

Programme Learning Outcomes

When you have completed the programme you will be able to:

LO1.Understanding of film as a local, national and international industry, alongside recognising its historical, cultural and critical importance.

LO2.In-depth knowledge of a range of specific generic conventions.

LO3.An overall understanding of the varied aesthetics of film practices including production processes.

LO4.Knowledge and understanding of industrial practices and an awareness of audiences and reception of film.

LO5.Competence of how to ‘read’ films and how to write about film effectively.

LO6.An ability to contextualise the institutions of cinema and its practices from historical, social, political and cultural perspectives.

LO7.Use academic skills to express their critical understanding through engagement with practical production work.

LO8.Critical interpretation of information,

LO9.Research methodologies.

LO10.Effective project management including teamwork, groupwork and presentation skills.

On completion of this award at Certificate of Higher Education level, you will be able to:

  1. Explain relevant theories, models and principles as they apply to film as an industry.
  2. Present and evaluate ideas and concepts relevant to the main film movements.
  3. Collect information, ideas and concepts from recommended sources, organizing and referencing them appropriately.
  4. Work effectively as individuals and in groups being able to communicate ideas and arguments effectively and accurately both orally and in writing and through production work.
  5. Demonstrate development as an independent learner, showing skills of organisation, group working and inquiry.

On completion of this award at Diploma of Higher Education level, you will be able to:

  1. Identify and explain the main historical traditions in film.
  2. Identify, examine and evaluate approaches to film making nationally and internationally.
  3. Compare and contrast alternative approaches to film making.
  4. Integrate and analyse relevant knowledge and reflect on it.
  5. Deploy a range of academic and research skills.
  6. Demonstrate stronger project management skills, being able to select and deploy strategies to secure outcomes aiding your development as an autonomous learner.
  7. Communicate your ideas and arguments fluently in writing and orally.

Although the University does not recruit directly to Ordinary degrees this route is available.A Bachelor’s degree (Ordinary) is awarded to students who have demonstrated:

  • a systematic understanding key aspects of their field of study, including acquisition of coherent and detailed knowledge informed by aspects of Film Studies.
  • an ability to deploy accurately established techniques of analysis and enquiry within Film Studies.
  • conceptual understanding that enables the student:
  • to devise and sustain arguments, and/or to solve problems, using ideas and techniques.
  • to describe and comment upon particular aspects of current research, or equivalent scholarship, or practice in Film Studies.
  • an appreciation of the uncertainty, ambiguity and limits of knowledge.
  • the ability to manage their own learning, and to make use of primary sources.

Typically, holders of the qualification will be able to:

  • apply the methods and techniques that they have learned to review, consolidate, extend and apply their knowledge and understanding.
  • communicate information, ideas, problems and solutions to both specialist and non specialist audiences.

And holders will have:

  • the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring:
  • the exercise of initiative and personal responsibility
  • the learning ability needed to undertake appropriate further training of a professional or equivalent nature.

Curriculum

Stage 1 [Level 4]

Module Code / Module Title / Hons / Credits / Level / Study period
EM0152D /
Higher Learning in Media
/ C / 20 / 4 / 1
EM0138D / Key Concepts in Film Studies / C / 20 / 4 / 1
EM0153D / Film - Style and Language / C / 20 / 4 / 1
EM0122D / Conventions of Videography / C / 20 / 4 / 2
EM0154D / Film - Narrative and Genre / C / 20 / 4 / 2
EM0135D / Media Institutions / C / 20 / 4 / 2

Students who have achieved at least 120 credit points at Level 4 may exit the programme and are eligible for the award of Certificate of Higher Education.

Stage 2[Level 5]

Module Code / Module Title / Hons / Ord / Credits / Level / Study period
EM0239D / Media Audiences / C / C / 20 / 5 / 1
EM0252D / Factual Film and Television / C / O / 20 / 5 / 1
EM0278D / Hollywood and Society / C / O / 20 / 5 / 1
EM0273D / Media Archaeologies / C / C / 20 / 5 / 2
EM0251D / British Film and Television Drama / C / O / 20 / 5 / 2
EM0238D / International Media / O / O / 20 / 5 / 2
EM0279D / Representations of Race in Film and Television / O / O / 20 / 2 / 2

Students who have achieved at least 120 credit points at Level 5 may exit the programme and are eligible for the award of Diploma of Higher Education.

Stage 3 [Level 6]

Module Code / Module Title / Hons / Ord / Credits / Level / Study period
EM0347D / Dissertation - Preparation / C / C / 20 / 6 / 1
EM0349D / Individual Project: Film & Media / O / O / 20 / 6 / 1
EM0353D / Experimental Filmmaking / O / O / 20 / 6 / 1
EM0371D / Narrative in Culture / C / O / 20 / 6 / 1
EM4048D / Philosophies of Film and Media / O / O / 20 / 7 / 1
EM0348D / Dissertation - Write-up / C* / O** / 20 / 6 / 2
EM0364Q / Dissertation - 8000 Word Write-up / C* / O** / 40 / 6 / 2
EM0372D / World Cinema / O / O / 20 / 6 / 2
EM0365D / Alternative Film and Media / O / O / 20 / 6 / 2

*students must take ONE of these modules as core.

** students could take ONE of these modules but not BOTH as option.

The curriculum may change, subject to the University's programme approval, monitoring and review procedures.

Study abroad and work placement opportunities

You have the option to undertake an industrial placement, or of studying or working abroad for a year between stages 2 and 3; this option is strongly encouraged. The School has an industrial training co-ordinator who has contacts with a large number of outside organisations and who assists in helping you find a placement. The university’s International Office provides a wide range of opportunities and support for students to gain international experience. Both options provide the opportunity to gain valuable experience, and are viewed favourably by prospective employers.

Teaching and Assessment Strategies

You will experience a wide range of teaching and learning environments studying for the BA (Hons) Film Studies. Concepts, principles and theories are generally explored in formal lectures and practiced in associated tutorials, seminars and directed reading groups. Your professional and personal skills will be developed through presentations, discussion and small-scale project work which involves problem-solving and design exercises. Practical skills, where applicable, will be developed in workshop and studio sessions.

You are required to commit 200 hours of time for each 20-credit module. The weighting of how this time is managed varies; some modules will involve many formal contact hours (time spent with the tutor), while others will require more independent study (self-managed under the guidance of the tutor). As you progress through the programme, the amount of independent study increases as the programme becomes more project-based.

During Stage 1, you will be introduced to basic principles and concepts in your field of study. In Stage 2, you will be required to take a more analytic approach. Finally, Stage 3 will give you the opportunity to synthesise and critically review your knowledge, understanding and skills previously acquired through a written dissertation and a synoptic module called ‘Narrative in Culture’ that will enable you to reflect on your learning and construct your own narrative of learning.

The methods of assessment on the BA (Hons) Film Studies include formal examinations, essays, film readings, seminar reports, personal narratives, individual and group presentations, and where appropriate, production projects. Each assessment has been carefully considered so as to allow you to demonstrate the learning outcomes required by the module.

Assessment Regulations

This Programme conforms to the standard University Regulations which are available at the following link:

Admission Requirements

The University welcomes applications from all potential students regardless of their previous academic experience; offers are made following detailed consideration of each individual application. Most important in the decision to offer a place is our assessment of a candidate’s potential to benefit from their studies and of their ability to succeed on this particular programme. Entrance requirements for each programme will vary but consideration of your application will be based on a combination of your formal academic qualifications and other relevant experience.

If you have prior certificated learning or professional experience which may be equivalent to parts of this programme, the University has procedures to evaluate this learning in order to provide you with exemptions from specified modules contained within the curriculum. Please talk to us if you do not fit the standard pattern of entry qualifications.

Entry requirements: Typical offer (UCAS tariff points): 280

  • To include 160 points from 2 GCE A levels or equivalent. No specific subject requirements, although those involving media and English will be an advantage. Or DMM in a relevant BTEC Diploma. International Baccalaureate (see UCAS tariff point requirements).
  • GCSE English and Maths minimum grade C.
  • Minimum IELTS at 6.0 or the equivalent.

Students will be invited to attend an interview as part of the selection process.

A typical offer to someone seeking entry through the UCAS scheme would be 280 points. However, applications are welcome from mature students (typically those over 21 years of age on entry) and candidates with non-standard qualifications or who, lacking academic qualifications, have significant relevant experience. On completion of a UCAS form you will be invited to the School for an Open Day when you will have the opportunity to meet staff, view the facilities and discuss “the Bradford experience” with current students.

Learning Resources

The JB Priestley Library on the city campus and our specialist libraries in the School of Health Studies and the School of Management provide a wide range of printed and electronic resources to support your studies. We offer quiet study space if you want to work on your own, and group study areas for the times when you need to discuss work with fellow students. Subject librarians for each School provide training sessions and individual guidance in finding the information you need for your assignment, and will help you organise your references properly.

Student PC clusters can be found in all our libraries and elsewhere on the campus. Many of these are open 24/7. You can also use the University's wireless network to access the internet from your own laptop. Most of our online journals are available on the internet (both on and off campus), and you can also access your University email account, personal information and programme-related materials this way.

Staff are on hand during the daytime to help you if you get stuck, and there is a 24/7 IT helpline available.

The School intranet includes the Technical Support website at which supports students by offering detailed information on all the technical and services offered by the School, including: Equipment Loans Service; IT suites; Video Editing.

All students on the BA (Hons) Film Studies are allocated a personal tutor who will provide both academic and pastoral support. There are also a number of named individuals within the Schoolwho have specialist responsibilities, and are able to deal with specific issues relating to factors such as disability, equal opportunities and gender. The Staff Student Liaison Committee gives the opportunity for students to give formal feedback to the Programme Tutor and/or Schoolabout curricular issues and the general running of the programme.

The School also uses the university’s Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) known as Blackboard to support students via their individual modules

In addition to all the above, students have access to the University of Bradford library and computing facilities, and further staff and resources available at the National Media Museum.

Student Support and Guidance

Programme Team

Support for you personally and in your programme of study, will be provided both by the University and the Programme Team. You will be allocated a personal tutor who is someone with whom you will be able to talk about any academic or personal concerns. The School will ensure that there is someone available with whom you feel comfortable to help and support you. You will be provided with a comprehensive series of handbooks that you can consult on a range of learning issues and your programme tutors will be available to consult on subject specific queries.

The Hub, Student Support Centre

The Hub, Student Support Centre provides a central reception where students can receive information, advice and guidance on a whole range of topics about their life at University. The Hub is located in the Richmond Building adjacent to the Atrium.

The teams located within The Hub:

  • Accommodation
  • Admissions
  • Education Liaison
  • Enquiries
  • Student Administration and Support
  • Bursaries and Financial Support
  • Finance and Credit Control Group
  • Payzone
  • Records and Tuition Fees
  • International Office
  • Customer Service Team


+44 1274 232233

Students’ Union

We value the feedback provided by students and collaborate with the Students’ Union, through a system of programme representatives and formal staff student liaison committees, so that any issues you wish to raise are addressed rapidly.

The Students’ Union and the University of Bradford work in partnership to provide confidential counselling and welfare services where you can get help with any aspect of your personal or academic life. Student Financial and Information Services (based in the Hub) will provide you with information about a diverse range of issues such as council tax, personal safety and tourist information. International Students can access a range of additional advice and support services through the Student’s Union.

Employability and Career Development

The University is committed to helping students develop and enhance their employability profile and capabilities through learning opportunities embedded within the curriculum.

Furthermore, the University is committed to supporting students to develop their commitment towards a career pathway(s) and to implementing a career plan. Professional career guidance and development support is available throughout your time as a student and as a graduate from Career Development Services. The support available from Career Development Services includes a wide range of information resources, one to one appointments, a weekly workshop programme, a mentoring programme, graduate recruitment and careers fairs, plus information and help to you find part time work, summer work placements, graduate internship programmes and graduate entry vacancies.In addition, some students as part of their programme of study may have the opportunity to complete a Career & Personal Development accredited module delivered by the Career Development Service.