Research in Film and Television Studies (MA) (2022 Entry)
Our MA for Research in Film and Television Studies is not the same as Media Studies, Communications Studies or Journalism Studies. We offer modules which make more use of the kinds of methodologies employed in the study of English Literature, History and Art History rather than those practised in the sociological analysis of communications industries. This is a theoretical course and we do not offer any training in the skills of practical filmmaking.
This course is designed for students with an academic background in film and/or television studies. Applicants are likely to have achieved a first class result at undergraduate level, have firm PhD plans and feel that they need to develop their knowledge of fields that are not covered by our taught modules, in order to prepare for their proposed PhD project.
The Department of Film and Television Studies at Warwick is regarded as one of the finest in the world and offers an unparalleled training in audio-visual literacy, an increasingly valuable attribute in today’s world.
Through this MA programme, you will be able to draw upon the renowned expertise of our staff to develop a programme tailored to prepare for your doctoral research.
First Class Honours undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in Film and/or Television Studies.
All applicants are asked to provide us with a sample piece of written work of around 1,500-3,000 words (preferably, though not necessarily, on a film/TV-related subject) and a short (c. 200-300 words) description of the kind of research topic(s) they would be interested in studying for the mandatory 20,000 word dissertation.
For a speedier decision on your application, we advise you to provide us with these supplementary documents when you apply and the documents can be uploaded to your application.
English Language requirements header
- Band B
- IELTS overall score of 7.0, minimum component scores of two at 6.0/6.5 and the rest at 7.0 or above.
International requirements header
Additional requirements header
There are no additional entry requirements for this course.
Independent Study
The Independent Study Module (ISM) is a programme of independent study designed by you in consultation with a relevant tutor. It is conceived of a being like a taught module, with a plan of reading, viewing and writing around your chosen topic being designed in advance and progress monitored on a regular basis. You will choose the topic of your investigation and structure your time and focus yourself. The majority of your time will be spent in self-study. At the end of the module you will produce a 5,000 word piece of work that is the product of your independent research.
Dissertation
The core dissertation module provides training and supervision for independent study, leading to a 20,000 word written project.
Optional module header
- Cities and Landscapes in Film
- Ecocinema
- Film Cultures
- Film and Social Change
- Film Criticism, Film Style
- History and Memory in Italian Cinema
- Horror and the Gothic
- Irony in Film
- Issues in Documentary
- Postcolonial Film
- Sound Cultures
- Swedish Cinema
- Global Visions
- Television History and Aesthetics
Three taught modules, plus one independent study module designed in consultation with a supervisor and a 20,000 word dissertation.
The core elements of the Film and Television Studies curricula are supported by a programme of research seminars (departmental staff, PhD students and visiting speakers) and the wide range of screenings for other courses and more generally on campus.
The programme includes dedicated sessions in Graduate Skills that will equip you with the necessary academic skills to excel in Master’s assignments and PhD applications.
Class size header
We have a superb staff-student ratio: for example, our taught MA is normally restricted to twenty students whilst there are thirteen full-time members of staff, and all MA students are allocated a personal tutor.
Contact hours header
There is an average of 16 contact hours per week.
Assessment header
Combination of assessed essays and a 20,000 word dissertation.
Reading lists
Most departments have reading lists available through Warwick Library. If you would like to view reading lists for the current cohort of students you can visit our Warwick Library web page.
Your timetable
Your personalised timetable will be complete when you are registered for all modules, compulsory and optional, and you have been allocated to your lectures, seminars and other small group classes. Your compulsory modules will be registered for you and you will be able to choose your optional modules when you join us.