Deciding what kind of subject and course you would like to study at university can be challenging if you don’t know whether a certain degree is the right one for you. To help you with your research, I have compiled a few insights into what studying the BA Film Studies at King’s has been like for me and what you can expect from the course!
In the first year …
the majority of the modules you have are mandatory (meaning you’re required to take them in order to complete your degree), but as you progress into your second and third year you will have more options to choose from a range of modules depending on your interests. In the last years, these included modules dedicated to Asian Popular Cinema, Global Cult Cinema or Sound in Cinema to name just a few!
Your first year gives you an introduction to the field of Film Studies which will enable you to familiarize yourself with the tools and methods of academic research (e.g. in the Research and Scholarship module), undertake close analysis of films (e.g. in Introduction to Film Studies: Forms) and gain foundational knowledge in film history and theory (e.g. in Critical Debates; Introduction to Film Studies: Contexts and several film history modules). Each module usually consists of lectures, seminars and screenings – yes, as part of the degree you get to watch an incredibly diverse range of films from all over the world which is guaranteed to broaden your perspective!
But you might be wondering … what kind of careers can you pursue with a BA Film Studies degree?
The course equips you with in-depth knowledge of film history and theory, valuable research as well as critical thinking and writing skills which prepares you for a career in the arts and culture sector. For example, graduates of the BA Film
Graduates have gone on to work in varied professional fields such as film distribution, broadcast media, film festivals and media journalism. The degree also establishes a foundation for further study in related disciplines such as cultural studies or media studies.
Throughout your time at King’s, you will be supported by the King’s Careers and Employability service which offers application advice and hosts special events dedicated to exploring careers in the media industry. The Film Studies department also offers guidance for internships and organizes career workshops.
Beyond classes …
King’s has a variety of societies dedicated to creative media that you can get involved in!
- The KCL Film Society hosts regular film screenings, social events, filmmaking workshop along with many more opportunities to get to know like–minded people and to further develop your practical filmmaking skills.
- Joining the brand new Cineaste Society allows you to connect with fellow cinephiles, explore films outside o
f the mainstream and provides you with a space to further delve into the concepts and topics that interest you. - There are also numerous student media projects (such as KCL Radio, KCL Photography Society, KingsTV) and student magazines which publish film reviews (Strand Magazine, Roar News).
You should also keep an eye out throughout the semester for film-related events happening in and around King’s (such as the BFI London Film Festival or King’s own KCLSU Film Fest).
There are so many things to do as a film student at King’s, and I hope this gives you a helpful overview of what the course consists of as well as the kinds of activities that you can pursue outside of classes!
More Information:
To explore the King’s Film Studies course page, click here
To see what other courses King’s has to offer, click here
To read blog posts about Arts & Humanities career options at King’s, click here
KCL Film Society on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9AX7uoyZ5sY&feature=emb_title
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