Film studies
Understand the media that shapes our world.
As a film studies student, you will explore a range of films and other screen media - mainstream and peripheral - from around the world, examining the contexts in which they are made, seen and used.
- global film cultures of production, distribution and exhibition
- film and media historiography
- audio-visual environments
- documentary and non-fiction cinema.
Undergraduate
Postgraduate taught
Postgraduate research
The Department of Film Studies offers PhD research programmes in film studies. The Department maintains a vibrant and comprehensive research programme from early cinema and its contexts to contemporary film and media.
To apply, you should first identify and contact a potential supervisor you would like to work with in your intended research area. Find out how to contact a research supervisor.
“The depth in which I am encouraged to think about and discuss film has improved my overall skills of critical thinking. The lecturers present us with texts and ideas outside of our usual frame of reference and encourage us to formulate our own point of view, even in contentious areas of debate. The work is hard but if you are studying something you are passionate about, it is more than worth it.”
- Inverness, Scotland
Awards
75% of research activity rated 3* or 4*
Most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021)
Department of Film Studies
The Department of Film Studies covers the breadth of film and media studies. It is dedicated to the study of cinema from a global perspective, moving beyond the canon of Hollywood and European film to engage with a diverse range of practices, cultures, movements, genres, and forms.
Studying in St Andrews
The University offers a variety of flexible entry options in order to allow all students, regardless of background or personal circumstances, to apply.
Scholarships and funding options are available at every level of study.
St Andrews has variety of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets.
Visit St Andrews
If you’re interested in studying at St Andrews, join us at a visiting day or talk and tour to explore the town, find out about our courses and meet current students. You can also join us for one of our upcoming online events.
