Why study this course?
The programme approaches the study of film through a varied intellectual approach, exploring cinema in a global context. You will discover filmmaking cultures outside the canon and examine film through new cultural, theoretical and historical perspectives.
This is the only international MLitt in Film and Media Studies in Scotland and one of only two in the UK. The IMACS programme gives students access to 17 (including St Andrews) of the top film and media programmes in Europe and Brazil and the top film studies programme in Francophone Canada. Students enrolled in the programme spend their first and last semesters at St Andrews, and the remaining two semesters at partner institutions.
The other institutions involved in this programme are:
- Birkbeck College London
- Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main
- Ruhr-Universität Bochum
- Universidad Pompeu Fabra Barcelona
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
- Università degli Studi di Udine
- Università degli Studi Roma 3
- Université Charles-de-Gaulle Lille
- Université de Liège
- Université de Montréal
- Université de Paris Ouest Nanterre La Défense
- Universidade Federal de Juiz de For a
- Université Sorbonne Nouvelle Paris
- Universiteit van Amsterdam
Teaching
Develop and apply theoretical knowledge and research skills through close analysis, research and critical examination of films and texts.
Study and research
Individual study and research is encouraged through small group discussion seminars, project work and one-to-one discussions.
Dissertation
A 15,000-word project with guidance throughout the process.
Assessment
A mix of coursework and exams.
Modules
The MLitt degree involves completing a number of taught modules within St Andrews and in two other institutions.
All modules are taught by members of staff in the Department.
Students choose two optional modules to complete their studies at St Andrews. Sample optional modules are included.
Optional modules are subject to change each year and require a minimum number of participants to be offered; some may only allow limited numbers of students.
For more details, including weekly contact hours, teaching methods and assessment, please see the module catalogue. The modules are examples from previous academic years and may be subject to change before you start your course.
What it will lead to
Careers
A Film Studies degree opens doors to many careers including academia, creative industries, development, distribution, film festival and cinema programming, arts administration, media management, film and TV research, journalism, publishing, advertising, cultural entrepreneurship, non-governmental organisations, marketing, public relations and education.
Further study
Many of our graduates continue their education by enrolling in PhD programmes at St Andrews or elsewhere.
Why St Andrews?
- IMACS offers a unique opportunity to obtain comprehensive international training in film and media studies, spending two semesters at partner institutions across Europe, Brazil and Canada with strengths targeted to students' interests.
- Film Studies receives regular visits from high-profile film scholars, critics and film industry personalities, ranging from Joe Russo to Richard Dyer, Laura Mulvey to Gina Marchetti.
- Students can gain professional experience working with the SANDS International Film Festival, including programming, curation, and publicity.
- Research-led teaching allows students to work closely with the current research projects and interests of staff members, exploring the latest developments and research within the discipline.
Events
Film Studies students are closely involved in the variety of events taking place at St Andrews, including seminar series, workshops and conferences. Specialist training sessions are organised periodically.
Students can become an active part in film-related activities, whether contributing to Frames Cinema Journal, attending and participating in research events and conferences, or participating in the annual Sands: International Film Festival.
“IMACS is a truly international course, as it offers unique opportunities for travel and collaboration with various countries and institutions. It has provided me with an enriching global academic and personal experience. ”
- London, England
Ask a student
If you are interested in learning what it's like to be a student at St Andrews you can speak to one of our student ambassadors. They'll let you know about their top tips, best study spots, favourite traditions and more.
Entry requirements
- A 2.1 Honours undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline. If you studied your first degree outside the UK, see the international entry requirements.
- English language proficiency.
- Proficiency in at least one relevant language beyond English (Class C1 on European Framework).
The qualifications listed are indicative minimum requirements for entry. Some academic Schools will ask applicants to achieve significantly higher marks than the minimum. Obtaining the listed entry requirements will not guarantee you a place, as the University considers all aspects of every application including, where applicable, the writing sample, personal statement, and supporting documents.
Application requirements
- CV outlining your personal details with a history of your education and employment to date
- covering letter or personal statement
- sample of your own, single-authored academic written work in English (2000 words)
- two original signed academic references
- academic transcripts and degree certificates
For more guidance, see supporting documents and references for postgraduate taught programmes.
English language proficiency
If English is not your first language, you may need to provide an English language test score to evidence your English language ability. See approved English language tests and scores for this course.
Fees and funding
- UK: £22,060
- Rest of the world: £46,145
Before we can begin processing your application, a payment of an application fee of £50 is required. In some instances, you may be eligible for an application fee waiver. Details of this, along with information on our tuition fees, can be found on the postgraduate fees and funding page.
Scholarships and funding
We are committed to supporting you through your studies, regardless of your financial circumstances. You may be eligible for scholarships, discounts or other support:
Contact us
Start your journey
Legal notices
Admission to the University of St Andrews is governed by our Admissions policy
Information about all programmes from previous years of entry can be found in the course archive.
Curriculum development
As a research intensive institution, the University ensures that its teaching references the research interests of its staff, which may change from time to time. As a result, programmes are regularly reviewed with the aim of enhancing students' learning experience. Our approach to course revision is described online.
Tuition fees
The University will clarify compulsory fees and charges it requires any student to pay at the time of offer. The offer will also clarify conditions for any variation of fees. The University’s approach to fee setting is described online.
Page last updated: 17 March 2025
