Overview

Moving images have become one of the most powerful ways we tell stories and understand culture, and studying them combines critical thought with hands-on creative practice. The BA Film and Television at the University of Bristol is taught in a city recognised as a UNESCO City of Film, within a department whose teaching of the subject dates back to the late 1960s. Students are guided by active scholars and practitioners, blending historical, theoretical and critical study with practical filmmaking and production work. The course suits those who want to understand how film and television are made and interpreted, and who are keen to develop specialist industry skills alongside strong analytical and research abilities.

​

What You'll Learn

• Critical, historical and theoretical approaches to analysing film and television

• Practical filmmaking and collaborative project work, including short film production

• Major historical movements and contemporary practices in screen media

• Theories underpinning what shapes and informs what audiences watch

• Specialist industry skills such as cinematography, screenwriting or video games

• Scholarly investigation and critical thinking through essay writing and presentations

• Insight from working film and television professionals throughout the course

• Close examination of the film and television industries in the final year, with the option of a placement or industrial project

​

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to critically analyse film and television using historical, theoretical and contextual frameworks, and understand the movements and ideas that have shaped screen media. They will be able to apply practical production skills, from developing and executing creative projects to making short films collaboratively. Through essay writing, presentations and specialist option units, students will strengthen their scholarly investigation, critical thinking and communication skills, while gaining exposure to real industry practice through contact with professionals and, in the final year, a placement or industrial project. Graduates will leave with a combination of critical insight and practical expertise suited to further study or careers across the film, television and wider creative industries.