MA / Postgraduate Diploma in Arts (Film
Studies [Film, Culture, and Society])

Huston school of film & digital media

Programme description

The programme emphasises the relationship between film and society while viewing the medium as a unique point of contact between culture, political and social life. Core courses in film history and theory examine some of these relationships in general terms, while option courses allow students to focus on special areas. The particular objectives of the programme are:

• to encourage critical reflection on the relationships between film and its political, social and cultural contexts; 
• to augment students’ knowledge of film history, theory, and criticism;
• to develop students’ skills in the techniques of critical and historical analysis;
• to develop students’ skills in oral and written communication;
• to train students in advanced humanities research techniques through the completion of a minor thesis.

The course is a full-time degree taken over a twelve-month period (September 2009 to August 2010). The year is divided into two teaching semesters (September to December and
January to April). The summer period will be used to complete a minor dissertation.

The programme comprises four core seminar courses during the academic year and and chose 4 options plus a research methods seminar) over two 12-week semesters.  .

ECTS weighting

MA—90 ECTS
PDip—60 ECTS

Programme fee, academic year 2009–10

E.U. students: €6,540
Non-E.U. students: €12,500*

*Subject to ratification

Please note: fees are correct at the time of online publication, but are subject to change (E&EO); non-E.U. fees must be paid in full prior to registration.

Application

Applications to this programme are made online via The Postgraduate Applications Centre (PAC). Relevant PAC application code above right.

Minimum entry requirements

The number of places is limited. You should have an honours primary degree (at least Second Class Honours in one subject, or a U.S. GPA 3.2). We also welcome applicants with substantial and relevant professional experience to apply. Such cases may be considered for exemption from the honours degree requirement, subject to appropriate arrangements such as a qualifying
examination. These students will be required to register initially for a Postgraduate Diploma.

With your online your application you should include: a writing sample consisting of either a graded academic essay or a 1,000-word review of a recent film.

Selection criteria

Applicants should be driven by a passion for film and its analysis. Potential participants may also be invited to attend for interview.

Examination arrangements

The course is assessed by a combination of exam and essay work.

Career opportunities

The MA programme is designed to enhance students’ prospects for undertaking further research at PhD level, or for participation in a wide range of film-related careers, including teaching, programming and exhibition, curatorial work, and arts journalism.

Visitors and guest seminars

The Huston School hosts an extensive range of special events and guest seminars during the year, which students are expected to attend. Visitors since 2003 have included: John Boorman, Roddy Doyle, Colin MacCabe, Laura Mulvey, Howard Rodman, Mike Figgis, Peter Sheridan, Liz Gill, Paddy Breathnach, Alan Gilsenan, Maryann DeLeo and others. Over the last three years the Huston School has also hosted a series of international conferences: Early Cinema, Women in the Picture, most recently New Perspectives on the Quiet Man and New Scottish Cinema in November 2005.

Programme content (subject to change)

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