16-18 Courses, 16-18: A Levels

Film Studies (A Level)

Course Overview

Entry requirements

Enrolment on an A Level programme requires a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades 9 - 4, including English and maths.

Specific criteria for this subject:

  • A minimum average point score of 4.25
  • Maths: Grade 4
  • English: Grade 5
  • Grade 6 in one other written subject is desirable

Course information

Film Studies A Level will allow you to analyse how films are constructed and will develop your appreciation of the film industry. Students will have the opportunity to investigate how film inspires a range of responses from the emotional to the reflective. They will also carry out case studies on stars, directors and genres and will produce a practical piece of film-based work. The course, which is a full A Level studied over two years, will give students a sense of the development of film from its early years to its still emerging digital future.

The aim of the course is to generate enthusiasm and excitement for what is a powerful and culturally significant medium. If you love films and want to develop your understanding and appreciation of them, this is the course for you. You will be introduced to a wide variety of films such as mainstream and independent American and British films from the past and the present, as well as more recent global films, including some that are non-English speaking.

You can expect to:

  • Give your opinion on a wide range of films
  • Work with others to create a film sequence or a short film
  • Analyse performance, cinematography, editing and sound of individual films
  • Examine current successful films and explain the reasons for their success
  • Study the process of film-making, from finance to production and marketing
  • Look at how audiences appreciate films and stars in case studies of movie internet sites, forums and fan behaviour

Film Studies can be studied alongside another 2 or 3 A Levels or BTEC equivalents. Most courses would go well, but particularly those from the Creative Arts and Media Faculty.

  • How you are assessed

    60% Exam

    40% Coursework

Select your campus option to apply

What Can This Course Lead To

Progress to university, further study or employment.

Students can progress direct into employment within the film and media industries or the course provides a suitable foundation for a variety of degree courses. A degree in film studies provides you with theoretical and technical skills that are transferable to many careers in the creative industries. After further training, students can go on to jobs such as broadcast engineer, presenter, location manager, programme/film researcher, television camera operator or production co-ordinator.

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Financial Support

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