The UK is home to some of the world’s best film schools UK, offering a rich mix of theoretical and practical programs in this creative field. But what are the best UK universities for film, and how can you find the right one for your goals?
If you’re interested in pursuing a degree in media and film studies, this guide will help you understand the landscape of film studies in the UK, highlighting the best universities for film studies UK based on rankings, entry requirements, and available scholarships. Whether you’re aiming for a program with strong industry links or world-class academic resources, we’ll also explore the top film universities UK and the best film degrees UK to set you on the right path.
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Film Studies in the UK
Studying film studies in the UK involves the critical analysis of films, both contemporary and historical, across different cultures. It’s not just about watching movies; it’s about understanding how films are made, the history of cinema, and the cultural, political, and social implications behind them. Students learn about everything from screenwriting and directing to cinematography, editing, and even marketing and distribution. The UK, with its rich cinematic history and globally respected education system, provides a perfect setting for aspiring filmmakers and scholars alike.
Where to Study Film in the UK?
The UK boasts a diverse range of institutions offering film studies, from specialized film schools to major research universities. Each offers a unique blend of academic rigor and practical experience. Some universities focus on theoretical aspects, while others provide hands-on training in filmmaking.
Best Universities to Study Film in the UK
Here are the top 10 universities to study film in the UK with the best programs they offer, based on subject-specific rankings, student satisfaction, and the quality of their programs.
University of Warwick
Warwick offers both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in Film Studies. The program blends academic theory with practice-based learning.
- QS Ranking: Top 100 for Arts and Humanities
- Fees: £23,390 (international students)
- Scholarships: Various merit-based scholarships
University of St Andrews
Known for its interdisciplinary approach, the University of St Andrews offers a BA in Film Studies, focusing on critical and theoretical frameworks.
- Ranking: 2nd in Guardian University Guide for Media Studies (2024)
- Fees: £24,240 (international)
- Scholarships: St Andrews International Excellence Scholarship
University of Westminster
Westminster offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in Film, focusing on theory and practical filmmaking.
- QS World Ranking: Top 700
- Fees: £16,000 (international)
- Scholarships: Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship
National Film and Television School (NFTS)
Recognized as one of the best film schools globally, NFTS offers highly specialized MA programs in film studies, covering Directing, Screenwriting, Producing, and more.
- QS Ranking: Globally renowned for practical training
- Fees: £32,000 (postgraduate)
- Scholarships: NFTS Scholarships for diversity and inclusion
University of the Arts London (UAL)
UAL’s film programs are offered through its constituent colleges like London College of Communication, with a focus on experimental and innovative approaches to filmmaking.
- QS Ranking: 2nd for Art & Design (2024)
- Fees: £24,220 (international)
- Scholarships: UAL International Postgraduate Scholarships
Bournemouth University
Bournemouth Film School, part of Bournemouth University, offers courses in film production and screenwriting.
- QS Ranking: #801
- Fees: £16,750
- Scholarships: AUB GREAT Scholarship
University of Glasgow
Glasgow offers an MA in Film & Television Studies, focusing on both film theory and media production.
- Ranking: Top 50 globally for media studies
- Fees: £20,000 (international)
- Scholarships: Various international scholarships are available
University of East Anglia (UEA)
UEA’s Film and Television Studies program provides students with both a theoretical background and practical experience in filmmaking.
- QS Ranking: Top 200 for Arts & Humanities
- Fees: £17,000 (international)
- Scholarships: UEA International Excellence Scholarship
Royal Holloway, University of London
Royal Holloway’s BA in Film, Television, and Digital Production combines theory with practical filmmaking projects.
- QS Ranking: Top 100 globally for Communication and Media Studies
- Fees: £19,300
- Scholarships: Royal Holloway Excellence Awards
King’s College London
King’s offers BA and MA programs in Film Studies, with a strong focus on the cultural, historical, and theoretical study of film.
- QS Ranking: Top 30 for Arts and Humanities
- Fees: £25,000 (international)
- Scholarships: King’s International Scholarships
What Do You Need to Study Film at University?
To study film at a university in the UK, you’ll typically need a mix of creative and academic strengths. Most programs look for applicants with:
- A high school diploma or equivalent (A-levels for UK students)
- A passion for film often demonstrated through portfolios, personal projects, or work experience in film, theatre, or related fields
- A good score in English proficiency exams like IELTS or TOEFL if you’re an international student
Specific universities may ask for related subjects such as English, Media Studies, or Art, and having prior experience with practical filmmaking can be a strong advantage.
Film Studies Degree Entry Requirements
Entry requirements vary by university and the level of study. For undergraduate degrees, most universities ask for:
- A-levels
- International Baccalaureate
- Portfolio
- English Language Proficiency
Postgraduate courses may require a bachelor’s degree in film or a related discipline and a portfolio.
