BA (Hons) History and Film Studies
Key Details
- Attendance
- Full Time
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Arts
- UCAS Course Code
- WV61
- Entry Requirements
- ABB including History or a related subject
- Course Length
- 3 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2023
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Why you should choose us
Course Overview
Film and history have been intertwined since the invention of the moving image at the end of the 19th century. Whether film has been used to depict history or to sway its course, the overlapping of these two disciplines has long been a source of scholarly and cultural fascination.
In this degree, you’ll explore the key aspects of this relationship over a range of modules. You’ll explore the representation of history in genres such as documentary and propaganda films. At the same time, you’ll engage with the history of cinema.
You’ll also have access to first-hand archival experience at the East Anglian Film Archive, with which UEA has a special relationship. You’ll be able to use the materials to reconstruct aspects of local history or use them to make a film of your own.
Our BA History and Film Studies is ranked 10th for History and in the top 20 for Media and Film Studies by 'The Guardian University Guide 2023'.
The BA History and Film Studies degree is an innovative degree programme, combining these two interlinking subjects, and offering opportunities for critically engaging with how historical events have been recorded and reconstructed through visual media.
Our Film, Television and Media Studies department is recognised as a leading centre for the study of British and Hollywood cinemas, popular film and television genres, and feminist approaches to media. In UEA’s School of History, you’ll be taught by cutting-edge specialists and discover their latest world-leading research. UEA is acknowledged to be at the forefront of History research in the UK, and in the Times Higher Education Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 Analysis, UEA was ranked 3rd overall in the UK for research quality in History.
You’ll explore world history alongside the history of film. You'll be able to choose from a wide range of options across the two subjects. Specially designed modules will bring film and history into dynamic dialogue by examining areas such as propaganda and documentary. You'll also have access to resources like our on-campus television studio, media facilities and the unique holdings at the East Anglian Film Archive, where there are opportunities for practical experience in film-making and archival research. This is a unique resource which you can make use of during your time here. We have close links with the British Film Institute in London, and with film festivals and local production companies.
Placement Year and Study Abroad
Study and Modules
Structure
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Our world-leading academics employ a range of teaching styles. Alongside the more traditional lectures and seminars, you’ll learn through film and television screenings. You’ll also have access to UEA’s Television Studio and Media Suite. Containing editing suites, cameras and sound equipment, and sound studios. You’ll have the opportunity to be trained to use all of these.
In addition to timetabled lecture and seminar slots, academic holds dedicated office hours where students can come and seek advice and guidance on a one-to-one basis. You’ll also be assigned an adviser who can support you through your studies by providing academic and career guidance.
You’ll also acquire vital skills needed for independent learning and will develop the analytical skills which you will need throughout your course. You will have access to dedicated sessions designed to help you make the most of UEA’s state-of-the-art library facilities. Through these sessions and your academic modules, you’ll gain the vital research skills of uncovering resources and critically assessing sources. You will be given opportunities to practice essay writing and presentations skills both in person and online. You will also get the opportunity to work in groups and develop the skills necessary for effective collaboration.
Assessment
Structure
You’ll also have opportunities to undertake a placement during the second year. Previous students have undertaken placements with organisations including local radio stations, television production companies and the East Anglian Film Archive.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 40)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 40)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Assessment
Structure
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 60)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 30)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Assessment
All our assessments are designed to strengthen your critical thinking, prepare you for the next level of study and give you skills that are attractive to future employers.
Entry Requirements
- A Levels
- ABB including History, or one of the essay-based subjects listed below: Ancient History, Archaeology, Anthropology, Classical Civilisation, Classical Studies, English Literature, History of Art, Politics, Government and Politics, Psychology, Sociology, Film Studies, Media Studies, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Geography.
- T Levels
- Not accepted
- BTEC
- DDM, excluding Public Services, Uniformed Services or Business Administration. A-level grade grade B also required in one of the essay-based subjects listed below: Ancient History, Archaeology, Anthropology, Classical Civilisation, Classical Studies, English Literature, History of Art, Politics, Government and Politics, Psychology, Sociology, Film Studies, Media Studies, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Geography.
- Scottish Highers
- AAABB alongside Advanced Higher grade C in History or a related subject
- Scottish Advanced Highers
- BCC including History or a related subject
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- 3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3 including History or a related subject
- Access to HE Diploma
- Access to Humanities and Social Sciences pathway accepted. Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3
- International Baccalaureate
- 32 points including History or a related subject
- GCSE
You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
- IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components) for year 1 entry
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
- Interviews
Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Track. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time.
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Intakes
This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year.
Additional Information or Requirements
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.
If you do not meet the academic and/or English requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO University of East Anglia offers guaranteed progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree:
Important note
Once enrolled onto your course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include your eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
Careers
A degree at UEA will prepare you for a wide variety of careers. We've been ranked 1st for Job Prospects by StudentCrowd in 2022.
Examples of careers you could enter include:
- Film production
- Museums
- Cultural heritage and archives
- Arts festivals
- Social media
- Publishing (books, magazines, newspapers)