Practical film opportunities
In Film Studies, our modules have been developed to the highest academic standards and offer a thorough grounding in film theory and critical approaches while also exploring film history from the 1890s to the present day, and how it is important to build an understanding of national and cultural context when studying the medium as both popular entertainment and art form. Our emphasis is thus on the academic study of film theory, history and aesthetics on all our courses.
However, if you choose to study Film you also have the option, if you wish, to undertake some professional practice modules. These offer you the opportunity to develop your professional, journalistic and/or screenwriting skills in the second and final years. All students, whichever film course they choose, can also opt to join Wessex Film, a student-run society in which you can make your own films outside the main activities of your degree. If you are interested in journalism, you might also consider writing for the student newspaper, Wessex Scene, or contributing to SUSU TV, the students' TV station, to develop your writing skills and build your CV.
Your employability
Employers tell us that they are looking for driven, articulate individuals with a passion for learning; Humanities students fit that bill. During your time with us we will support your personal and professional development within, alongside and outside of your degree programme. Working in partnership with the university's Career Destinations service, we will provide you with a framework which will enable you to take ownership of your future from the start of your studies, to make the most of all opportunities available to you, building your confidence to fulfil your ambition and realise your goals.
How it works
Humanities employability modules
Three modules, one for each year of your programme, comprising of a series of lectures and seminars given by experts, employers and alumni, which take you through career planning step by step. Starting with an introduction to the opportunities on offer, building to skills self-assessment to help you to discover hidden talents, through to CV, application and personal statement writing, entrepreneurial and start-up options, interview techniques, psychometric testing and digital self-marketing. Employers will tell you what they can offer, from placements, internships and springboard programmes to ambassadorships and graduate recruitment. You will learn how and when to apply for roles and be given top tips for making an impact. Our alumni will share their experiences of the world of work, helping you to make connections between your studies and potential career options. Additional optional seminars and flexible online learning will enable you to tailor your development to suit you and your ambitions.
The Humanities Employability Module can be found here
Humanities Peer Mentoring
Peer Mentoring is a mutually beneficial way of learning and developing transferable skills that will help you not only during your time at the University of Southampton, but into employability. The scheme takes advantage of the expertise of current Humanities students, who use their first-hand experience and student-led training to be appointed as Mentors. New students (Mentees) are automatically enrolled into the scheme so that every new undergraduate Humanities student can take full advantage of the Mentors to provide extra help and information during their transition into University life here at Southampton. For more information, please visit our Peer Mentoring webpage.
Humanities External Advisory Board
Our modules are supported by input from our External Advisory Board. Members are drawn from a pool of employers and research partners who advise us on a fast-changing job market. Membership of the Board changes frequently so we are always getting fresh ideas, suggestions and advice.
Humanities VIP Alumni
We work closely with our graduates to provide a university experience which extends beyond graduation. Our VIP Alumni are graduates who have opted to give back to Humanities, offering their time to share their experiences and insights with current students. You will meet our VIP Alumni as you study our employability modules or network at events, activities and recruitment fairs.
Careers in film
The knowledge, skills, and critical ability we develop in Film Studies provides our students with a solid, versatile and well-respected degree in the Humanities which equips them for many types of employment. As well as entering professions such as teaching, the civil service and the police, or continuing into postgraduate study, many of our students seek employment in media and arts based careers, including film editing, journalism and production roles.
Visit the Film alumni page to learn more about what our students are doing now.
The film course at Southampton provides the essential tools for anyone who wants to work in film.