University College Cork's BA in Film and Screen Media is a unique, major degree that offers students a thorough education on the history, theory, values, aesthetics and ideology of the moving image.

The philosophy of our BA is that theory, analysis and history must be informed by practice, and that practice must, in turn, be informed by a deep understanding of how cinema and ideas about the moving image have developed. Hence, this unique programme innovatively combines the study of film and of screen media (Internet, mobile social media, e-publishing) and practical filmmaking modules and workshops in digital filmmaking and in writing for the screen.

Led by internationally recognised experts, this BA will immerse students in the history and theory of film and screen media from around the world, from the birth of cinema to the age of the Internet. Students also make films under the guidance of experienced practitioners, and avail of professionalising opportunities provided by the programme's partnership with film festivals such as Schull's Fastnet Short Film Festival. With a thriving component of visiting speakers, guest practitioners and artists in residence, students will have the chance to meet and be taught by professionals of the film industry and by expert speakers from universities and archives from around the world.

Students may opt into the International Pathway of the BA, and spend third year studying film and screen media, as well as their second subject, at one of our partner universities abroad.

The BA equips students with the skills for careers in the media, the culture and creative industries, teaching, journalism, or for further study and research at postgraduate level.

BA Programme Structure and Modules

The BA in Film and Screen Media is a Major degree that lasts 3 years. Students take 60 credits each year, as follows:

1. First Year: BA Film and Screen Media (30 credits) + two other subjects (15 credits each)

2. Second Year: BA Film and Screen Media (40 credits) + one other subject (20 credits)

3. Third Year: BA Film and Screen Media (40 credits) + one other subject (20 credits)

This course is unique in its combination of film studies and screen media. In the course of your degree, you get the chance to work with a resident filmmaker and collaborate on short films and promos. You will have the opportunity of working on a treatment and a short script under the tutelage of an accredited expert.

Leading figures from both Ireland and further afield will give guest lectures on film-making, film producing, screenwriting, acting, film history, and marketing of films, continuing our strong record in attracting notable speakers, including Oscar-nominated filmmakers, producers and actors.

Skills and Careers Information

With masterclasses given by practitioners from the industry, and modules in practical filmmaking/digital video, the BA will aid those seeking jobs in the film/media industry and in creative/culture industries.

The strong emphasis on developing analytical and writing skills will benefit those interested in pursuing a career in arts journalism.

Furthermore, you will develop high levels of visual literacy that will ideally complement further studies (e.g. UCC’s MA in Film and Screen Media), or career paths in a wide variety of design and visual communications areas, including advertising, web and graphic design, television, multimedia, computer gaming and publishing.