Overview
Why choose this programme
We’re at the forefront of new knowledge in fields including literature, translation, language, linguistics, creative writing, and film studies. With a strong focus on research and writing in international contexts, we can provide you with a network of research links and support for your professional or academic career.
Our film researchers work on a range of specialist topics within the areas of cinema studies and visual studies, including:
- issues of gender
- the connection between music and the cinema
- documentary film and media
- genre cinema
- cognitive analysis of the moving image
- animation studies.
Our researchers have close links to the Department of Music and Media at Surrey, which also carries out cutting-edge research.
Our diverse mix of subject specialities means we’re a vibrant and imaginative community with plenty of opportunity for intellectual exchange.
What you will study
The Film Studies programme of the University of Surrey will train you in critical and analytical skills, research methods, and knowledge that will equip you for your professional or academic career. It normally takes around three or four years to complete our full-time PhD.
You’ll be assigned a primary and secondary supervisor, who will meet with you regularly to read and discuss your work and make sure that you’re on track. For us, writing is essential for understanding and developing new perspectives, so you’ll be submitting written work right from the start of your course.
In your first year, you’ll refine your research proposal and plan the structure of your work with the guidance and support of your supervisors. As you go into your second and third year, you’ll gradually learn to work more independently, and your supervisors will guide you on how to present at conferences and get your work published.
After 12-15 months, you’ll submit a substantial piece of work for a confirmation examination. The examination will be conducted by two internal members of staff not on your supervisory team, and will give you the opportunity to gain additional guidance on your research-to-date. Following submission of your completed thesis, a viva will be conducted by a panel of one or more external examiners as well as an internal examiner.
Programme Structure
Research themes- Environmental humanities
- Animation
- Documentary
- The film industry and popular film/culture.
Key information
Duration
- Full-time
- 48 months
- Part-time
- 96 months
Start dates & application deadlines
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Language
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Delivered
Disciplines
Film Studies Media Studies & Mass Media Drama View 72 other PhDs in Film Studies in United KingdomAcademic requirements
English requirements
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Student insurance
Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items, so make sure your student insurance ticks all the following:
- Additional medical costs (i.e. dental)
- Repatriation, if something happens to you or your family
- Liability
- Home contents and baggage
- Accidents
- Legal aid
We partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.
Get your student insurance nowStarting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.
Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at University of Surrey and/or in United Kingdom, please visit Student Insurance Portal.
Other requirements
General requirements
- Applicants are expected to hold a good first degree (a minimum 2:1 or equivalent) and an MA in a relevant topic.
- IELTS Academic: 7.0 or above with a minimum of 6.5 in each component (or equivalent).
Tuition Fee
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International
18600 GBP/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 18600 GBP per year during 48 months. -
National
4712 GBP/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 4712 GBP per year during 48 months.
Part time:
- UK: £2,250
- Overseas: £8,800
Living costs for Guildford
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Funding
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Scholarships Information
Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Film Studies.
Available Scholarships
You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.
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