BA (Hons) Drama and Film (with placement)

The BA (Hons) Drama and Film program at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) offers students a comprehensive exploration of both disciplines, providing a rich understanding of the theory and practice of drama and film. This four-year program, including a placement year, prepares students for careers in the dynamic fields of theater, film, television, and digital media. Students have the opportunity to develop practical skills, critical insights, and creative vision necessary for success in the industry.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Drama and Film program at Anglia Ruskin University is carefully designed to cover a wide range of topics relevant to both disciplines. Students study core modules such as Introduction to Drama, Film History, Screenwriting, Directing, and Production Design. They also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as acting for film, cinematography, editing, sound design, or film theory. Practical workshops, screenings, and film productions allow students to develop their technical skills and artistic vision, while theoretical modules deepen their understanding of dramatic and cinematic techniques, aesthetics, and genres.

Research Focus: Anglia Ruskin University encourages research within the BA (Hons) Drama and Film program, providing students with opportunities to explore topics of interest and develop their research skills. Faculty members are actively engaged in research across various areas, including film studies, theater studies, media theory, and cultural studies. Students have access to research facilities and resources, enabling them to conduct independent research projects, write dissertations, and contribute to the academic discourse in drama and film studies.

Industry Engagement: ARU fosters connections with industry partners to ensure the BA (Hons) Drama and Film program remains relevant and aligned with industry needs. Through guest lectures, masterclasses, and placement opportunities, students have the opportunity to interact with professionals in the film, television, and digital media industries. These industry connections provide students with valuable insights into current practices, trends, and career opportunities in areas such as film production, post-production, distribution, and exhibition.

Global Perspective: With a commitment to global perspectives, Anglia Ruskin University offers students a global outlook within the BA (Hons) Drama and Film program. The curriculum incorporates international films, filmmakers, and cinematic traditions to broaden students' understanding of film as a global art form. Opportunities for international exchanges, film festivals, and collaboration with international filmmakers further enrich students' cultural awareness and appreciation of diverse cinematic cultures and practices.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs are typically required to have a minimum academic qualification of 55% or above in their previous studies. The specific entry requirements may vary depending on the program applied to.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 88, with at least 17 in Listening, 18 in Reading, 20 in Speaking, and 19 in Writing.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 62 with no individual score below 59.
• Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

Anglia Ruskin University in the UK offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to international students to support their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize and reward exceptional academic achievements and provide financial assistance to deserving students. 

Vice Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to international students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance and potential. The scholarships are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Successful candidates receive a tuition fee discount, which varies based on the level of study and the applicant's academic qualifications.

International Merit Scholarships: Anglia Ruskin University offers merit-based scholarships to international students who have achieved exceptional academic results in their previous studies. These scholarships are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The scholarship amount is determined based on the applicant's academic qualifications and may cover a percentage of the tuition fees.

Country-Specific Scholarships: Anglia Ruskin University also provides scholarships specifically tailored to students from certain countries. These scholarships aim to promote cultural diversity and academic excellence. The eligibility criteria, scholarship amounts, and application procedures vary depending on the country of origin.

External Scholarships and Funding: In addition to the university-specific scholarships, international students at Anglia Ruskin University can explore external funding options available through government scholarships, foundations, and organizations in their home countries. The university's scholarship office provides guidance and support in identifying and applying for these external scholarships.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary each year.

Graduates of Anglia Ruskin University's BA (Hons) Drama and Film program possess a versatile skill set that opens up diverse career opportunities in the dynamic fields of theater, film, television, and digital media. This four-year program, including a placement year, equips students with practical experience, theoretical knowledge, and creative vision necessary for success in the industry. 

Film Director: Graduates can pursue careers as film directors, overseeing the creative vision and artistic direction of film productions. They collaborate with writers, cinematographers, editors, and actors to bring scripts to life on the screen. Film directors conceptualize scenes, guide performances, and make creative decisions to ensure the overall success of the film.

Screenwriter: Graduates can work as screenwriters, developing scripts for film, television, or digital media projects. They create compelling narratives, develop characters, and craft dialogue that engages audiences and brings stories to life on the screen. Screenwriters may work on original scripts, adaptations, or collaborative projects with directors and producers.

Film Producer: Graduates can pursue careers as film producers, overseeing the logistical, financial, and administrative aspects of film productions. They secure funding, manage budgets, and coordinate resources to ensure the smooth running of film projects. Film producers collaborate with directors, writers, and production teams to bring films to fruition.

Cinematographer/Director of Photography (DoP): Graduates can work as cinematographers or directors of photography (DoPs), responsible for capturing visually stunning images that convey the mood and tone of film productions. They collaborate with directors to create the desired look and feel of the film, using lighting, composition, and camera movement to enhance storytelling.

Film Editor: Graduates can pursue careers as film editors, shaping raw footage into cohesive narratives that engage and entertain audiences. They work closely with directors to assemble scenes, cut sequences, and refine pacing to achieve the desired emotional impact. Film editors may also collaborate with sound designers and visual effects artists to enhance the overall cinematic experience.

Production Designer/Art Director: Graduates can work as production designers or art directors, responsible for creating the visual world of film productions. They collaborate with directors and cinematographers to design sets, costumes, props, and visual elements that enhance storytelling and evoke the desired mood and atmosphere.

Post-production Specialist: Graduates can work in post-production roles, specializing in areas such as sound design, visual effects, or color grading. They use advanced software and techniques to enhance the audiovisual quality of film productions, adding layers of depth and complexity to the final product.

Film Critic/Reviewer: Graduates can pursue careers as film critics or reviewers, analyzing and evaluating films for print, online publications, or broadcast media. They provide insightful commentary, critique performances, and assess the artistic and technical merits of films, helping audiences make informed decisions about what to watch.