BA Film Studies and Chinese

Manchester, England

 

INTAKE: Jan & Sept

Program Overview

The BA Film Studies and Chinese program at the University of Manchester offers a unique interdisciplinary approach combining the study of cinema and Chinese language. This program is designed for students who are passionate about global cinema, particularly Chinese-language films, and want to develop advanced language skills in Mandarin Chinese. Students explore the rich cinematic history and contemporary trends of Chinese cinema while simultaneously learning the Chinese language, its culture, and its global impact. With a strong focus on both theory and practice, this degree provides students with the tools to engage critically with cinema from both the East and the West, preparing them for careers in media, translation, film production, or international relations.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA Film Studies and Chinese program is structured to provide a balance of film theory and practical language acquisition. In the first two years, students study foundational courses in film history, film theory, and film criticism, along with language modules that develop proficiency in Mandarin Chinese, from beginner to advanced levels. The Chinese language component covers reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills, with an emphasis on understanding cultural contexts. Students explore Chinese cinema in-depth, learning about the evolution of the industry, from early cinema to contemporary filmmaking in China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. The program also includes practical elements, such as filmmaking workshops and opportunities for students to create their own film projects. The final year allows students to specialize, with options to focus on areas such as Chinese cinema, comparative film studies, or media culture.

Research Focus: The BA Film Studies and Chinese program at the University of Manchester places a strong emphasis on research in both film studies and Chinese cultural studies. Students are encouraged to explore topics related to Chinese cinema, including its history, key directors, genres, and political influences. Research areas may cover the portrayal of Chinese identity in film, the role of cinema in shaping national narratives, and the impact of globalization on Chinese media. Students also engage with broader themes in film studies, such as genre theory, representation, and the relationship between cinema and society. The university’s strong research environment provides students with access to cutting-edge resources, including film archives, libraries, and online databases, allowing them to conduct independent research projects in their final year.

Industry Engagement: The University of Manchester provides various opportunities for BA Film Studies and Chinese students to engage with the film industry and related sectors. Students benefit from guest lectures, masterclasses, and seminars led by professionals in the film and media industries, particularly those with expertise in Chinese cinema. The program also encourages students to undertake internships or placements with media companies, film production houses, or film festivals, where they can gain hands-on experience. Through its extensive network of industry contacts, the university helps students build connections that can be valuable when entering the job market. Additionally, students have the chance to attend international film festivals, where they can network with filmmakers, critics, and media professionals from China and around the world.

Global Perspective: The BA Film Studies and Chinese program offers a truly global perspective on cinema, emphasizing the importance of understanding different cinematic traditions, particularly the rapidly evolving Chinese film industry. Students explore the cultural, historical, and political contexts that shape Chinese films and learn how Chinese cinema interacts with global media trends. The program also explores the role of cinema in promoting cultural exchange and fostering international understanding. The diverse student body at the University of Manchester enhances this global perspective, allowing students to gain insights from peers from different cultural backgrounds. Furthermore, students may have the opportunity to study abroad in China or other Chinese-speaking regions, providing an immersive experience that enhances both their language skills and cultural understanding.

Pollster Education

Location

Manchester, England

Pollster Education

Score

IELTS 6.5

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

£ 26500

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.

English language proficiency:

  • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
  • TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 90.
  • PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 70.
  • Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

The University of Manchester offers a range of scholarships to support international students in funding their education and making their academic journey more accessible. These scholarships are designed to reward academic excellence, support students from diverse backgrounds, and help ease the financial challenges of studying abroad.

Global Futures Scholarship: The Global Futures Scholarship is a prestigious award for international students who demonstrate academic excellence and potential. This scholarship offers a £5,000 contribution towards tuition fees, providing financial assistance for undergraduate and postgraduate students. This scholarship is open to students from specific countries and disciplines, so it is essential to check eligibility criteria and deadlines.

Undergraduate Scholarships: The university also offers various undergraduate scholarships for international students applying to programs such as law, business, engineering, and the humanities. These scholarships are based on academic achievement and help ease the burden of tuition fees. Some specific subject areas may have unique scholarships based on the department's needs and goals.

Subject-Specific Scholarships: Many departments at the University of Manchester offer subject-specific scholarships for students enrolling in their programs. For example, students applying for programs in engineering, business, life sciences, and the arts may be eligible for additional funding based on academic performance and their future potential. These scholarships are often offered to high-achieving students who demonstrate exceptional skills and dedication to their field of study.

Chevening Scholarships: The Chevening Scholarship is a fully-funded award provided by the UK government, open to outstanding international students from over 160 countries. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living costs, travel expenses, and other related costs. The University of Manchester is a proud participant in this global program and welcomes applications from students wishing to pursue a master's degree in a variety of disciplines.

Regional Scholarships: The university also offers regional scholarships for students from specific countries or regions, including Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. These scholarships are designed to make studying at the University of Manchester more accessible to students from these regions and offer both partial and full financial support depending on the scholarship type.

Graduates of the BA Film Studies and Chinese program at the University of Manchester have access to a wide variety of career opportunities that span the worlds of cinema, media, translation, international relations, and cultural diplomacy. The combination of film expertise and proficiency in Chinese language and culture makes graduates highly competitive in the global job market. 

Film Critic/Journalist: With a deep understanding of both Chinese and global cinema, graduates can pursue careers as film critics or journalists. Writing for newspapers, magazines, online publications, or blogs, they can contribute reviews, essays, and articles that analyze Chinese cinema and compare it with Western cinematic traditions.

Film Production and Direction: Graduates with an interest in filmmaking can pursue careers in film production, where they may work as directors, producers, or screenwriters. Their expertise in both Chinese film and global cinema allows them to contribute to the creation of films that bridge cultural gaps and explore international themes.

Film and Media Researcher: Graduates may work as researchers in film studies, cultural studies, or media departments. They can analyze Chinese cinema and its global influence, contributing to academic research or projects within cultural institutions, universities, and think tanks. Their research might explore Chinese film history, contemporary trends, or cultural diplomacy.

Subtitling and Translation Specialist: Proficiency in Mandarin Chinese allows graduates to work as subtitlers or translators, specializing in Chinese-language films and television. This role involves translating dialogues, scripts, and film-related documents, making Chinese cinema accessible to international audiences and facilitating cultural exchange.

Broadcasting and Journalism in Chinese Media: Graduates with strong Chinese language skills may pursue careers in broadcasting, journalism, or media production, working for Chinese-language networks, television channels, or international media outlets that focus on Chinese content. Roles could include reporters, presenters, editors, and producers.

Cultural Consultant or Advisor: Graduates may become cultural consultants for international film and media companies, offering expert advice on Chinese culture, language, and cinema. They can help ensure that productions are culturally accurate, particularly when it comes to portraying Chinese themes, traditions, and characters.

Film Festival Programming and Management: Graduates with an interest in the organizational side of the film industry may work in film festival programming or event management, particularly at festivals that showcase Chinese cinema. They can curate film selections, organize screenings, and facilitate discussions on Chinese films, contributing to the global appreciation of Chinese cinema.

Education and Academia: Graduates interested in teaching can pursue careers as educators, teaching film studies, Chinese language, or cultural studies at secondary schools, colleges, or universities. With further postgraduate qualifications, they can also engage in academic research and contribute to the study of Chinese cinema and its global influence.

Public Relations and Media Communications: The expertise in Chinese media, combined with knowledge of global film trends, positions graduates for careers in public relations or media communications. They can work for PR agencies, marketing firms, or media companies that specialize in promoting Chinese-language films or working with international film brands targeting Chinese-speaking audiences.

International Relations and Diplomacy: The understanding of Chinese culture and language, paired with film studies expertise, makes graduates well-suited for careers in international relations, cultural diplomacy, and foreign affairs. Graduates can work for embassies, international organizations, or NGOs, fostering cross-cultural dialogue and collaboration.

Translation and Interpretation for Film and Media: With their proficiency in Mandarin Chinese, graduates may work as interpreters for film productions, translating scripts or dialogues, or providing interpretation services during interviews, festivals, or film markets. This role is particularly relevant to the international distribution of Chinese-language films.

Cultural Ambassador or Liaison: Graduates can work as cultural ambassadors or liaisons, promoting Chinese culture and cinema to the international community. They may work for government agencies, cultural organizations, or film commissions, organizing cultural exchanges, events, or film screenings that celebrate Chinese film heritage.


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