MA by Research Film, Theatre and Television

Program Overview

The MA by Research in Film, Theatre, and Television at the University of Reading is a specialized postgraduate program designed for students who wish to undertake independent research in the fields of film, theatre, and television. The program offers an opportunity to explore critical issues and practices in these disciplines through an in-depth, research-driven approach. Ideal for students aiming for academic careers or careers in media-related industries, the MA by Research emphasizes developing advanced research skills while fostering creativity and critical thinking. Students will have the flexibility to choose a research topic that aligns with their interests, while benefiting from the expertise and support of leading academics in the field. The program culminates in a dissertation, allowing students to make a significant contribution to the scholarly understanding of film, theatre, or television.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA by Research in Film, Theatre, and Television is designed to give students the skills and knowledge needed to carry out advanced research. While the program is primarily research-focused, it includes essential modules that support the development of research methodologies and academic writing. Students will engage with key concepts, debates, and theories within the fields of film, theatre, and television studies, allowing them to frame their research in a broader context. The program offers a tailored approach, where students can focus on particular aspects of these media, such as film theory, dramatic literature, performance studies, television history, or the cultural impact of digital media. Students are encouraged to explore interdisciplinary approaches and can work across multiple areas, blending different mediums to enrich their research. Throughout the course, they will receive personalized supervision from expert faculty members, guiding them toward the successful completion of their research project.

Research Focus: The research focus of the MA by Research in Film, Theatre, and Television at the University of Reading is diverse and interdisciplinary, spanning a wide range of topics within the three fields. Areas of research include film theory, history, and criticism, the evolution of theatre practices, media and cultural studies, television studies, gender and performance, digital media and new technologies, and the impact of media on society. Students are encouraged to approach these topics from a critical, theoretical perspective, considering how film, theatre, and television reflect and influence cultural, social, and political contexts. Faculty members at the University of Reading are actively engaged in pioneering research, and students benefit from this expertise in their own projects. The university's research strengths lie in areas such as European cinema, British theatre, performance history, and the analysis of popular television. The MA by Research provides students with an environment conducive to developing original research ideas and producing substantial academic work.

Industry Engagement: While the MA by Research is primarily an academic program, it offers numerous opportunities for industry engagement. The University of Reading has strong connections with the film, theatre, and television industries, providing students with access to professionals and resources. Students are encouraged to engage with industry experts through seminars, guest lectures, and workshops, which bring real-world insights into their research. The program also offers opportunities to participate in film screenings, theatre productions, and media events, fostering an understanding of industry practices and trends. The university’s location in the United Kingdom, with its thriving film and television industries, allows students to connect with potential collaborators, mentors, and employers. Additionally, Reading’s proximity to London provides students with access to a major cultural and media hub, offering networking and career opportunities in various media sectors.

Global Perspective: The MA by Research in Film, Theatre, and Television offers a global perspective on media, culture, and performance. Students will explore film, theatre, and television as global forms of artistic and cultural expression, engaging with work from a variety of international traditions. The program encourages students to analyze media in both local and global contexts, considering how films, theatrical works, and television programs engage with cultural, social, and political issues across different countries and regions. The program also integrates comparative perspectives, where students can study media industries and media production from diverse cultural frameworks. The University of Reading attracts a global cohort of students and researchers, offering an international environment where students can exchange ideas and perspectives with peers from different parts of the world. This global perspective is reinforced through access to research on international media, fostering an understanding of the global flow of cultural products and media representation.