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BA (Hons) Art History and Film Studies
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Art History and Film Studies program at the University of Sussex offers students an exciting interdisciplinary approach to the study of visual culture, combining the historical analysis of art with the critical examination of film as a powerful medium of expression. This program provides a broad understanding of art history, exploring major art movements, visual theory, and the role of art in society, while also focusing on the evolution of cinema, film theory, and its cultural significance. Students develop critical thinking and analytical skills by examining how art and film have shaped, and been shaped by, historical, social, and political contexts. The integration of these two disciplines prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in the arts, media, and cultural sectors.
Curriculum: The BA (Hons) Art History and Film Studies program at Sussex offers a dynamic curriculum that blends theoretical, historical, and practical approaches to the study of both art and film. In the first year, students are introduced to the fundamentals of art history and film studies, exploring key movements in Western art and cinema, as well as gaining a grounding in visual culture and film criticism. The second and third years offer more specialized modules, such as the study of specific art periods (e.g., Renaissance, Modernism, Contemporary Art) and genres of cinema (e.g., documentary, European cinema, global cinema). Students also examine the relationship between art and film, looking at how visual language is used across both mediums. In addition to lectures and seminars, the program incorporates practical elements, including film screenings, museum visits, and workshops that deepen students’ understanding of the material. Students have the option to focus on one of the disciplines or continue with both areas of study, allowing for a personalized learning experience.
Research Focus: The BA (Hons) Art History and Film Studies program at the University of Sussex is deeply embedded in the university's research culture, with faculty members actively engaged in innovative research projects. Sussex has a strong reputation for research in visual culture, film theory, and the history of art, ensuring that students benefit from the latest academic developments. Research topics include the intersections between art and cinema, the role of gender and identity in both fields, postcolonial perspectives on film and art, and the influence of politics and technology on visual culture. The university's emphasis on research-led teaching encourages students to engage with contemporary academic debates, and they are encouraged to undertake independent research projects, which prepares them for postgraduate study or careers in research-driven roles. The program also draws upon Sussex's vibrant arts and media community, where students can interact with professional artists, filmmakers, and scholars.
Industry Engagement: The University of Sussex’s BA (Hons) Art History and Film Studies program provides numerous opportunities for industry engagement, helping students build connections with the art and film sectors. The program’s links to galleries, museums, film festivals, and production companies provide valuable opportunities for internships, work placements, and networking. Sussex's location near Brighton, a hub for the arts, media, and culture, further enhances these opportunities, with access to a wealth of galleries, cinemas, and cultural events. The university also hosts guest lectures, masterclasses, and workshops led by industry professionals, offering students insights into the latest trends and practices in both the art and film industries. Additionally, students benefit from the university’s partnerships with various cultural organizations and film institutions, allowing them to gain practical experience and establish professional networks in the art and film sectors.
Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Art History and Film Studies program at Sussex adopts a global perspective on the study of art and cinema, recognizing the increasingly interconnected nature of visual culture. Students explore not only Western art and film traditions but also global cinema and non-Western art movements, gaining a well-rounded understanding of the diverse ways in which art and film reflect and shape cultures around the world. The program encourages students to consider the global impact of art and cinema, examining how both mediums address universal themes such as identity, politics, and social change. Sussex’s diverse student body and international collaborations further enrich students’ learning experiences, offering them opportunities to engage with a variety of cultural perspectives. By integrating global viewpoints into the curriculum, the program prepares students to work in a wide range of international contexts, whether in art institutions, media, or cultural heritage organizations.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 23175
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 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.
Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.
Graduates of the BA (Hons) Art History and Film Studies program at the University of Sussex are well-prepared to enter a wide range of careers within the art, media, and cultural sectors. This interdisciplinary program equips students with critical thinking, research, and analytical skills that are highly valued by employers across diverse industries. By combining the study of visual culture, art history, and film theory, graduates can pursue various professional roles in both the creative and academic fields.
Curator: Curators are responsible for the care, management, and presentation of artworks and artifacts in galleries, museums, and cultural institutions. Graduates with a background in art history and film studies are well-suited for curatorial roles, as they have a deep understanding of visual culture, art movements, and the role of film in shaping society. They may specialize in organizing exhibitions, managing collections, and interpreting the cultural significance of art and film pieces. Curators also work to ensure that exhibitions are educational, engaging, and accessible to diverse audiences.
Film Producer/Director: Graduates with an interest in filmmaking can pursue careers as film producers or directors. These professionals oversee the production of films, from initial concept development to final post-production. They are responsible for coordinating the entire filmmaking process, including budgeting, scheduling, and liaising with talent and crew members. With a solid understanding of film theory and the history of cinema, graduates can bring a unique perspective to film projects, blending creativity with technical expertise. Additionally, graduates may work on documentaries, short films, or feature films, contributing to a wide range of genres.
Film Critic or Journalist: Film critics and journalists write about films, reviewing them for publications, websites, or television. With a strong foundation in film theory, history, and cultural analysis, graduates of the BA (Hons) Art History and Film Studies program can become film critics, writing thoughtful and insightful reviews and analyses of current films, directors, and trends in cinema. These professionals often work for newspapers, magazines, online platforms, and media outlets, engaging with audiences through their critiques and offering informed perspectives on the art of filmmaking.
Art Auction Specialist: Art auction specialists assess the value of artworks for auction houses, such as Sotheby’s and Christie's. Their expertise in art history and visual culture enables them to provide informed appraisals of art pieces, ensuring that buyers and sellers understand the cultural and financial significance of an artwork. Graduates of the BA (Hons) Art History and Film Studies program, with their knowledge of both visual arts and the broader cultural context of film, can work in this highly specialized field, helping to identify rare and valuable works for auction.
Arts Educator or Lecturer: Graduates with a passion for teaching can become arts educators or lecturers at schools, colleges, or universities. They can teach art history, film studies, or a combination of both, sharing their knowledge of visual culture with the next generation of students. Graduates may also work in adult education or community-based arts programs, engaging individuals with the study of art and film. In addition to teaching, some arts educators may contribute to the development of educational resources, curriculum design, and the promotion of arts education initiatives.
Film Archivist/Restorer: Film archivists and restorers specialize in preserving and restoring films and cinematic materials. This role involves working with historical and contemporary films to ensure their longevity for future generations. Graduates with a background in film studies and art history may pursue careers in this field, where they can apply their understanding of film history and technology to safeguard important cinematic works. Film archivists often work in national film archives, museums, or other institutions that preserve and showcase the cultural heritage of film.
Museum or Gallery Manager: Museum and gallery managers are responsible for overseeing the operations and administration of art institutions, including galleries, museums, and cultural centers. They manage budgets, coordinate exhibitions, work with artists and curators, and ensure that the institution is running efficiently. Graduates of the BA (Hons) Art History and Film Studies program can use their academic background and industry knowledge to manage exhibitions, programs, and collections, as well as develop educational initiatives to engage the public.
Arts Administrator: Arts administrators work in a variety of roles to manage arts organizations, events, and projects. These professionals coordinate logistics, handle funding and budgets, oversee programming, and ensure that organizations meet their goals. Graduates of the program are well-equipped for roles in arts administration, especially in film festivals, art exhibitions, and cultural institutions. They are responsible for the smooth running of arts programs and for promoting the accessibility of the arts to the public.
Screenwriter: Graduates interested in storytelling can pursue careers as screenwriters, creating scripts for television, film, and digital media. With a background in film studies and visual storytelling, graduates can develop original scripts or adapt existing works for the screen. They can write for various genres, from drama to documentary, and contribute to both fictional and non-fictional film projects.
Cultural Critic: Cultural critics write about various forms of cultural expression, including art, literature, film, and television. They analyze the societal and cultural implications of these forms and contribute to discussions about the role of art and entertainment in contemporary society. Graduates of the BA (Hons) Art History and Film Studies program can become cultural critics, offering in-depth analysis and commentary on films, exhibitions, and visual culture in general. They may write for online publications, academic journals, or mainstream media outlets.
Digital Media Specialist: As digital platforms become increasingly important in the arts and media sectors, digital media specialists create and manage content for online audiences. Graduates of the BA (Hons) Art History and Film Studies program, with their knowledge of visual culture and film, can work in digital marketing, content creation, or social media management for art institutions, film production companies, and media organizations. Their expertise can be applied in the promotion of art exhibitions, film releases, and cultural events on digital platforms.
