MA Film, Photography and Media

Program Overview

The MA in Film, Photography, and Media at the University of Leeds offers an exciting opportunity for students to explore a combination of media forms and practices in a rapidly changing global landscape. The program blends creative media production with critical academic theory, enabling students to develop their artistic talents alongside analytical skills. This course is ideal for those wishing to pursue careers in media production, digital content creation, media analysis, or academic research. Students gain an in-depth understanding of film and photography as forms of artistic expression, while also exploring how these media intersect with the global media industry and influence public perception and culture. Through practical workshops, theoretical courses, and independent projects, students are equipped to become leaders in the field of media and communication.

Curriculum: The MA in Film, Photography, and Media features a rich and diverse curriculum that combines theoretical insights with hands-on production experience. Core modules typically include Media Theory and Practice, Visual Culture and Photography, and Film and Media Production, all designed to foster a deep understanding of media aesthetics and its cultural impact. Students are given the flexibility to specialize in various areas, including Digital Photography, Film Analysis, Media Arts and Technology, and Documentary Production. The program is structured to ensure that students are equipped with the critical skills needed to analyze visual media, understand media production processes, and engage with evolving technological advancements in the media industry. Practical experience is integrated into the curriculum, with opportunities for project-based work and the creation of media content, including film and photographic pieces, which form a key part of the final assessment.

Research Focus: The University of Leeds is renowned for its cutting-edge research in film, photography, and media studies. The MA in Film, Photography, and Media program encourages students to engage in interdisciplinary research, focusing on the aesthetic, social, and cultural implications of visual media. Research areas at Leeds include the study of digital media, visual culture, cinematic history, photography’s role in society, and the intersection of media with contemporary political and social issues. The university is also known for its work on the impact of new technologies on film and media practices, exploring how innovations such as virtual reality, digital film production, and social media platforms have transformed the media landscape. Students in the program are encouraged to develop their own research agendas, supported by a faculty of internationally recognized experts in film and media studies.

Industry Engagement: The MA in Film, Photography, and Media offers strong industry engagement, preparing students to succeed in the competitive media sector. Leeds has strong ties with leading media organizations, film studios, production companies, and cultural institutions, providing students with valuable networking opportunities, internships, and work placements. Students benefit from guest lectures, seminars, and workshops with industry professionals, allowing them to gain first-hand insights into the latest trends and technologies in film and media. The university’s industry links also ensure that students have access to real-world projects, which allow them to apply their academic learning to practical challenges in the media industry. These experiences help to develop students' professional portfolios, enhance their employability, and give them a competitive edge in the job market.

Global Perspective: The MA in Film, Photography, and Media at Leeds offers a global perspective on the media arts, encouraging students to explore media practices, trends, and cultures from around the world. The program examines global media networks, the influence of international cinema, photography’s role in shaping global narratives, and the cultural impact of digital media. Students are encouraged to analyze media content across different cultural contexts, considering how issues like globalization, social media, and transnational communication affect the production and consumption of visual media. Additionally, the program benefits from Leeds’ strong international research community and global partnerships with universities, media companies, and creative industries. This international approach ensures that students gain an understanding of the media landscape on a global scale, which is critical for those pursuing careers in international media production, communication, or academic research.