Film & Media

Duration
21 July - 8 August 2025
Course Type
Summer School, Undergraduate

Based in the Department of Film and Creative Writing, this programme will provide you with an introduction to studying and experiencing film and media culture in the United Kingdom.

This 3-week programme will be taught by academic staff and PhD researchers in the Department of Film and Creative Writing whose specialities cover a broad range of areas: from horror cinema to animation to independent filmmaking. Teaching will be a combination of lectures, seminars, and a group filmmaking project to be completed under the guidance of a dedicated mentor. Students will be introduced to the basics of film production; develop their knowledge of film theory; and work with specialists who possess creative, technical, and academic expertise in film and media. They will receive formal training to use filmmaking equipment and will have a chance to utilise the Film Studio and Edit Suites in the process of undertaking a sweded film project. 

 

The intensive three week programme in Film & Media covers an array of topics including:

  • Film Screenings

You will engage in critical textual analysis and discuss film aesthetics, production processes and viewing contexts.

  • Tours

Tours during the programme may include the BBC Centre, independent cinemas and the Warner Bros. Studio.

  • Storytelling

You will explore some different theoretical constructs and consider the ways in which stories utilise particular tactics and techniques.

  • Ethical Filmmaking

Introducing a range of important ethical issues generated by filmmaking, using key examples from film, television and social media.

  • Post-Truth, Absurdity and the Memeplex

Sessions devoted to the study and analysis of film and media within the contemporary context of ‘post-truth’, introducing you to the complexities of postgraduate film studies.

  • Genre

You will look at the evolution of quality/complex TV, and consider the functions of genre in film and television through a close analysis particular genres.

  • Place, Space, Location, Representation

Introducing ideas related to film and place from local, national and global perspectives, whilst building on the experiences of the local tours.

  • Filmmaking Workshops

Sessions focusing on screenwriting, pre-production, lighting, acting, directing, sound and editing.

  • Sweded Film Production

In groups, you will produce short films, putting into practice the ideas, theories and practical techniques you have learned.

How to Apply

The BISS was an exceptional and International experience for me. It did not only advance my studies and knowledge of Film and Media, but even gave me the chance to make friends across the globe and grow personally.

Maren, Film & Media programme

To be accepted onto the Film & Media programme you must:

  • Be aged 18 years or over at the start date of the BISS programme.
  • Be studying an undergraduate programme at a University outside the UK or be registered as an International student at a UK university.
  • Be of good academic standing (based on a translated transcript, verified by your University).
  • Meet the BISS Entry Requirements

In previous years, students who have successfully transferred credits from our courses have received up to 20 UK credits, 5 US credits, or 10 ECTS. Students who wish to gain external credit should speak to their own institution to see if they will accept credits. 

On completion of the programme you should be able to

  • Identify key elements of film form and style to perform a close analysis of a shot
  • Apply theoretical knowledge to the practical aspects of film production
  • Develop your practical skills with film equipment and filmmaking techniques
  • Evidence your learning in creative ways with a group filmmaking project

Assessment Methods

At the end of the programme, students will be invited to showcase their work in a state-of-the-art screening room on campus. There will be a formal assessment consisting of a) an individually completed 500-word reflection on the practice of filmmaking and b) assessment of the filmmaking project itself.

A pass requires a minimum of 40% in combination with a minimum attendance.