Our teaching team will help you pursue an interest in films and the fascinating world of the media. 95% of media students agree that Sunderland’s staff are good at explaining things, according to the National Student Survey. Compared to some of our other media-related courses, this course has more emphasis on theory. Core modules include ‘Film Theory and Criticism’, ‘History of Cinema’ and ‘Media Studies’. In addition you will choose from a wide range of optional modules. Examples of theory-based modules include ‘European Film and Society’, ‘Film, Horror and the Body’ and ‘Power, Politics and the Media’. Other optional modules are much more focused on practical skills or areas of particular interest. Examples include ‘Video Production’, ‘Print Journalism’ and ‘Hitchcock’. The University is a very supportive environment and we encourage you to develop your own opinions and creativity. During the course you will build up degree-level knowledge and skills of critical analysis and independent judgement. You will also develop expertise in academic research, particularly through writing a dissertation on a subject-relevant topic of your choice. Our teaching is enriched by Sunderland’s cutting-edge research. We host the Centre for Research in Media and Cultural Studies. In the latest Research Assessment Exercise, 65% of our research was rated ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’.

This degree provides an excellent foundation for a wide range of careers in the media. Examples of possible sectors include: TV Radio New Media Journalism Marketing Public Relations Organisational Communications Advertising. Recent graduates from Sunderland have gained jobs with employers such as: BBC (including Radio 1) Channel 4 Sky TV MTV The Guardian Regional newspapers PR companies. Your knowledge and transferable skills will also be relevant to roles in many businesses and the public sector. Another option at the end of the course is to continue your studies to Masters or PhD level.