MPhil in Film and Screen Studies by thesis

This MPhil by Thesis provides an opportunity to study the theory and history of film and other screen media in a vibrant interdisciplinary context. The moving image is explored in relation to the development of modern and contemporary culture, as well as the history and theory of other media (literature, music, the visual arts, architecture, and the digital). Students are immersed in a research environment that emphasises work on geopolitics, early cinema, art cinema and the avant-garde, theory, aesthetics, and gender and sexuality.

The MPhil by Thesis is for students who already have a substantial level of familiarity with the study of film and literary texts in the relevant culture and who already know the area they wish to research for their thesis. To be eligible for consideration, applicants will need an appropriate level of linguistic and/or cultural expertise and a clear idea of the area in which the thesis will be written.

The full-time course runs from October to June, with a submission date of early June.

It is also possible to take a part-time route. The expected timeframe would be 20 months, with a thesis submission date of early June in the second academic year of study.

The main aims of the course are:

• to develop and test the ability to carry out a substantial advanced project of independent research in an area of  film and screen studies, presented in the form of a 30,000-word thesis
• to develop and test the ability to make a significant contribution to learning via dedicated Masters-level research that reflects the course length

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the programme students will have:

• developed a deeper knowledge of the history and theory of film and screen studies in a cultural context
• developed a conceptual understanding of the debates which have shaped that field of study, and of current research methods
• acquired or consolidated skills appropriate for research in their chosen area
• demonstrated independent judgement based on their own research
• participated effectively in seminar discussions
• managed a sizeable research project (culminating in a 30,000-word thesis), which will represent a considerable achievement in its own right and prepare students for longer research projects (in particular, a PhD).

Continuing

If you wish to continue from the MPhil in Film and Screen Studies (by Thesis) to a PhD then you will need to:

• submit an application for the PhD
• acheive a minimum of a pass in the MPhil
• demonstrate your suitability to undertake doctoral-level research. 

Open Days

The University hosts and attends fairs and events throughout the year, in the UK and across the world. We also offer online events to help you explore your options:

• Discover Cambridge: Master’s and PhD study webinars - these Spring events provide practical information about applying for postgraduate study.

• Postgraduate Virtual Open Days - taking place in November each year, the Open Days focus on subject and course information.

For more information about upcoming events visit our events pages.