Film and Cultural Management (MA)

University of Southampton

This master's degree provides an in-depth understanding of the film industry, film theory, and the modern cultural sector, specifically focusing on how cultural management affects visual media. The course examines the significant importance of film on society. Depending on module choices, you will study real-world topics such as: Film festivals and specialist programming. Cultural policy, exhibition, marketing, and audience development. The role of film agencies. You will gain insight through case studies that draw on local, national, and international examples, studying the cultural sector's increasingly significant role in political, social, and economic policy. We are ranked 2nd for Communication and Media Studies (research quality) in the UK (Complete University Guide 2026). Key Features of this Course Interdisciplinary Focus: Combines academic film studies (theory, textual analysis, film history) with practical cultural management principles. Global Context: Modules offer a comparative study of contemporary global film industries, with a particular focus on the UK, Europe, and East Asia. Dissertation: The program culminates in a 15,000-word dissertation (10,000 words for the Film Studies option) where you conduct original research on a film or cultural management subject of your choice. Core Modules: Include studies on Classical Film Theory, Current Issues in Film Distribution and Exhibition, Film Policy: National and Global Contexts, and Post-Classical Film Theory. Tutor Expertise: The course is led by Dr. Ruby Cheung, an internationally recognized specialist in contemporary Hong Kong cinema, Chinese-language film industries, and film festivals. Career Prospects This degree prepares you for a career in management, administration, and creative roles within the film, media, and arts sectors. Graduates commonly work in a range of organizations, including: Film Production Companies and Television Stations Arts Organisations, Museums, and Galleries Digital and Print Media/Broadcasting Events Organisation and Theatres Roles in Journalism or as a Self-employed professional The program also offers a pathway to further study at the PhD level. Further Information Location: The course is based at the Avenue Campus. Duration: Full-time study is 12 months (8 months taught modules, 4 months for the dissertation). It is also available as a part-time master's over two or more years.