Sociology and Film (Study Abroad) Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) - BA (Hons)

Why study Sociology and Film at Lancaster?

* Find out how sociologists use theories to interpret and engage with contemporary social issues at local, national, and international levels

* Learn from respected academics who shape public policy through their advisory work, public engagement and media appearances

* Develop advanced skills in critical thinking, data analysis, communication and research design, combined with in-depth knowledge of underpinning theories

* Deepen your knowledge of global film history and theory through our exciting programme while also gaining practical film-making experience

* Benefit from 24/7 access to our editing suites and specialist equipment, including cinema-ready digital cameras and workshop spaces

* Gain inspiration from our team of distinguished academics, passionate filmmakers and experienced industry professionals

How is Sociology taught at Lancaster University?

We bring our ongoing research directly into the classroom to engage you with contemporary debates, methods and findings as they are being developed. You will explore big ideas, not as abstract issues, but as lived experiences that are governed, contested, and researched in specific social contexts. You’ll learn how sociologists frame questions, work with theories to interpret evidence, and draw on data to reveal patterns, inequalities, and social consequences that are not always immediately visible.

By the end of the degree, you’ll have the confidence and skills to engage in lively debates and undertake your own sociological research on topics that matter to you.

What aspects of Film does Lancaster’s course cover?

You will gain an in-depth understanding of the development of cinema, from Victorian novelty films to the thriving global industries of the 21st century. As well as deepening your knowledge of international film history, you will develop skills of close film analysis, examining how formal elements work in concert to produce meanings and generate effects.

You will also build your practical skills in cinematography, editing and sound, and explore film-making styles such as narrative, documentary and experimental. Together with global film practices, storytelling and scriptwriting, and gender and politics in film, you will be introduced to a wide range of themes that could influence the work you produce during your degree and your future career.

You will have access to top-of-the-line production equipment including cinema-ready digital cameras with prime lenses, DSLR cameras, versatile set lighting, grip equipment and full access to Adobe Creative Cloud in our acoustic editing suites.

What opportunities are there outside the course?

You might participate in our student-run cinema Take2, where you can show your films, or LA1TV - our own TV studio.

Our creative community extends from our campus to Lancaster, where the city centre arts venue, The Dukes, shows the latest independent and foreign films. In previous years, final year students have shown their own films there. There are also mainstream cinemas, and the city has a vibrant programme of literary and music events.

We have strong industry connections with The British Film Institute, The Bay International Film Festival, LA1 Shorts Festival and Lancaster International Film Festival. You will have opportunities to attend masterclasses, engage in community-based film productions, and participate in local film festivals.

Study abroad

The study abroad option is an exciting opportunity for anyone who is thinking of working abroad during their career or who simply wants the experience of living and studying overseas as part of their degree. You will study in your third year at one of our international partner universities. This will help you to develop your global outlook, expand your professional network, increase your cultural awareness and develop your personal skills.