Overview

The Film and Media Studies programme at University of California, Irvine (UCI) provides an interdisciplinary approach to the study of visual culture across various screens. Students examine the historical and social backgrounds of film, television, and new media while engaging with cutting-edge research. The curriculum balances theoretical exploration with practical experience in screenwriting and media production.

Why Film and Media Studies at University of California, Irvine (UCI)?

The department is home to an outstanding faculty conducting innovative research in areas such as globalisation, gender studies, queer theory, and critical game studies. Students benefit from a diverse learning environment that bridges the gap between intellectual history and modern digital technologies. The programme's location in Southern California offers a unique vantage point for studying the global entertainment industry.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 56682 per year
National fee: USD 56682 per year
Local fee: USD 19080 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum requires the completion of 12 core and elective courses to provide a deep understanding of the field. Modules may include:

Film and Visual Analysis
Television Analysis
New Media and Digital Technologies
History of Film
History of Radio and Television
History of Digital Media
Film and Media Theory
Screenwriting
Basic Production

Careers with Film and Media Studies

Graduates are well-prepared for professional life within the entertainment industry and beyond. Many alumni secure roles in directing, cinematography, editing, and journalism, while others find success in advertising, marketing, and distribution. The programme also serves as a strong foundation for those pursuing advanced degrees in law or doctoral research.

The department encourages students to undertake professional internships to gain practical experience. Graduates have successfully entered the film, television, and gaming sectors in Southern California and global media outlets. Support services are also available through the university to assist with career counselling and job search techniques.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Film and Visual Analysis

Writing on Film and Media
Critical Theory of Television
Studies in New Media
Topics in Popular Culture and Media
Global/Transnational Cinemas and Media

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

180 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Irvine, United States

Disciplines

Film Studies Media Studies & Mass Media View 755 other Bachelors in Film Studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

You must receive a 3.0 GPA (3.4 for non-California residents) or higher in the 15 required “A-G” subject courses, with no grade lower than a C.
Personal Insight Questions:Your personal insight questions should be exactly that – personal. This is your opportunity to tell us about yourself, what matters to you, your hopes, ambitions, life experiences, and inspirations. First-year applicants choose four out of eight questions to answer.

English proficiency requirements

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

56682 USD / year

≈ 56682 USD / year
Out-of-State

56682 USD / year

≈ 56682 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

19080 USD / year

≈ 19080 USD / year

Living costs

Irvine

United States

1560 - 2585 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Film and Media Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Irvine

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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