Careers and employability

Careers and employability | School of Languages, Cultures and Societies | University of Leeds

Your Film Studies degree will equip you with a wide range of transferable skills which will be attractive to graduate employers across many industries.

You’ll graduate as a critical thinker, able to research different sources and form conclusions from your research.

You'll develop excellent communication skills to enable you to explain and defend your views clearly, either when speaking or in writing.

Leeds graduates have an excellent reputation and Leeds is the 5th most targeted university in the UK by graduate recruiters (The Graduate Market in 2022).

Leeds and film

Leeds and the surrounding areas has a long association with the development and creation of film.

There are many opportunities to take advantage of opportunities in Leeds to attend guest lectures and events from people in the industry. 

The annual Leeds International Film Festival, Yorkshire Silent Film Festival and numerous independent cinemas, including art-house cinema the Hyde Park Picture House provide opportunities for part-time work, volunteering and placement opportunities. 

We're also very close to Bradford, the home of the National Science and Media Museum.

What can I do with a Film Studies degree?

Graduates have gone on to succeed in careers such as:

  • journalism and publishing
  • the media
  • law
  • marketing and advertising
  • education
  • charity work
  • business and finance
  • academic research
  • civil service.

Some of our graduates have continued to postgraduate study, either for a Masters course to develop further knowledge of their subject area or to study an MA by Research, as preparation for a PhD or a chosen career.

What careers support will I have?

You’ll benefit from bespoke support and opportunities in the School, with access to the activities and expertise of the award-winning University Careers Centre.

School support

Workshops and events are organised for you by the School throughout the year and focus on networking, hearing from alumni about their career experiences and hosting graduate recruiters who want to hire you.

We'll also keep you informed of work and voluntary opporutunities that you can fit around your studies. 

University support

Our experts in the University Careers Centre will support you to make informed decisions about your career path; helping you to understand the opportunities available whilst outlining the steps you need to take to pursue your choices. You’ll be encouraged to attend on-campus events including graduate recruitment fairs, employer networking and information sessions, and meetings with our alumni.  

Your year abroad

By choosing an optional study abroad or work placement year you'll also gain valuable experiences and skills to help you in the graduate job market.

Leeds University Union

Our award-winning students' union provides career-related support through the part-time job hub, student societies and other activities throughout the year.

Clubs and societies are a great way to get involved in lots of activities and explore your interests, providing opportunities to develop skills such as team working and leadership.

You could also be a key player in an award-winning sports team, or become a committee member and chair society meetings, or you could even project manage a volunteering trip overseas. The Union is home to School Reps who are appointed by students to represent the views and be the voice of students in your School.

Enterprise

At Leeds, you can access support to help you start your own business. Whether you want to learn about enterprise or become an entrepreneur, we offer award-winning specialist support.