BA (Hons) English and Film Studies

Emily Morgan

I chose the University of Portsmouth because it seemed such a vibrant place and I welcomed the independence that came with the University being spread out across the city. The restrictions of a campus university did not appeal to me.  In addition, there are plenty of benefits of being on the sunny South coast, right next to the sea. There is nothing better than working outside in the sun. 

I chose to combine English and Film because I love literature and enjoy learning how to analyse and explore all aspects of film.  The University of Portsmouth offers a chance to actually make films too. This is something that I am passionate about, as it allows me to express my creative side. The chance to work in teams and learn how to thrive independently is both fun and useful. I have certainly enjoyed doing that here.  After I graduate, I plan to follow a career in film production. Portsmouth has definitely inspired me in this. I would not have realised where my true enthusiasm professionally lay if I had not had the opportunity to obtain a degree and further education.

What I like about the course is the wide range of units on offer across the three years. In film, there is literally a subject area for everyone, whether your real obsession lies in Japanese cinema, literary adaptations or video production. In English, whether poetry is your passion, Shakespeare is your soft spot or you have adoration for Austen, the units available make sure you get to learn about what really interests you.

The facilities at the University are great; there are cafes in practically every building, which is useful when you have a break between lectures.  The University Library is very good; there are many workspaces available and friendly librarians to help you find whatever you need.  I am not sure I would have been able to find a house for my second and third year without the Student Housing department. Their list offered a wide range of different sized houses in many locations at varied cost to help each student find a house that would suit them.

Outside of lectures, I am a keen photographer and member of the University Photography Society, where I was vice-president in my second year. The society allowed me to meet people from outside my course, go on trips and generally have fun.  I am part of the University of Portsmouth Student’s Union Media, which publishes the student paper ‘Pugwash’, where I have had book and film reviews published.

I love living in this city. You can be either at home or in a University building, and anything you could possibly need is within walking distance. There are great shops, cinemas and places to eat, so no excuse for not getting any culture.  The best thing about being here is relaxing on the beach, after a hard day’s learning, with all your friends.

Adam Cooper - BA (Hons) Film Studies

There were a number of factors that made me decide to come to Portsmouth: the south coast location, the proximity to London, and the fact that two of the core texts I studied at A Level were written by lecturers here.

The course is great, well organised and above all interesting. This is only enhanced by the teaching and resources staff who are always willing to help out or answer questions.

Perhaps one of the best aspects of university life is meeting like-minded people with the same interests and passions - and in Portsmouth you're never truly stuck for somewhere to go socialising, whether it be the beach or one of the many bars.

Aimee Dibbens - BA (Hons) English Literature

'The BA (Hons) English Literature course is fantastic. It’s brilliantly structured and really interesting and stimulating. The lecturers are superb. They each have their own specialism, so that the teaching is varied and of a high standard. In addition, they are very approachable and provide excellent provision for tutorials and added support if required.

The range of support services that are available is enormous and ever growing, and they provide a brilliant service. Since coming to the University I feel that I have learnt a great deal and grown as a person, which is a direct result of the outstanding staff, facilities and resources.'