Scotland on Screen

Join us to uncover how cinema shapes our understanding of Scotland and its rich cultural heritage.

Over decades, filmmakers have imagined Scotland according to their (often stereotypical) ideas. This course explores how Scotland and its people have been, and sometimes still are, depicted in Hollywood and other cinemas.  

You will discuss supernatural and romanticized visions of Scotland, along with Scottish customs and culture represented in cinema. You will also investigate how national identity is represented on screen and the connections between film and other forms of art.  

Any essential or recommended reading will be shared by the course teacher once the course is confirmed to run. You will require access to a device with an internet connection. 

If you have fully engaged with all the learning activities and have attended regularly, by the end of the course, you should be able to:  

• Describe how the understanding of Scottish identity has evolved over decades in international cinema;
• Understand how ideas, themes, and images develop across different art forms like literature and visual art;
• Recognise the difference between national particularities and stereotypes.  

No previous experience is required.  

We welcome all and are committed to fostering a positive culture and sense of community among learners and staff. We expect learners to treat others with dignity and respect. Learners must be aged 16+.  

If you have a disability, learning difficulty, health condition, or personal circumstances which may affect your learning, please let us know so that we can make appropriate adjustments in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.  

Wherever possible, we mainstream adjustments in line with the University’s accessible and inclusive learning policy. 

Learners will have limited access to the University’s student support services who will signpost appropriate local sources of support. 

This course is suitable for those with no prior experience of university study.  

You will need to have reading, listening and communication skills, including the ability to understand detailed ideas and information presented verbally and in writing. You must be comfortable learning in English if it is not your first language. You will need basic digital skills, such as using a computer and navigating a website, to access the learning materials.

Please note that the course booking deadline is 8 days before the course start date.