Film is subject to academic study in a variety of different areas, including film history, criticism, and production. Students often analyze the social, political, aesthetic, and narrative features of a particular work, as well as the general theories that underlie filmmaking as a whole.

Should an individual decide to gain additional certification that they are qualified in a field of study, they may decide to gain a postgraduate diploma. This type of diploma is attained after one has first completed a master's degree.