Filmmaking BA (Hons)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Nottingham Trent University

Program Overview

The Filmmaking BA (Hons) at Nottingham Trent University offers a hands-on, industry-focused approach to film production, ideal for creative students passionate about storytelling, directing, producing, or screenwriting. Students will explore all aspects of filmmaking while developing a professional portfolio through practical projects and industry collaborations.

Curriculum Structure:

Year One:
Students are introduced to the fundamentals of filmmaking, gaining practical skills in sound, camera, and editing through the Craft Skills and Technologies module. They will also explore film theory and critical approaches in Approaches to Film, and develop storytelling techniques in Storytelling and Production, completing projects across documentary and drama genres.

Year Two:
The focus shifts to experimentation and advanced production techniques. In Experimental Film, students explore avant-garde filmmaking, while Film Production 1 emphasizes independent creative projects across fiction, documentary, or experimental genres. Co Lab: Research, Exploration and Risk-taking encourages teamwork on socially impactful projects, integrating sustainability, social justice, and innovation.

Year Three / Final Year:
Students undertake Film Production 2, creating professional-standard projects for festivals while refining technical and creative skills. The Film Crew Collaboration project enables them to work in teams on major productions, applying industry practices. Optional modules like Motion Graphics, Music Video, or Virtual Production allow students to specialize and enhance their portfolios. A placement year is also available for real-world experience, potentially earning a Certificate or Diploma in Professional Practice.

Focus Areas: Filmmaking techniques, storytelling, digital production, experimental film, collaborative projects, industry placements

Learning Outcomes: Develop practical and theoretical filmmaking skills, produce a professional portfolio, collaborate effectively in creative teams, and understand industry practices

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): Approved by the International Moving Image Society, ensuring industry-relevant training

Reputation (Employability Rankings): Ranked Top 15 in the UK for Art and Design by the Complete University Guide 2026

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students on the Filmmaking BA (Hons) program at Nottingham Trent University gain hands-on experience across all aspects of film production, from storytelling and directing to editing and experimental filmmaking. The course emphasizes practical learning in professional settings, using industry-standard equipment and software. Throughout the program, students work on individual and group projects, live briefs with industry partners, and have opportunities to showcase their work to creative professionals.

This practical approach ensures you build a professional portfolio ready for the film and media industry:

  • Work in the New Design & Digital Arts Building, equipped with professional studios, high-end cameras, and editing suites.

  • Access industry-standard software including Adobe Creative Suite and DaVinci Resolve for editing, post-production, and visual effects.

  • Participate in group projects, including short drama films, documentaries, and experimental productions.

  • Undertake an optional placement year (Sandwich route) for real-world industry experience, earning a Certificate or Diploma in Professional Practice.

  • Collaborate on student film crews, taking on different production roles to develop teamwork and leadership skills.

  • Engage in research and experimental projects, exploring innovative filmmaking techniques and alternative storytelling.

  • Take part in international exchanges and optional study trips to film festivals and events across Europe, including Northern Arizona University.

  • Showcase your films to industry professionals through graduating student showcases and networking events.

  • Choose from optional modules such as Motion Graphics, Virtual Production, Music Video, Sound Art & Design, and more, tailoring your hands-on learning to your interests.

This combination of professional facilities, collaborative projects, software expertise, and real-world experience ensures graduates are well-prepared to launch careers in producing, directing, writing, and other creative roles within the film industry.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Future Progression & Opportunities: Graduates from the Filmmaking BA (Hons) at Nottingham Trent University are well-prepared to enter the creative industries, with strong skills in directing, producing, and content creation. Many go on to roles such as Film Director, Producer, or Screenwriter, equipped with a professional portfolio and industry experience:

  • University support for employment: NTU’s Employability and Careers Service offers guidance on CV building, interview preparation, and networking within the film industry.

  • Employment stats and salary: Graduates of NTU Art & Design programs have strong employment outcomes, with many entering creative roles within six months of graduation. Typical starting salaries in the UK film and media sector range from £22,000 to £30,000, with growth as experience develops.

  • University–industry partnerships: Students collaborate on live briefs with industry partners and may attend international film festivals, supported by connections with organisations like the International Moving Image Society.

  • Accreditation value: The course is approved by the International Moving Image Society, ensuring industry-recognised standards in training and creative output.

  • Graduation outcomes: Alumni often progress into professional filmmaking, media production, or creative consultancy, with the practical experience and portfolio developed during the course providing a competitive edge.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates can choose to advance their studies through postgraduate courses such as an MA in Filmmaking, Screenwriting, or Film Production, or explore specialised areas like Digital Media, Animation, or Media Management to enhance career prospects in creative industries.

Program Key Stats

£18,250
£ 29
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


No
No

Eligibility Criteria

BBC
3.0
28
65

N/A
N/A
6.0
73

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Film director
  • Cinematographer
  • Screenwriter
  • Film editor
  • Producer
  • Production designer
  • Sound designer
  • Visual effects artist
  • Script supervisor
  • Casting director
  • Documentary filmmaker
  • Film critic
  • Film marketer
  • Camera operator
  • Film festival coordinator

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