Film and Television BA (Hons)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Edinburgh

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Film and Television at the University of Edinburgh is a four-year undergraduate degree that immerses students in the art and craft of screen-based storytelling. Designed for those passionate about film and television production, the program emphasizes creative expression, technical proficiency, and critical analysis.


Curriculum Structure:

Year 1: In the first year, students are introduced to the foundational aspects of filmmaking, including directing, camerawork, editing, and sound. Courses such as 'Introduction to Filmmaking' and 'Visual Storytelling' provide hands-on experience, allowing students to create short films and engage in creative exercises that challenge conventional filmmaking norms.

Year 2: The second year builds upon the skills acquired in the first year, with a focus on developing a personal filmmaking practice. Modules like 'Documentary Production' and 'Fiction Filmmaking' encourage students to explore different genres and styles, fostering an individual approach to filmmaking. Workshops and masterclasses delivered by internal and visiting staff, including sessions provided by the Scottish Documentary Institute, enhance learning and provide industry insights.

Year 3: In the third year, students undertake more advanced projects, refining their technical and creative skills. Courses such as 'Advanced Cinematography' and 'Sound Design for Film' enable students to specialize in areas of interest and produce high-quality work. The emphasis is on professional development, preparing students for careers in the film and television industry.

Year 4: The final year culminates in a significant individual project, allowing students to showcase their abilities and creative vision. Modules like 'Final Major Project' and 'Professional Practice in Film' provide the opportunity to produce a polished piece of work, while also preparing students for the professional world through industry-focused training and networking opportunities.


Focus Areas: Directing, Cinematography, Editing, Sound Design, Documentary Production, Fiction Filmmaking, Experimental Film

Learning Outcomes: Creative Storytelling, Technical Proficiency in Filmmaking, Critical Analysis of Screen Media, Professional Practice in Film and Television

Professional Alignment: The program is aligned with industry standards and practices, preparing graduates for various roles in the film and television industry.

Reputation: The University of Edinburgh's Film and Television program is renowned for its strong emphasis on creative expression and technical skills, providing students with a comprehensive education in screen-based storytelling.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Edinburgh, the Film and Television BA (Hons) is designed to immerse you in practical, hands-on learning from day one. You’ll gain experience across all stages of filmmaking, from pre-production planning to post-production editing, while exploring a variety of screen-based forms including fiction, documentary, drama, and experimental film. The program emphasizes collaboration, allowing you to work closely with peers and students from other creative disciplines at the Edinburgh College of Art, preparing you for the collaborative nature of the film industry.

Your learning is supported by state-of-the-art facilities, professional-grade equipment, and industry-standard software, ensuring you leave with both creative confidence and technical competence. The city of Edinburgh itself also serves as a vibrant backdrop for field projects and cultural engagement, connecting theory with real-world practice.

Key experiential opportunities include:

  • Hands-on production of short films across different roles, helping you develop a comprehensive filmmaking portfolio.

  • Access to professional-standard studios, screening rooms, and editing suites equipped with industry-standard software.

  • Collaborative projects with other disciplines, including Performance Costume, Textiles, and Music students, to create authentic, multidisciplinary productions.

  • Participation in live projects, exhibitions, and competitions that provide industry exposure and practical experience.

  • Internships and placement opportunities within the Scottish and UK audio-visual sectors.

  • Engagement with visiting practitioners through workshops and talks, offering insights into current industry practices.

  • Supportive laboratories and workshops for technical and creative experimentation.

  • Extensive libraries and archives to research film history, theory, and contemporary practice.

  • Opportunities to study abroad or undertake placement years to gain international experience.

This approach ensures that every graduate not only understands the creative and theoretical aspects of film but also develops the professional skills and confidence required to thrive in the competitive world of film and television.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Film and Television BA (Hons) at the University of Edinburgh leave equipped with a professional portfolio and strong practical skills, ready to enter the creative industries. Many alumni pursue careers in film production, directing, or media content creation:

  • Which university services will help students to employ: The Careers Service offers tailored advice, CV workshops, interview preparation, and internship opportunities within the film and media sector.

  • Employment stats and salary figures: Edinburgh graduates in creative arts sectors have strong employability rates, with many securing roles in the UK and internationally; starting salaries for film and media roles typically range from £22,000–£28,000, progressing with experience.

  • University–industry partnerships: The programme maintains strong links with Scottish and UK audiovisual industries, providing networking events, guest lectures, and collaborative projects with professional practitioners.

  • Long-term accreditation value: The degree is internationally recognised, offering credibility for both creative and academic pursuits worldwide.

  • Graduation outcomes: Students graduate with hands-on experience in producing, directing, and editing, alongside transferable skills in storytelling, project management, and collaborative work—preparing them for diverse roles across film, television, and digital media.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can continue their studies through Master’s programmes in Film, Television, or Media Studies, or specialise further in areas such as Screenwriting, Directing, or Digital Media Production, enhancing both expertise and career prospects in creative industries.

Program Key Stats

£36,800
£ 29
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


10 %
No
No

Eligibility Criteria

ABB
3.3
34
80

N/A
N/A
6.5
92

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Film Director
  • Screenwriter
  • Cinematographer
  • Film Editor
  • Production Designer
  • Sound Designer
  • Visual Effects Artist
  • Script Supervisor
  • Television Producer
  • Casting Director
  • Film Critic
  • Documentary Maker
  • Animator
  • Camera Operator
  • Post-Production Supervisor

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