Filmmaking BA (Hons)

If you’re passionate about telling stories through film, the BA (Hons) Filmmaking degree at the University of East London (UEL) is a fantastic way to turn that passion into a career. From your very first day, you’ll be immersed in the craft of filmmaking — not just studying theory, but actually creating films, working in teams, and gaining real-world experience with professional tools and settings.

This course focuses on learning by doing. You’ll write, shoot, and edit your own short fiction and documentary films, gaining practical skills in every part of the production process.

Here’s a closer look at the kind of hands-on experiences you’ll have:

• Collaborative filmmaking: You’ll take part in team-based productions where you’ll rotate through key crew roles such as directing, cinematography, sound, and editing — just like on a real film set.

• Professional equipment and facilities: UEL’s Docklands campus is home to a dedicated film production studio, editing suites, and a fully equipped media production centre, giving you the same tools used in the industry.

• Work with film and digital: UEL is one of the few UK universities where you can gain experience shooting on 16mm film as well as modern digital formats — helping you understand both traditional and contemporary filmmaking methods.

• Industry engagement: Throughout the course, you’ll connect with professionals through guest lectures, live briefs, networking opportunities, and partnerships with film festivals and production companies. Many students even see their work screened publicly before graduating.

• Optional placement year: Between your second and third year, you’ll have the opportunity to take a year-long placement with a film-related company or organisation, giving you valuable industry experience and contacts.

• Digital and emerging technologies: You’ll also explore new creative possibilities through modules like Virtual Futures, where you’ll learn about VR, AR, and generative AI — skills that are increasingly shaping the future of film and media.

• Supportive learning environment: UEL provides everything you need to succeed — from networked computers, laptop loans, and virtual learning platforms (like Moodle and MS Teams) to a 24/7 library at the Docklands campus.

By the time you graduate, you’ll have built an impressive portfolio, developed professional connections, and gained the confidence to step directly into the film industry or pursue your own creative projects.

Future Progression & Opportunities

Graduates from this programme go on to build exciting careers across the film, media and creative industries. Many step into roles such as Film Director, Cinematographer (Director of Photography), Film Editor, and Production Manager. Throughout your degree, you’ll develop the creative, technical and professional skills needed to confidently move into production-based roles in this fast-paced field.

How the degree supports your career development:
You’ll have full access to the University of East London’s Career Zone, which provides tailored support to help you launch your career. This includes a dedicated jobs board featuring internships, graduate roles and flexible part-time work; mentoring opportunities with industry professionals; one-to-one career coaching; and employer-focused workshops designed to help you stand out in the creative job market.

Employment outcomes:
Around 70% of students from this subject area are in employment within 15 months of graduation, with approximately 80% in work and/or further study — a strong reflection of how well-prepared graduates are for the industry.

Industry recognition:
The course is accredited by ScreenSkills, the leading industry body for film, television, visual effects, animation and games. This accreditation ensures your training meets professional standards and gives your degree added credibility in the eyes of employers.

Professional connections:
You’ll benefit from the university’s strong partnerships with organisations such as Film London, Close-Up Film Centre, Just Runners UK, and Film & Video Umbrella — offering valuable networking and collaboration opportunities.

Long-term value:
With professional accreditation, close industry ties and extensive hands-on production experience, this qualification provides a strong foundation whether you choose to specialise further or move into leadership roles within the creative industries.

Graduate success stories:
Recent graduates have gone on to exciting roles — one secured a producer position within months of finishing the course, while another worked as a camera assistant on a high-profile film set.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BA (Hons) Filmmaking, you can choose to continue your journey with postgraduate study, such as the MA or MFA in Filmmaking at UEL. These advanced programmes offer in-depth training in production and post-production, collaboration with industry experts, and access to state-of-the-art facilities — helping you take your creative practice and professional development to the next level.