University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This program combines practical studio- and location-based production with theory and industry studies. You will take core media and communication subjects alongside a specialised sequence in screen production. Typical topics and modules include:

• Foundations of Media and Communication – introduction to media systems, audiences and industry contexts.
• Screen Studies and Film Theory – analysis of narrative, genre, screen aesthetics and historical perspectives.
• Scriptwriting and Story Development – short-form and long-form screenwriting, story structure and pitching.
• Production Practice – directing, cinematography, lighting and production management in workshop settings.
• Editing and Post‑Production – digital editing, colour grading, visual effects basics and sound design.
• Documentary and Factual Production – research, ethical practice and producing non-fiction work.
• Advanced Screen Practicum / Capstone Project – team-based production of short films or web series, often taking projects from development through to festival-ready delivery.
• Media Law, Policy and Professional Practice – rights, contracts, funding models and pitching to industry stakeholders.
• Work-Integrated Learning – industry placements or collaborative projects with local production companies, broadcasters and cultural organisations.

Across the degree students develop a showreel and portfolio of work, and have access to industry-standard equipment and post-production facilities. Electives allow cross-discipline study in areas such as advertising, digital media, journalism or business.

Entry requirements

Admission is primarily via the University of Adelaide's standard undergraduate pathways. Applicants will be assessed on academic qualifications (year 12 or equivalent) or recognised alternative entry routes such as a portfolio, bridging programs or mature‑age entry. Entry to the Screen Production major may consider creative work or a showreel where required.

Domestic applicants should meet the university's general English language and academic requirements; international applicants must meet the university's English proficiency and visa requirements. Additional selection information and alternative entry pathways (such as pathway diplomas or recognised prior learning) are available from the university admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a broad range of roles across film, television and digital media. Common career paths include:

• Film and television director, assistant director or producer
• Cinematographer, camera operator or lighting technician
• Editor, colourist or post-production specialist
• Screenwriter, script editor or development executive
• Sound designer, production sound mixer or audio post‑production
• Production manager, line producer or location manager
• Content creator for online platforms, broadcaster or independent production company roles
• Festival programming, distribution, marketing or media policy roles

Graduates typically enter entry-level production roles and freelance work, building toward specialised careers or entrepreneurship in screen and multimedia enterprises. The degree also provides transferable skills for communications, marketing and content roles across the creative industries.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers a programme that balances practical, hands-on production training with rigorous academic study and industry engagement. Students benefit from access to on-campus studios, editing suites, camera and sound equipment, and opportunities to work on real production briefs.

Located in South Australia, the university maintains connections with the local screen sector and cultural organisations, providing pathways to internships, co-productions and festival exposure. Teaching staff include practitioners and researchers with industry experience, and the curriculum emphasises professional practice, portfolio development and industry networks to support graduate employability.