University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This program blends practical production units with screen studies and professional practice. Core topics include screenwriting, directing for camera, cinematography, lighting, production management, sound design, editing and post-production workflows. You will study screen theory and genre, script analysis, and the business of screen production, including budgeting, legal and ethical issues.

Practical learning is delivered through progressively complex production projects: short films, documentary and multi-camera studio work, and digital media content for online platforms. A final capstone project or production portfolio demonstrates your creative and technical capability. Elective options allow you to specialise in areas such as documentary, animation collaboration, visual effects, cinematography or producing.

Teaching methods include workshops, studio practice, collaborative group productions, seminars and supervised industry placements or internships where available. Assessment commonly combines practical projects, written reflective journals, portfolio submissions and critical essays.

Entry requirements

Admission is typically based on a competitive senior secondary school result or an equivalent qualification. Applicants may also be considered through recognised alternative entry pathways, including mature-age entry, recognised diplomas, or portfolio-based assessment. Where required, applicants should submit a portfolio or showreel of creative work and may be asked to attend an interview or audition.

International applicants must meet the University's English language requirements through a recognised test or approved equivalent. Specific entry criteria and any assumed knowledge (such as experience in creative practice or basic digital media skills) are published by the University and should be consulted during application.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a range of roles across screen industries and related creative sectors. Common career paths include film and television director, producer, screenwriter, camera operator/cinematographer, editor, sound recordist/designer, production manager, or content producer for digital platforms.

Skills gained in the degree — project management, collaborative production, technical proficiency with camera and editing tools, storytelling and industry literacy — also suit careers in advertising and marketing, immersive media, festival programming, education and cultural organisations, or independent freelance practice.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers a rigorous creative arts education within a research-led university, combining theoretical rigour with practical training. Students benefit from access to industry-standard production facilities, editing suites and sound studios, and are based in a city with an active film and festival community that provides local networking and screening opportunities.

Teaching staff bring professional and academic experience in screen production and media studies, and the program emphasises real-world project work and professional practice. Cross-disciplinary collaboration is encouraged, allowing students to work with peers in performance, music, design and other creative fields across the University.