Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This programme combines practical production modules with critical and contextual study of digital media. You will develop skills across camera, lighting, sound recording, multi-camera and single-camera workflows, nonlinear editing, motion graphics, colour grading and basic visual effects, plus training in production planning, budgeting and legal/ethical issues. The course supports projects for factual and narrative formats, short films, documentaries, branded content and interactive media.

Core themes typically include:

• Technical production: advanced camera techniques, studio and location lighting, professional sound capture and multi-camera directing.
• Post-production: editing craft, sound design, colour grading and motion graphics using industry-standard software.
• Production management: project development, budgeting, scheduling, rights clearance and distribution strategies.
• Digital and interactive media: cross-platform storytelling, web video, social distribution and emerging-format production (VR/AR introductions where available).
• Research and theory: media studies perspectives, audience analysis, ethics and the cultural industries.
• Major project: a substantial practical production or portfolio project accompanied by a reflective or research dissertation.

Teaching methods include studio workshops, practical labs, production projects, seminars and one-to-one supervision for the major project. Assessment is by practical productions, portfolios, written reports or reflective journals, and a final major project.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a UK honours degree at 2:1 or equivalent in a relevant subject such as media production, film studies, journalism, design, or a related arts/technology discipline. Applicants with a lower classification but with substantial relevant professional experience in media production may be considered.

Applicants should provide a portfolio or showreel demonstrating practical work (this can include short films, edited sequences, audio work, web videos or interactive projects) along with a personal statement outlining aims and relevant experience. International applicants will be required to meet English language requirements; typical offers expect a recognised qualification demonstrating competence in academic English (for example an IELTS score at a level commonly required for master's-level study, with minimum component scores). Specific portfolio guidance and exact English-test requirements are provided on the university's programme pages.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a wide range of roles across the creative industries and media sectors. Typical career paths include camera operator, editor, sound recordist/designer, assistant producer, production manager, post-production specialist, content producer for digital platforms, and roles in broadcast, independent production companies, corporate and branded-content agencies. The programme also prepares students for freelance careers and for further research or practice-led doctoral study.

Students benefit from opportunities to build a professional showreel and portfolio, make industry contacts through guest lectures and production briefs, and develop the business and self-promotion skills needed for freelancing and entrepreneurship in the media sector.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes combines practical facilities and production spaces with an applied approach to teaching. The university offers access to production equipment, editing suites and dedicated workshop environments supported by technical staff. The course emphasises employability, with industry-informed modules and opportunities to collaborate on live briefs and cross-disciplinary projects.

Located within reach of a rich creative ecosystem, students can draw on regional production networks and cultural organisations while benefiting from the university's support services for careers, enterprise and postgraduate research. The teaching team typically includes practitioners and researchers with industry experience, ensuring a connection between contemporary production practice and critical media perspectives.