University of Hull

What you'll study

This programme brings together workshop-based creative writing with academic and practical film studies. Across the course you will study fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction and scriptwriting alongside modules on film history, genre, film theory and practical production. Teaching typically combines seminars and peer-led workshops, close reading and textual analysis, and hands-on production work using editing software and basic camera equipment.

• Core creative writing modules – short fiction, poetry, long-form prose development, narrative craft, editing and revision, and workshops focused on developing an individual portfolio.
• Script and screenwriting – introduction to dramatic structure, writing for short film and television, adapting material for screen, and collaborative development with production students.
• Film studies modules – film history and movements, national cinemas, auteur studies, genre analysis, and theoretical approaches such as feminism, postcolonialism and psychoanalysis.
• Practical film modules – basic cinematography, editing and sound, short film production projects, and post-production practice using industry-standard software.
• Research and dissertation – a final-year project combining creative work (a portfolio or script) with a critical rationale, or a critical dissertation on a film-related topic.

The course structure usually follows a progressive model: introductory modules in year one to build core skills, subject-specialist and intermediate practice in year two, and an extended creative or research project in the final year. Opportunities for work placements, collaborative productions and contributions to student publications and film festivals are typically available.

Entry requirements

Typical entry is through qualifications such as A-levels, vocational awards (e.g. BTEC), Scottish Highers, or international equivalents. Successful applicants usually demonstrate achievement across at least three A-level subjects or an equivalent level of study. Applicants should meet the institution's standard English language requirement.

• Personal statement that demonstrates engagement with creative writing and film, and explains why you want to study the combined degree.
• Portfolio requirement: many applicants are asked to submit a short creative writing sample (for example, short stories, poems, or a script excerpt) and, if applicable, evidence of film or media work; exact portfolio guidance is provided by admissions.
• Interviews are not always required but may be requested for some applicants, particularly from non-traditional backgrounds.

Applicants with relevant workplace experience, foundation studies, or mature students are encouraged to apply; the admissions team considers a broad range of qualifications and evidence of potential.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with a combination of creative, analytical and technical skills that transfer across the cultural and creative industries. Common career paths include:

• Publishing and editorial roles, including commissioning, copy-editing and literary agenting.
• Screen and media production: assistant roles in film and television production, script development, production coordination and editing.
• Writing careers: freelance or staff writing, screenwriting, content creation for digital platforms, copywriting and creative freelancing.
• Journalism, digital media, public relations and marketing, where storytelling and critical communication are valued.
• Arts management, festival programming and cultural policy, including roles in creative charities and cultural organisations.
• Further study and teaching: many graduates progress to postgraduate creative writing, film studies or teacher training (PGCE) as routes into education and academic careers.

The combination of practical production experience and critical study aims to make graduates adaptable in a rapidly changing media landscape, equipped for both freelance work and staff roles.

Why study at University of Hull

The University of Hull has a long-established humanities provision with staff active in creative and scholarly publishing, offering a supportive environment for developing both craft and critical thought. Students benefit from workshop-based teaching, opportunities to work on collaborative film projects, and access to campus facilities such as creative writing centres, screening spaces and media labs.

Hull provides an engaged student community with writing groups, student magazines and film societies that give practical experience of producing, promoting and distributing creative work. The university also encourages industry engagement through guest lectures, local cultural partnerships and placement opportunities that help bridge academic study and professional practice.