City

What you'll study

This programme begins with a foundation year designed to build practical and theoretical basics: introductory camera and lighting, editing fundamentals, sound recording, media literacy, introductory screenwriting, and research and academic study skills. After the foundation year you progress into the three-year BA honours curriculum where practical production and screenwriting run in parallel.

• Foundation year modules typically cover practical workshops in camera, lighting and sound; basic editing and post-production; introduction to film language and film history; creative writing and script formats; and study skills for higher education.
• Core production modules across the degree include short-film production, single-camera narrative practice, documentary production, cinematography, production design, location and studio practice, and post-production workflow (editing, colour grading and sound mixing).
• Screenwriting modules focus on structure and form, character and dialogue, writing for different formats (short film, feature, series), adaptation, pitching and development, and collaborative script workshops leading to portfolio-ready scripts.
• Context and industry-focused modules explore film theory, screen industries, distribution, festival strategy, film law and rights, and the business of independent production.
• Final project is typically a substantial practical or mixed media major project (for example a short film or a writer’s portfolio) supported by a research element, with opportunities to collaborate with peers across production and screenwriting specialisms.
• Teaching methods combine practical workshops, studio-based production, script development seminars, lectures, screenings, peer critique and one-to-one supervision. Assessment is by a mix of practical projects, scripts, presentations, reflective journals and written assignments.

Entry requirements

Admission normally requires successful completion of secondary school qualifications such as A-levels, a BTEC National Diploma, the International Baccalaureate or equivalent. Applicants without the standard academic qualifications are considered through the foundation route, which is designed for those who need additional preparation for undergraduate study.

• Applicants are expected to submit a personal statement demonstrating interest in film and writing and a portfolio of creative work where requested; this may include short films, scripts, writing samples or evidence of practical media work.
• Mature applicants and those with relevant vocational experience are encouraged to apply; interview or an audition/portfolio review may be part of the selection process.
• Applicants whose first language is not English must meet recognised English language entry requirements; acceptable qualifications include international English-language tests or equivalent awards.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with practical production experience and a strong writing portfolio, prepared for a range of roles in the creative industries. Typical career paths include screenwriter, script editor, development executive, film and television producer, director of short-form content, assistant producer, production coordinator, editor, camera/lighting operator and sound recordist.

• Many graduates pursue freelance careers in film and TV production or work within small independent companies, production services and agencies.
• The programme also provides a solid foundation for further study at postgraduate level in film, screenwriting, producing or related specialisms, as well as entry into media management, festival programming, film distribution and education.

Why study at City

City is located in central London, offering close proximity to the UK’s film and television industries and regular opportunities for industry guest lectures, visits and networking. The university provides access to practical facilities including dedicated studios, edit suites, camera and sound kit, and collaborative spaces where students can produce portfolio work to professional standards.

• Students benefit from links across the university—such as journalism, theatre and business—enabling interdisciplinary collaboration and an understanding of the wider creative economy.
• City’s emphasis on employability means the course prioritises real-world production practice, professional development sessions, and industry-facing assessment that help students build contacts and a professional showreel or script portfolio before graduation.