University of Southern Queensland

What you'll study

This degree combines practical production units with technical and theoretical study. Early semesters introduce core skills in storytelling, screenwriting, camera operation, lighting, sound recording and basic editing. As you progress you study advanced cinematography, directing for screen, production design, multi‑camera studio techniques, digital post‑production and visual effects workflows.

Project work is central: you will collaborate on short drama and documentary projects, elective specialisms and production crews, culminating in a capstone major project or portfolio piece. Units typically cover:

• Script development and screenwriting craft
• Camera, lensing and lighting techniques for narrative and documentary
• Location sound and production sound mixing
• Editing, colour grading and sound design in industry‑standard software
• Directing actors and on‑set production management
• Producing, budgeting and legal/production business practices
• Documentary production and non‑fiction storytelling
• Emerging forms: online distribution, interactive and short‑form content

Teaching methods include studio workshops, location shoots, edit labs, seminars and guest lectures from industry professionals. Assessment is a mix of practical productions, written analyses, reflective journals and a final major project or industry portfolio.

Entry requirements

Domestic applicants typically need an Australian Year 12 completion or equivalent; entry is via the usual tertiary admission pathway and may consider the applicant's ATAR or equivalent secondary qualification. Applicants without standard academic entry can be considered on the basis of a creative portfolio, a statement of intent and relevant experience. Mature‑age applicants with professional experience in media or related industries are also eligible.

International applicants must hold a recognised secondary qualification equivalent to Australian Year 12 and meet English language proficiency requirements. Applicants may receive credit for prior learning or vocational qualifications (for example, relevant diplomas or certificates in media production) following assessment.

Some units or advanced entry places may require submission of a short portfolio showing creative work — this can include short films, scripts, edited reels, or other relevant screen media. Shortlisting interviews or practical auditions may be used for selection into intensive production units.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a broad range of screen and media roles. Typical career outcomes include:

• Film and television director, assistant director or production crew
• Producer, production coordinator or production manager
• Cinematographer, camera operator or lighting technician
• Editor, colourist and post‑production specialist
• Sound designer, location sound recordist or audio post‑production
• Screenwriter and script developer
• Documentary maker, content producer for online platforms and branded content
• Roles in broadcast, advertising agencies, corporate video and digital media companies

Graduates often work as freelancers or join production companies, broadcasters, independent studios and agencies. The degree develops both creative and practical professional skills that are applicable across short‑form content, long‑form drama and factual production.

Why study at University of Southern Queensland

USQ emphasises applied, career‑focused media education with strong practical learning opportunities. The programme gives students access to industry‑standard production equipment, studios and post‑production facilities, and teaching by staff with professional screen experience. Collaborative project work mirrors real production environments, helping students develop crew skills, portfolio material and professional networks.

USQ also supports flexible study pathways and recognition of prior learning, which benefits students combining study with industry work. Industry engagement, guest practitioners and festival exhibition opportunities help bridge study into employment within the Australian and international screen sectors.