Bournemouth University

What you'll study

This programme combines practical production practice with contextual study of film and television industries. You will learn core technical skills in camera, lighting, sound recording and post-production editing alongside modules in screenwriting, directing, production management and collaborative production. Teaching emphasises project-based learning: short drama, documentary and factual formats, multi-camera studio work, and online/digital content.

• Core production skills: camera operation, lighting, location sound, grip and rigging, and continuity.
• Post-production: non-linear editing, colour grading, sound design and finishing for broadcast and online platforms.
• Creative practice: screenwriting, directing actors, story development and visual storytelling.
• Production management: budgeting, scheduling, health & safety, legal and regulatory frameworks, rights clearance and producing.
• Context and analysis: film and television history, audience and industry studies, and contemporary distribution models.
• Professional practice: project pitching, work placement or live briefs, festival strategy and building a showreel/portfolio.

Assessment is a mix of practical projects, portfolios/showreels, reflective logs and written analysis. Throughout the course you will work in production teams, taking on roles that mirror industry practice to build experience and credits for your CV.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed secondary education such as A‑levels, a BTEC National Diploma, or equivalent qualification. Specific offers vary; the programme also welcomes mature students and those with relevant vocational experience. Admission decisions take account of academic qualifications together with a creative portfolio or showreel and, where applicable, an interview or audition.

• Typical academic profile: completed secondary qualifications such as A‑levels or BTEC; exact offers depend on the applicant and recent cohort requirements.
• Portfolio/showreel: applicants should submit examples of film, video or media work where possible; this can include short films, camera tests, edited sequences or production logs.
• Interview: applicants may be invited to an interview (in person or online) to discuss interests, experience and motivation for film and TV production.
• English language: non-native speakers are required to meet the university's English language requirements or provide an accepted qualification/score.
• Alternative entry: applicants without traditional qualifications but with relevant creative or industry experience are considered on an individual basis.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles across film, television and digital media. The course is designed to equip you with practical credits and a professional portfolio that employers seek.

• Production roles: assistant producer, production coordinator, production manager, line producer.
• Creative and technical roles: camera operator, assistant camera, sound recordist, lighting technician, editor, colourist.
• Post-production and finishing: online editor, sound designer, post-production coordinator.
• Broadcast and multi-platform: studio floor roles, multicamera operator, vision mixer, content producer for online platforms.
• Freelance and entrepreneurial paths: starting an independent production company, freelance directing, producing or specialising in a technical craft.
• Further study: many graduates progress to postgraduate courses in film production, screenwriting, cinematography or related fields to specialise further.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University is known for its practical, career-focused approach within a strong screen and media community. The university provides industry-standard production facilities, editing suites and sound studios that allow students to work with professional equipment and software. The course emphasises employability through live briefs, guest talks from industry professionals, opportunities to take part in festivals and screening events, and connections with regional and national production companies.

Teaching is delivered by staff with professional production experience and by regular visiting practitioners, ensuring a curriculum aligned with contemporary industry practice. The programme's collaborative environment mirrors real-world production teams, helping you build the technical competence, creative confidence and professional network needed for a career in film and television production.