University of Malta

What you'll study

The programme is practice-led and research-informed, balancing hands-on production work with theoretical and methodological study. Core themes typically include advanced production and direction, dramaturgy and performance practice, screenwriting and narrative development, post‑production and digital media workflows, and research methods for creative practice.

• Advanced Production and Direction — project planning, crew management, directing actors, technical coordination for screen and live work.
• Writing and Narrative — screenwriting, adaptation, dramaturgical approaches for theatre and television formats.
• Performance and Voice — advanced actor‑director collaboration, movement and vocal techniques for stage and screen.
• Post‑Production and Media Technologies — editing, sound design, colour grading, and workflows for digital distribution.
• Research Methods for Practice — qualitative and practice-based research methods, ethics, and contextual literature that support an expanded creative project.
• Major Project / Dissertation — a substantial practice-based final project (e.g. short film, theatre production, pilot script) accompanied by a critical exegesis situating the work within contemporary practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised undergraduate degree in film, theatre, media, creative arts, or a related discipline. A strong portfolio or showreel demonstrating relevant practice and potential is usually required. Candidates without a directly related degree but with substantial professional experience in the creative industries may be considered on a case‑by‑case basis.

Additional requirements commonly include academic references and a personal statement outlining proposed project interests. Where applicable, evidence of English language proficiency is required for non-native speakers in line with University of Malta regulations.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a broad range of creative, cultural and research roles across screen and live performance sectors. Typical destinations include roles as directors, producers, screenwriters, dramaturgs, creative producers, editors and post‑production specialists. Graduates also pursue careers in festival direction, programming, arts management, education and research, or continue to doctoral studies and academic careers.

Why study at University of Malta

The University of Malta offers the benefits of a national university with close connections to local cultural organisations and a strong regional context for Mediterranean and European practice. Students gain access to campus production facilities, media labs and performance spaces while working with academic staff and visiting practitioners active in theatre, television and film.

Study at Malta provides practical opportunities for collaboration across disciplines and professional networks in a compact cultural ecosystem, supporting the development of both creative practice and the research skills needed for sustained careers in the creative industries.