Film production is the academic study of the entire process of creating a film, from pre-production to post-production. It encompasses all aspects of filmmaking, including screenwriting, storyboarding, cinematography, editing, sound design, directing, and producing.
The UK is home to some of the world's most prestigious film schools, including the National Film and Television School (NFTS), the London Film School, and the University of Westminster. These institutions offer a range of film production degrees at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, typically covering topics such as screenwriting, directing, cinematography, sound design, and post-production, as well as film theory and analysis.
Studying film production in the UK can also provide access to a vibrant and dynamic film industry, with opportunities for networking and building professional connections.
Learn more below about the top UK universities for studying Film Production below (Guardian University Guide 2023) or book a free consultation with SI-UK India today to begin your film application.
Top Five Universities for Film Production in the UK
1. University of Sunderland
Film production courses at the University of Sunderland help students explore various aspects of filmmaking, such as directing, scriptwriting, editing, cinematography, and documentary production.
The university's film production and photography courses have received recognition, with a ranking of first in the UK by the Guardian University Guide in 2023. Students have also won awards from the Royal Television Society and the Sunderland International Short Film Festival, and their work has been featured in promotional materials across the country.
Additionally, the university has a regional office of the acclaimed independent production company Fulwell 73, which provides students with direct experience and insight into how a leading production company operates. A bachelor's degree in film production at the University of Sunderland offers core modules like single camera production, introduction to sound recording and mixing, narrative scriptwriting, introduction to film studies, short film production, and studio practice for TV and virtual production.
- Suggested course: BA (Hons) in Film Production
- Entry requirements: ABB in A-levels or equivalent international qualifications
- International fees: £14,000
2. University of Glasgow
The study of film and television is approached critically in the vibrant media context of the University of Glasgow. The programmes cover the historical, theoretical, and practical study of screen production, with guest lectures from practitioners and policymakers in the creative industries. Film & Television Studies (FTVS) is a dynamic subject area within the School of Culture & Creative Arts and has gained national and international recognition in the field.
An undergraduate degree in film production at the University allows students to combine core and optional courses to delve into more specialised areas of study through these approaches, exploring the role of practical work in improving comprehension of both media.
- Suggested course: MA in Film and Television Studies
- Entry requirements: AAAAA Higher or AAAA Higher+B Advanced Higher in A-levels or equivalent international qualifications
- International fees: £23,520 per year
3. Edinburgh Napier University
Prospective students can gain practical and creative skills that are essential for a career in contemporary filmmaking by studying the art and craft of cinema at Edinburgh Napier University. The programme provides an in-depth grounding in production practices, technical processes, and creative skills that are crucial for a career in the media and creative industries.
Students are encouraged to think critically and creatively from the outset, and they develop their skills through practical work, learning how to convey their ideas effectively. The curriculum covers scriptwriting, directing, producing, documentary filmmaking, production design, cinematography, editing, sound design, and other essential roles in industrial and independent film-making practices.
At the University, students work with purpose-built post-production facilities at Merchiston Avenue. The degree boasts fully equipped specialist film facilities such as professional film lighting, high-end digital cinema cameras, Pro Tools, Avid Media Composer edit suites, a professional dubbing theatre, and a grading suite.
- Suggested course: BA (Hons) in Film
- Entry requirements: BCC in A-levels or equivalent international qualifications
- International fees: £16,425 per year
4. University of York
Studying Film and Television Production at the University of York means students will have access to top-quality single and multi-camera facilities led by industry experts who are film and television professionals.
Under their guidance, students can develop skills in directing, editing, camera operation, writing, and recording, all essential for tackling different genres and professional disciplines. The three-year film and television production bachelor's degree is designed to provide students with opportunities to create their own dramas, documentaries, and studio programs and hone their specialist skills in large-scale group productions.
By studying at York, students can follow in the footsteps of graduates who have already established themselves as cinematographers, writers, film and studio directors, editors and vision mixers, audio production and postproduction professionals, production managers, production designers, and researchers.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Film and Television Production
- Entry requirements: AAB in A-levels or equivalent international qualifications
- International fees: £21,950 per year
5. University of Kent
Media programmes offered by Kent University are renowned for their contemporary media theory and practical approach. Students will gain a competitive edge in navigating the constantly evolving digital age and acquiring skills that are in high demand in the media industry.
The course prepares students for employment in the digital space and creative industries. It is taught by experts in the field and offers both theoretical and practical modules, allowing students to learn about digital culture and society, industry and creative production, factual entertainment, and promotional media.
Throughout the three-year programme, students can delve into the language of film, including framing, sound, editing, performance, and lighting. The first year provides an opportunity to explore the theory and history of film and engage in practical filmmaking modules. In the second year, students have the freedom to select modules of their interest, thus allowing them to develop and specialise in the areas they are most passionate about.
The final year offers the same level of flexibility, with a range of modules available for selection, as well as the option to undertake independent projects, such as dissertations or creating their own film.
- Suggested course: BA (Hons) in Film
- Entry requirements: BBB in A-levels or equivalent international qualifications
- International fees: £21,900
Study Film Production in the UK
For more information on studying film production in the UK, get in touch with SI-UK India today. You can also book a free consultation to begin your application for the upcoming entry.