MA Film Practice
- Time investment
- 2 years part-time
- Location
- Online
- Cost
- £9,975
- Language
- English
About this degree
Make your mark in the world of film
Taught by practising filmmakers, academics, and moving image artists, this two-year online master’s supports you to develop and realise your individual creative vision. You’ll explore a range of forms—from narrative fiction and documentary to experimental and hybrid works—within an international learning community.
Through a dynamic blend of bespoke lectures, seminars, practical assignments, and one-to-one tutorials, you’ll expand your film practice while engaging critically with its histories, theories, and evolving forms.
Guided readings and screenings will deepen your understanding of contemporary issues in film, while collaborative and independent projects help refine your voice as a filmmaker.
Develop your filmmaking expertise and creative voice
You’ll have opportunities to work independently and collaboratively through projects considering how films and moving image works are developed, funded, presented, and disseminated.
Through a structured framework of research-driven experimentation, peer feedback, and mentorship, you’ll expand your understanding and refine your skills, preparing you for a career in film.
The MA Film Practice culminates in each student creating a substantial short film or moving image work accompanied by a practice-research document that critically reflects on, and articulates the research, development, and making of their final MA work.
Grow your comprehensive filmmaking skillset
The MA places a significant emphasis on practical application, encouraging you to produce a thesis film that encapsulates your learning. This capstone project is supported by the ‘Thesis Film Proposal’ and ‘Thesis Film Resolution’ units, which guide you from conceptualisation to execution.
You’ll navigate every stage of film production, from pitching your ideas to delivering a polished final product, ensuring you leave this master’s with a compelling piece in your portfolio to distinguish you in the competitive film industry.
Cultivate a creative mindset with practical application
Next, you’ll immerse yourself in the interplay of design and psychology by exploring modules like “Graphic Design, Psychology and Cognition” and “Behaviour Change using Visual Design.”
This will help you deepen your insight into how design impacts human behaviour, enhancing your capability to influence positive societal changes through your creative endeavours.
Pursue diverse filmmaking careers
You’ll become attuned to contemporary developments within the cinematic landscape. Plus, you’ll receive mentorship and guidance from an experienced academic team, aiding you in translating theoretical knowledge into practical proficiency.
Completing this master’s means you’ll open an array of career opportunities. Whether your passion leads you towards becoming an independent filmmaker or a documentary maker, taking on commercial work or working the expansive field of contemporary film and moving image, this degree’s robust framework will set you up for success.
Some graduates choose to use the skills and knowledge from the MA to pursue work as a freelance creative. Some have moved towards working as assistant directors, producers, cinematographers, or even entering academia, either as a tutor or undertaking further study at the PhD level.
Where you’ll be studying
Studying at Arts University Bournemouth
AUB is a leading university offering high-quality specialist education in art, design, media and performance across the creative industries.
Based in one of the UK’s fastest growing creative and digital hubs, AUB connects students with real industry opportunities right on their doorstep.
With expert tutors, professional studios and a collaborative community, you’ll graduate with the skills and confidence to build a career doing what you love.
Find out more about this degree
Additional information
Standard route applicants are required to have a BA (Hons) degree graded at 2.2 or above, or an equivalent qualification in film or a related area such as photography, animation, contemporary art, ethnography, or media.
Non-standard route applicants with other qualifications and/or relevant experience that demonstrates appropriate skills, and knowledge will also be considered.
You can expect to study between 15–20 hours per week for this programme. Plus, there are built in break periods between every unit so you'll have a chance to rest and recharge.
Whether you're at the beginning of your career or looking to sharpen your skills, the MA Film Practice empowers you to elevate your filmmaking prowess within a supportive and challenging academic environment.
- Independent Filmmaker: Create films that express your distinct vision, contributing to both independent and mainstream cinema.
- Documentary Filmmaker: Work independently, with community groups or NGO’s (non-governmental organisations and non-profit groups) to use film to explore humanitarian and social issues.
- Producer: Oversee film and moving image projects from concept to completion, managing budgets, schedules, and diverse creative teams.
- Production Coordinator: Act as the organisational hub in the films production to ensure a seamless workflow across all departments and members.
- Film Educator: Share your expertise and inspire future filmmakers through teaching.
You can also choose to refine your practice further, honing your research and critical skills at the PhD level.
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