MA (eca) Film Directing

Postgraduate entry requirements:

1. Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate applicants to the University of Edinburgh are typically required to have achieved a minimum academic qualification of approximately 60%, based on their previous academic achievements and qualifications.  

2. English Language Proficiency:  

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 7.0, with at least 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT), with at least 20 in each component (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing).

   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, with at least 59 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs. These scholarships aim to promote diversity, academic excellence, and global engagement. 

Global Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh offers Global Scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate students. These scholarships provide financial assistance towards tuition fees and living expenses, enabling talented students from around the world to access quality education at Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships: International postgraduate students pursuing research-based programs (Ph.D., MSc by Research) can apply for Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships. These scholarships provide full or partial funding for tuition fees and living expenses during the research program.

School-specific Scholarships: Some academic schools and departments within the university offer scholarships targeting international students in specific disciplines or programs. These scholarships may be merit-based or need-based and vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts.

Commonwealth Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh participates in various Commonwealth scholarship schemes, providing opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries to study in the UK. These scholarships are funded by the UK government and other organizations.

External Funding Sources: International students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as government scholarships, private organizations, and international foundations, to support their studies at the University of Edinburgh.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

Graduating from the MA (eca) Film Directing program at the University of Edinburgh opens up diverse career opportunities in the dynamic and competitive field of filmmaking.  

1. Film Director: Graduates of the MA (eca) Film Directing program are well-prepared to pursue careers as film directors. They can work on independent films, documentaries, television series, or feature films, overseeing all aspects of production from concept to completion.

2. Assistant Director: Many graduates start their careers as assistant directors, supporting senior directors on film sets. This role provides valuable experience in production coordination, script supervision, and managing cast and crew.

3. Scriptwriter or Story Editor: Some graduates transition into roles as scriptwriters or story editors, leveraging their creative storytelling skills to develop compelling narratives for film and television projects.

4. Film Producer: With a strong understanding of film production and project management gained from the program, graduates can pursue roles as film producers. They oversee budgets, schedules, and logistics to ensure successful film projects.

5. Film Editor: Graduates with a passion for post-production often pursue careers as film editors. They use their technical skills and artistic sensibilities to assemble footage, edit scenes, and enhance storytelling through visual storytelling techniques.

6. Cinematographer: Some graduates specialize in cinematography, using their knowledge of camera techniques and lighting to capture visually stunning imagery. They collaborate closely with directors to bring creative visions to life on screen.

7. Film Festival Programmer: Graduates interested in film curation and programming may find opportunities as film festival programmers. They select and curate films for festivals, promoting emerging talent and diverse storytelling.

8. Television Director: The skills acquired in the MA (eca) Film Directing program are transferrable to television directing. Graduates can direct episodes of television series, working across different genres and formats.

9. Commercial Director: Some graduates enter the advertising industry as commercial directors, creating engaging and impactful advertisements for brands and agencies.

10. Independent Filmmaker: Many graduates choose to pursue independent filmmaking, producing and directing their own projects. They may seek funding through grants, crowdfunding, or private investors to bring their creative visions to fruition.

11. Academic or Film Educator: Graduates interested in academia can pursue teaching positions in film schools or universities, sharing their expertise and knowledge with aspiring filmmakers.