MA Migration Studies
The MA in Migration and Refugee Studies at Sussex is a one-year full-time or two-year p...
BA (Hons) Filmmaking
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Filmmaking program at the University of Sussex offers students the opportunity to explore the art and craft of filmmaking in a dynamic, hands-on learning environment. Designed for those who are passionate about storytelling through visual media, this interdisciplinary program provides a comprehensive education in all aspects of film production, from pre-production to post-production. Students develop technical skills in film production while also engaging with the cultural, theoretical, and critical aspects of cinema. The program encourages creativity, innovation, and independent thinking, preparing students to work in the fast-paced and evolving film industry. With a strong emphasis on practical experience and industry collaboration, the program equips graduates with the knowledge and skills to pursue careers in filmmaking, media production, and other related fields.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Filmmaking program is structured to provide students with a balanced understanding of both the practical and theoretical aspects of filmmaking. In the first year, students are introduced to the fundamentals of filmmaking, including film production, scriptwriting, cinematography, sound, and editing. They gain hands-on experience through workshops and collaborative projects, working with industry-standard equipment. As students progress through the program, they specialize in areas such as directing, producing, screenwriting, cinematography, or editing, depending on their interests and career aspirations. The program also incorporates critical studies in film theory, history, and genre, ensuring that students can contextualize their creative work within broader cultural and historical frameworks. The final year culminates in a major project or short film production, allowing students to showcase their skills and creativity. Throughout the program, students benefit from a combination of practical assignments, group work, and individual projects that prepare them for real-world filmmaking challenges.
Research Focus: The research focus of the BA (Hons) Filmmaking program at Sussex is centered around the intersection of creative practice and critical theory. Students are encouraged to explore a wide range of topics related to film and media, from cinematic history and theory to contemporary filmmaking techniques and digital media trends. Research topics may include film narrative structures, the role of cinema in society, the analysis of visual and auditory elements in filmmaking, or the impact of new technologies on the filmmaking process. The program promotes critical thinking and independent research, enabling students to develop a deeper understanding of the social, cultural, and technological contexts in which films are created. Faculty members are active researchers in the field of media and film studies, providing students with expert guidance and support for their research projects.
Industry Engagement: The BA (Hons) Filmmaking program at the University of Sussex is designed to provide students with significant industry engagement opportunities, helping them build valuable professional networks and gain practical experience. The university’s connections with the film and media industries offer students the chance to work on live projects, internships, and placements with production companies, film festivals, and media organizations. This industry involvement not only enhances students' technical skills but also provides them with insight into the day-to-day operations of the film industry. The program’s emphasis on collaboration with professionals in the field ensures that students are prepared to enter the competitive job market. Additionally, students benefit from workshops, masterclasses, and guest lectures led by industry experts, providing them with valuable knowledge of current industry trends, best practices, and career paths in filmmaking.
Global Perspective: The global perspective of the BA (Hons) Filmmaking program at the University of Sussex is reflected in its diverse approach to film education. The program encourages students to explore global cinema, examining the differences and similarities in filmmaking practices across cultures. Students engage with both Western and non-Western films, gaining an understanding of how film is used as a tool for cultural expression, social change, and political commentary around the world. The program also offers opportunities for students to study abroad or participate in international film festivals, allowing them to experience filmmaking practices in different cultural contexts. This global perspective is valuable for students pursuing careers in international film production, film distribution, or global media organizations, as it helps them navigate the complexities of the global film industry.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 23175
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.
Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.
The BA (Hons) Filmmaking program at the University of Sussex offers students a wealth of opportunities to pursue exciting careers in the film and media industries. By combining practical filmmaking skills with theoretical knowledge and critical analysis, graduates are equipped to thrive in various roles within the film production, media, and creative sectors. The program emphasizes hands-on experience, industry engagement, and collaboration, ensuring that students graduate with the necessary skills, portfolio, and network to succeed in the highly competitive world of filmmaking.
Film Production and Direction: Graduates of the BA (Hons) Filmmaking program are well-prepared for careers as film directors, producers, or assistant directors. With practical experience in directing short films, producing content, and working on live projects, students gain valuable insights into the filmmaking process. Whether they are interested in narrative filmmaking, documentary production, or experimental media, the program provides the technical and creative foundation necessary to oversee a project from concept to completion. Graduates can work in feature film production, television, independent filmmaking, or even work with studios and production companies that focus on creating branded content or commercial videos.
Cinematography and Camera Operations: Cinematography is a key area of focus within the program, and many graduates choose to pursue careers as cinematographers or camera operators. They may work on everything from short films and documentaries to television shows and feature films, mastering the art of visual storytelling. With a strong foundation in camera work, lighting, and visual composition, students are trained to create striking, high-quality images that are central to the filmmaking process. Graduates often work as freelance cinematographers or collaborate with other filmmakers and production companies on a wide variety of media projects.
Film Editing and Post-Production: The technical skills developed in the BA (Hons) Filmmaking program make graduates highly sought after for careers in film editing, sound design, and post-production. As editing and post-production play a crucial role in shaping a film’s final narrative, students learn to use industry-standard software and tools, such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and Avid Media Composer. Graduates can work as editors, sound designers, colorists, or visual effects artists, helping bring together raw footage, sound, and visual elements into a polished, professional finished product. Post-production work is in high demand across the entertainment industry, making it a viable career path for graduates.
Screenwriting and Script Development: Graduates with a passion for storytelling may pursue careers as screenwriters, script editors, or content developers. The program’s focus on narrative development, structure, and the creative process equips students with the skills necessary to craft compelling scripts for films, television series, and digital content. Graduates may work on writing original scripts, adapting existing works, or providing script editing and development support for other filmmakers. Many screenwriters work in the film, television, or online content sectors, collaborating with production companies and television networks to create engaging narratives.
Film and Media Criticism/Journalism: For those who are more interested in the analytical side of filmmaking, the BA (Hons) Filmmaking program offers the critical thinking and writing skills necessary to pursue careers in film criticism or media journalism. Graduates can work as film critics, bloggers, or journalists for newspapers, magazines, digital publications, and online media platforms. With an understanding of cinematic history, film theory, and contemporary media trends, they are well-positioned to review films, write analysis, and critique media content for a variety of audiences. This pathway also includes roles in film journalism, where graduates may cover the entertainment industry, film festivals, or new media developments.
Production Design and Art Direction: For students with a flair for visual design and storytelling through set creation, a career in production design or art direction could be the perfect fit. Graduates can work as production designers, art directors, or set decorators, collaborating with directors and producers to visually realize the story world. Whether designing sets for film, television, or theater, these professionals play a crucial role in shaping the look and feel of the production. They are involved in designing sets, props, and costumes, creating the visual environment that enhances the narrative and atmosphere of the film.
Sound and Music Production: Film and media production is heavily reliant on sound to complement visual storytelling, making careers in sound design, sound editing, or music production a natural progression for graduates. Students trained in audio technologies, sound effects, and post-production audio work are well-prepared for roles as sound designers, sound editors, foley artists, or music supervisors. The growing use of music and sound in digital content also opens up opportunities for graduates to work in video game sound design, commercials, or branded content.
Film Distribution and Marketing: Some graduates may choose to pursue careers in the business side of the film industry, focusing on film distribution, sales, or marketing. These roles involve promoting films to global audiences, negotiating distribution deals, and working with production companies, distributors, and streaming services. Graduates can also work in film festival management, where they can help organize screenings, promote independent films, or manage marketing strategies for films. Roles in distribution and marketing require strong communication, organizational, and strategic thinking skills, all of which are cultivated throughout the program.
Freelance and Independent Filmmaking: The versatility of the BA (Hons) Filmmaking program also allows students to work as independent filmmakers, either as freelancers or entrepreneurs. With the knowledge and skills gained from the program, graduates can create their own short films, documentaries, and multimedia projects. They may also be involved in producing, directing, and distributing independent films, often working with small budgets but making a big impact on niche audiences or film festivals. Freelancing allows for flexibility and the chance to work on diverse projects, making it a popular path for many creative filmmakers.
Creative and Media Arts Education: Some graduates of the BA (Hons) Filmmaking program may choose to share their knowledge and passion for filmmaking by becoming educators. Whether teaching film production, media studies, or creative arts, graduates can work in secondary schools, colleges, or universities, inspiring the next generation of filmmakers. Many may also opt to provide workshops or training sessions for emerging filmmakers, helping them hone their craft.
