Undergraduate course
BA (Hons)
Filmmaking
Our BA empowers diverse storytellers to craft unique film experiences. Develop creative, critical and collaborative skills through innovative production methods and prepare to stand out in the film and media industries.
Our typical offer
104 UCAS points
Bring your ideas to life
Get hands-on from day one with our industry-standard facilities – you'll use 4K cameras and have access to grip equipment, post-production suites and two fully equipped film studios.
Shape the future of film
Future-proof your career with industry-led, tech-driven filmmaking training where innovation, creative entrepreneurship and storytelling prepare you to thrive and make an impact in a rapidly evolving screen industry.
Connect through filmmaking
Find your creative voice and gain industry experience by working on live briefs and portfolio-building opportunities, learning from award-winning industry filmmakers, academics and technical staff.
About
“Filmmaking is such a creative course and provided me with opportunities for experimentation and collaboration, allowing me space to create my own aesthetic style as a filmmaker.”
Molly York, BA (Hons) Filmmaking graduate.
This practice-based filmmaking degree empowers you to learn by doing – working individually and collaboratively on film sets while exploring both narrative and experimental approaches. Taught by award-winning filmmakers, academics and technical experts, the course builds creative and technical confidence using industry-standard facilities, including an on-site cinema. With high student satisfaction and a focus on independent spirit and professional standards, you will find your voice and make your mark in the world of film.
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Ranked 2nd in the UK for Creative Arts and Design, according to student feedback: National Student Survey 2025
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Ranked 1st in the South West for Creative Arts and Design learning opportunities, according to student feedback: National Student Survey 2025
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Ranked 10th in Film Production and Photography Guardian University Guide 2026
This course is for you if...
you want to explore story writing, directing, cinematography, editing and sound design – and discover your creative voice
you're keen to build a professional portfolio, work on real-world projects, and get your work seen
you’re excited to learn from industry experts and use top-notch studios, kit and creative spaces
you're aiming for a career in film, television, advertising or digital media
Details
Year 1
Explore filmmaking through production and creative research. Develop high-level technical skills and contextual awareness and experiment with a variety of storytelling forms and techniques. Examine themes such as genre and narrative and engage with some of the key debates and critical perspectives within the exciting world of cinema.
Core modules
FILM414
Critical Perspectives in Filmmaking: Theory into Practice
Investigate key concepts and debates in film through lectures, screenings, and practical tasks. Experiment with narrative, genre, and representation while testing theoretical ideas in short filmmaking exercises. Strengthen your ability to analyse, reflect, and apply critical frameworks to creative practice, culminating in a portfolio of work.
FILM415
Filmmaking Foundations: Craft, Story and Process
Learn the fundamentals of filmmaking from concept to final output as you transition into higher education. Gain hands-on experience in storytelling, production planning, and the creative and technical aspects of cinematography, sound, and editing.
FILM416
Storytelling for Screen: Narrative and Creative Practice
Dive into the art of cinematic storytelling across fiction, documentary, experimental, and commercial forms. Explore how narratives are built, challenge conventions, and bring your ideas to life through practical filmmaking, finishing with a screening of your completed work.
Year 2
Expand your creative filmmaking skills through specialised technical workshops and crew-based filmmaking production. Identify interest areas and deepen your knowledge of the craft while experimenting with emerging, alternative and contemporary approaches to film and moving image practice.
Core modules
FILM517
Filmmaker: Professional Production
Create an original short film from concept to screen. Working individually or in production teams, you wiil pitch, shoot, and edit your project using professional workflows. Supported by workshops and feedback, you will refine your creative voice and produce festival-ready work for real-world audiences.
FILM518
Cinematic Crafts
Refine your technical and creative expertise by exploring specialist filmmaking crafts. Through workshops, practical exercises, and critical review, experiment with techniques and define your own creative trajectory. Build a portfolio that demonstrates technical mastery, conceptual insight, and readiness for advanced professional practice.
FILM519
Imperfect Cinema: Experimental Film and Creative Risk
Challenge mainstream cinema by embracing experimentation and the ethos of imperfect cinema. Explore alternative film histories, DIY practices, and collaborative approaches while taking creative risks. Create bold, original projects supported by research and critical reflection, culminating in a public exhibition and your own Imperfect Film Manifesto.
FILM520
Professional Filmmaker
Respond to a live brief inspired by UN Sustainable Development Goals and tackle real-world challenges through filmmaking. Work collaboratively across disciplines, develop concepts and pitches, and produce creative projects that engage with global issues. Strengthen professional skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and industry-standard production processes.
Final year
Prepare for major final productions through research and experimentation with techniques and processes, and work on a number of short film projects to support your evolving portfolio.
Core modules
ADA601
Research Project
Examine how research underpins creativity and innovation in art and design. Explore key methodologies for creative inquiry, while developing critical thinking, analytical skills, and original exploration. Build confidence in forming research questions, investigating ideas, and articulating findings with clarity and depth.
FILM616
Film Production: Major Project and Professional Practice
Deliver a substantial film project that reflects your creative vision and professional ambitions. Work collaboratively and independently through pitching, pre-production, and production using industry-standard workflows. Strengthen technical expertise, creative leadership, and contextual understanding while producing work ready for professional audiences and festivals.
FILM617
Advanced Cinematic Practice
Expand your filmmaking expertise through studio-based workshops supported by creative theory. Experiment with advanced shooting techniques, explore multiple crew specialisms, and strengthen your technical and conceptual understanding, developing the confidence and versatility to thrive in your future film career.
FILM618
Beyond Film: Professional Engagement and Portfolio Development
Take your filmmaking beyond the classroom by collaborating with professionals to refine your portfolio and position your work within contemporary industry contexts. Gain supported networking experience, develop career strategies, and showcase your creative identity as you prepare for life after graduation.
Accredited by NAHEMI
BA (Hons) Filmmaking is accredited by the National Association for Higher Education in the Moving Image (NAHEMI).
The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.
Experience
This course taught me not just the theory and practice of film, but about who I wanted to be as a filmmaker.
Joanna
BA (Hons) Filmmaking graduate, now working at Aardman Animations.
BA (Hons) Filmmaking graduate, now working at Aardman Animations.
Learn work-ready skills sought by employers
Learn in ways that build real-world skills
We teach in small groups while supporting your personal projects throughout the degree. You will experience sessions with leading filmmakers and have the chance to present your own work in a professional cinema.
Create with specialist facilities
From green screens and broadcast studios to animation suites and darkrooms, you’ll have access to the tools you need to achieve your creative goals – working individually or in small groups from day one.
Industry links with the filmmaking community
We work closely with community-based film collectives, such as Imperfect Cinema, and have developed professional collaboration opportunities and links with the British Film Institute, Plymouth's art museum and gallery The Box, and the film and TV industry
Student success
Filmmaking students win Royal Television Society Awards
Students from the University picked up three of the main prizes at a regional event run by the Royal Television Society (RTS). Studying on the BA (Hons) Filmmaking course, the winners triumphed in ‘Factual: Short Form’, ‘Journalism’ and ‘Saving the Planet’ categories.
“These students are the future of the industry, and we are so proud of what they’ve achieved.”
Graduate success at NAHEMI student film awards
BA (Hons) Filmmaking graduate Catherine Otyehel's third-year film Picking Glue has won best film at the prestigious NAHEMI (Nation Association for Higher Education in the Moving Image) student film awards 2023, beating competition from film schools all over the country.
The short film was screened at the BFI Southbank Centre in London as part of the Eat Our Shorts Film Festival – see the full running order.
We love Plymouth, but we also love to explore
On this course, there are always opportunities to broaden your experience of filmmaking in different environments and cultures.
We're part of the ISEP international exchange programme with bespoke exchange agreements across Europe and the USA.
Meet your expert teaching staff
We’re Team Plymouth. As one of our team, we’re here to help you succeed. Our expert lecturers and your own personal tutor will be with you every step of the way.
Dr Allister Gall
Lecturer of BA (Hons) Filmmaking
Filmmaker whose work has been screened globally
Mr Mark Carey
Associate Professor in Filmmaking
An award-winning filmmaker and cinematographer
Ms Linda Ward
Lecturer in Filmmaking
Over 20 years as a broadcast professional
Keep up to date
Follow us to get a greater insight into what you might experience on the Filmmaking course at Plymouth.
Life in Plymouth
Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.
Jenna
Current student
Current student
Life in the city
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Get involved with one of our many student groups
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene
Careers
Our course will enhance your creative and critical skills and help you to define and realise your own unique career destination.
Plymouth film graduates work in a number of film, television and media industry roles, including Aardman Studios, BBC, ITV, TwoFour, JMP, feature film production (Chicken Run 2), and other pre- and post-production independent filmmaking positions.
Our students' films are screened and selected for national and international festivals, such as BFI Scene, National RTS Awards, Nahemi & Bristol Encounters, Birmingham Film Festival, Cornwall Film Festival and Festival Deux Cans.
From Plymouth to the Premier League
Studying filmmaking sparked a passion for motion design and led Molly to a career at Manchester City FC
“In my first year, I took part in many opportunities, rotating roles to understand each job and gain hands-on experience. In Year 2, we learned a new skill alongside our studies, and I chose Adobe After Effects, completing an internship at Bigwave Media in Exeter. I went on to create a film using only After Effects and continued developing my motion design skills in my final year.
“That push to try something new helped me discover a side of the industry I hadn’t considered and gave me the creative freedom to understand the full filmmaking process from pre- to post-production. After graduating, I joined JMP in Bristol as an editor, progressing to senior motion graphic designer. I now work at Manchester City Football Club as a motion graphic designer, where the variety of projects keeps me learning and growing every day.”
BSc (Hons) Filmmaking project work
The Filmmaking course has opened many doors by enabling me to show prospective employers my work portfolio developed during my studies. Since graduating I already have credits with ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5 and a number of independent film/TV companies.
James Fox, BA (Hons) Filmmaking graduate now working as a freelance videographer and filmmaker.
*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in
Full-time study
£9,790 per year
£9,790 per year
Module fees for repeated or part-time study
£815 per 10 credits
£815 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
The Government has announced that tuition fees from Academic Year 28/29 onwards will be subject to automatic annual inflationary increases, which we believe will be at a similar rate to the recent annual increases to fees, and may continue to be inflation based. The University may increase annual tuition fees in line with the Student Contract and the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government from time to time.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies and we advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£18,150 per year
£18,150 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
Additional costs
This course is delivered by the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business. Studying a course in this faculty may incur additional costs relating to placement or equipment requirements.
Fund your studies
As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Entry requirements
Our typical offer
104 UCAS points
104 UCAS points
You may be eligible for a contextual offer
A levels
104 points from minimum of two A levels.
BTEC National Extended Diploma
DMM.
BTEC National Diploma modules
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.
Access to HE Diploma
Pass an Access to Higher Education Diploma (preferably Art and Design or combined), with at least 33 credits at merit and/or distinction.
T level
Merit. Digital production, design and development preferred however other subjects may be considered.
International Baccalaureate
26 points.
Portfolio
Applicants are required to submit a portfolio, with an optional informal interview, for entry onto this course. If you have any questions, please contact our Admissions Team; drop us an email at applications@plymouth.ac.uk or alternatively give us a call on +44 1752 585858.
Other qualifications
Other combinations and non-A level qualifications also considered.
Extended entry requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
Ready to apply?
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
UCAS course code
P313
P313
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
3 years
Assessment breakdown
100% coursework
100% coursework
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Our typical offer
104 UCAS points
104 UCAS points
BSearch entry requirements for your country
5
English language requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- student visa support
- travel and arrival information
- and more.
UCAS course code
P313
P313
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
3 years
Assessment breakdown
100% coursework
100% coursework
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day
Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the University of Plymouth.
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The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.