Overview
|
Applications for this course will open shortly. Please check back here for updates. If you have any questions, please contact our Course Enquiries Team via email, WhatsApp, or phone on 01227 928000. Our course teams will also be available to answer your questions at our upcoming open days. |
Immerse yourself in the craft of cinematic storytelling with our MA Filmmaking, a practice-based Master’s designed to equip you with the creative, technical, and professional skills to thrive in today’s screen industries.
You’ll learn from award-winning filmmakers and research-active academics, gaining hands-on experience across all stages of production, from concept development to post-production.
What you'll learn
- Master practical filmmaking techniques in directing, cinematography, sound, editing, and post-production using industry-standard tools.
- Develop your storytelling and scriptwriting skills for both narrative and documentary filmmaking.
- Collaborate with peers across creative disciplines to produce innovative, professional-quality films.
- Create your own film whilst implementing key employability skills relevant to the film industry.
- Build a strong professional portfolio and industry connections to launch your career in filmmaking.
You’ll study in a vibrant creative environment alongside students from other disciplines, fostering collaboration and innovation.
This course combines industry partnerships, including the British Film Institutre (BFI), BAFTA Albert accreditation, and Curzon Westgate Film Club, with access to professional-grade facilities and equipment such as Blackmagic Ursa Mini Pro cameras and Avid Media Composer.
Through a mix of workshops, short projects, and industry events, you’ll develop a strong portfolio that showcases your technical excellence and creative voice. You’ll also explore the ethical and creative use of AI in filmmaking, preparing you for the evolving digital landscape.
The MA Filmmaking course offers a blend of practical production skills, professional knowledge, and academic study. It is designed to help you develop the knowledge and expertise required for film production. You’ll enhance your creative and technical production abilities and take responsibility for initiating a major practical project. You’ll also build your professional skillset through a dedicated employability module.Eddie McMillan, Course Director
Why study Filmmaking at CCCU?
BAFTA Albert accreditation
Our course is accredited by the leading screen industry organisation for environmental sustainability.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate degree at 2:2 or above, or alternative qualifications and substantial relevant experience may be considered.
For more information on the IELTS (International English language Testing System) requirements for this course, please click here to visit our dedicated IELTS web page.
Module information
Core/optional modules
How you’ll learn
This course has been designed to be taught through a combination of intensive workshop sessions, online interactive and self-directed learning, and both group and individual tutorials. The programme provides focused instruction in cinematography, sound, post-production, scriptwriting, and directing using industry-standard equipment such as the Blackmagic URSA Mini Pro and Avid Media Composer.
The MA Filmmaking course is practice-based but should not be seen solely as vocational preparation. It includes an important theoretical component that complements the practical side of the programme; theoretical issues are explored through practice and in complementary modules.
Our course is unique in that it is delivered alongside multiple degree routes within the broader Creative and Cultural Industries subject area. This enables you to benefit from a multi- and interdisciplinary learning experience, meeting and collaborating with a wide range of creative professionals.
Students are expected to attend scheduled lectures/workshops of around 12 hours per week and to work outside scheduled class times to complete assessed exercises and tasks.
The course is taught by a team of experienced educators who have had professional careers in a related sector and/or are internationally recognised researchers in their field. A group of non-academic partners and advisors will also contribute to the delivery of the programme, in the form of visiting talks, debates and discussions and offering networking opportunities. These professionals have significant experience as media creators.
The MA Filmmaking course is practice-based, but it should not be seen solely as vocational preparation. It includes an important theoretical component that complements the practical side of the programme; theoretical issues are explored through practice and in complementary modules. You will learn through scheduled workshops and lectures, as well as by completing set tasks and assignments. Dedicated feedback is an essential part of your learning and development.Eddie McMillan Course Director
How you’ll be assessed
Throughout the course your knowledge and skills will be informally assessed through a variety of learning activities. You will be encouraged to engage in self-assessment and may be actively involved in peer assessment. Formally, the course is assessed is assessed through practical film assessments and reflective writing.
Your future career
Many graduates enter the film industry as trainees, gaining valuable experience and completing their technical training 'in-house'. Those already working in the sector can use this qualification to enhance their skills, build confidence, and progress within their current role or move into new opportunities.
Examples of roles that graduates could go on to pursue include:
- Post-production, including picture editing, audio, and colour grading
- Sound recording and design
- Camera operation and cinematography
- Producing
- Directing
The course focuses on developing key employability skills to help you take the next steps in the film industry. You’ll learn about the festival circuit, the wider film sector, networking, research, and how to create your own online profile. Emphasis is placed on how you can most effectively present the skills, knowledge, and understanding you’ve gained in your chosen area of filmmaking to build a strong professional identity. You’ll also be encouraged to develop your professional network and explore relevant opportunities within the film industry.Eddie McMillan Course Director
Fees
Government loans are available for some postgraduate Master’s courses. Loans are subject to both personal and course eligibility criteria.
The rules around course eligibility mean that in some cases it may depend on how you are studying (full-time or part-time) as to whether you can apply for a postgraduate loan. To check whether your course is eligible, you can email the Student Fees Team or call 01227 923 456.
Tuition Fees for 2026/27 have not yet been finalised. These course web pages will be updated with Tuition Fee information once they have been agreed.
- Read advice about funding your degree
- See information about the financial support available for postgraduate studies
- If you would like information about paying your fees, please contact accounts.receivable@canterbury.ac.uk
- For specific fee queries, please contact fees@canterbury.ac.uk
Industry links
As a student on the MA Filmmaking course, you can benefit from the following:
- Partnership with the BFI (British Film Institute) – including access to the BFI Player for all students.
- BAFTA Albert accreditation – the leading screen industry organisation for environmental sustainability.
- Curzon Canterbury Westgate Cinema – an exciting initiative and film club collaboration.
- A thriving research community – offering conferences and events featuring visiting industry professionals such as three-time Oscar winner Thelma Schoonmaker Powell.
- Industry guest speakers – including experts from NBC Universal, BBC, Halo, Envy, Molinare, ITV Studios, Netflix, and Warner Bros. Discovery, as well as freelancers specialising in key craft areas such as assistant directing, sound design, and production design.
Apply now
I would like to start
I would like to study
Duration:
1 yearLocation(s):
CanterburyPostgraduate student links
Any questions?
