October 2019

UCAS code

PP31

Mode of Study

Full-time, Full-time sandwich with work placement

Duration

3 years full-time, 4 years sandwich with work placement

Start date

September 2023, September 2024

Accredited

Yes

Overview

Our ScreenSkills Select-accredited BA (Hons) Film Production degree will mould you into the expert filmmaker, cinematographer, editor, and special effects producer the booming film industry craves. 

Master the practical and business elements of film creation and exhibit your films at national screening events, which will turn employers’ heads your way.

Graduates have created indie films, joined Marvel, Maverick and Pinewood Studios, and worked on critically acclaimed titles Black Mirror, Wonder Woman 1984, and No Time to Die. Here’s your chance to follow in their footsteps.

Course highlights

  • Familiarise yourself with advanced professional equipment used in the industries—including Arri Alexa, Sony, and Blackmagic camera systems; Avid video editing suites; Pro Tools-equipped sound studio; Baselight colour grading system; and several flexible production spaces
  • Attract potential employers by showcasing your films at our annual screening event at London’s British Film Institute (BFI)
  • Boost your professional experience by taking an optional one-year placement—either with a company or by setting up your own
  • Bolster your practice and knowledge by attending specialist masterclasses and workshops on all areas of film production
  • Show your editing expertise to industry peers by gaining an Avid Media Composer certification
  • Enhance your employability by accessing training events, bursaries, and scholarships—one of many advantages of a ScreenSkills Select accreditation

16th

for film production and photography in the UK

(Guardian University Guide, 2023)

95%

of graduates in work or further study 15 months after this course

(HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey 2018/2019)

Accreditation

ScreenSkills Select

This course is accredited by ScreenSkills Select, a professional body for the screen industry.

All ScreenSkills Select-accredited courses must show the highest level of quality and relevance to the industry. This ensures you'll learn the knowledge and skills relevant to your future career and assures potential employers that your degree is relevant to the screen industry. This accreditation also gives you access to exclusive benefits such as employability training events, scholarships and bursaries.

Avid Media Composer

Avid Media Composer is the film and television industry's leading editing software application. The University of Portsmouth is an Avid Learning Partner, which gives you access to the official Avid Media Composer curriculum and Certification exams. Our industry-recognised accreditations are a key factor in helping our graduates into relevant employment.

You’ll be supported by academic and technical staff who are accredited Avid Professional Instructors. Our first year editing module embeds the Avid Media Composer 101 and 110 Curriculum, allowing our students to complete the official accreditation from their second year.

Watch our BA (Hons) Film Production Graduate Show 2021 showreel

Class of 2021

Watch snippets of the best film projects and shorts from our 2021 final-year Film Production students.

[Grad Show 2021]

[BA FP, BA Film Production Portsmouth]

Speaker 1: Be careful on your bike ok. The roads are getting icy.

Speaker 2: Will do.

Speaker 3: You're not to paint anymore, it's doing you no good.

Speaker 4: But it helps me think.

Speaker 3: That is the very problem.

Speaker 5: Look what the cat dragged in.

Speaker 6: What cat?

Speaker 3: There's a fine line between escape and abandonment

Speaker 7: Just tell me.

Speaker 8: I'm in love with Noah.

Speaker 9: What the hell have you done?

Speaker 10: So uh, I guess you're not coming.

Speaker 11: Come on, give me one, two. Good, and again. Nice, and again.

Speaker 1: Even God has a day off every now and then. 

Speaker 12: Stay in the car.

Speaker 13: This is not funny.

Speaker 14: You really want me to stop smiling? You want me to mask my emotions, keep them bottled up inside just to make you feel better about yourself.

Speaker 13: What is your problem? We're here because of you.

Speaker 4: Does everybody only care about themselves?

Speaker 5: I know who you are.

Speaker 6: No you don't.

Speaker 15: I'm alone.

Speaker 16: No you're not.

Speaker 17: You know, I finally made it.

Speaker 18: I think we can really make something special here.

[University of Portsmouth]

Entry requirements

BA (Hons) Film Production

Typical offers

  • A levels – ABB–BBB
  • UCAS points – 120–128 points from A-levels or equivalent (calculate your UCAS points)
  • T levels – Merit
  • BTECs (Extended Diplomas) – DDM
  • International Baccalaureate – 29

You may need to have studied specific subjects – See full entry requirements and other qualifications we accept

Selection process

A relevant qualification or experience in film/video is required. Applicants without relevant qualifications may be asked to submit a digital portfolio.

For more information on how to put together a portfolio, read our Film Production creative portfolio guide.

English language requirements

  • English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 with no component score below 6.0.

See alternative English language qualifications

We also accept other standard English tests and qualifications, as long as they meet the minimum requirements of your course.

If you don't meet the English language requirements yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

Typical offers

  • A levels – ABB–BBB
  • UCAS points – 120-128 points from A-levels or equivalent A relevant qualification or experience in film/video is required Applicants without relevant qualifications will be asked to provide a portfolio to support their application (calculate your UCAS points)
  • T-levels – Merit
    A relevant qualification or experience in film/video is required.
  • BTECs (Extended Diplomas) – DDM
  • International Baccalaureate – 29–30

You may need to have studied specific subjects – find full entry requirements and other qualifications we accept at UCAS.

Selection process

A relevant qualification or experience in film/video is required. Applicants without relevant qualifications will be asked to provide a portfolio to support their application.

For more information on how to put together a portfolio, read our Film Production creative portfolio guide.

English language requirements

  • English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 with no component score below 6.0.

See alternative English language qualifications

We also accept other standard English tests and qualifications, as long as they meet the minimum requirements of your course.

If you don't meet the English language requirements yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

For student story - Student submission, check before using for print

 I've really enjoyed my journey in film production at the University of Portsmouth. Starting here in the UK has given me another angle to know this world.

Kunwen Chen, BA (Hons) Film Production 2021 graduate

Read Kunwen's story

Facilities

B Roll Day 3

Video Editing Suite

Our suite includes non-linear editing software Avid Media Composer and DaVinci Resolve, and specialist hardware for efficient film editing.

A film set with sofas and screens

Eldon TV Studios

Learn the skills you need to work in video/audio production and broadcasting and get involved in our student-led TV channel, CCI TV.

Images capturing CCIXR facility

Motion Capture Studio

Learn how to use the same professional motion capture equipment used in the VR, game design, and film industries.

Glenn Harris - CCIXR facility

Volumetric Video Studio

With our Holosys™-powered Volumetric Video Studio, you can capture stunning 3D footage of moving objects for your next XR project.

Careers and opportunities

You'll have plenty of career routes when you finish this course. Many of our graduates have found success in a variety of roles, destinations and productions – with some working on the sets of blockbuster films and award-winning TV series.

Others have also been nationally recognised in the film and TV industry. In 2020 and 2023, our student production teams won prestigious Royal Television Society (RTS) awards in the category of Best Student Comedy Drama and Entertainment.

Graduate roles

Roles our graduates have taken on include:

  • runner
  • camera assistant
  • junior/editing assistant
  • sound recordist
  • junior researcher
  • personal or production assistant
  • junior/production coordinator
  • second/third assistant director

Placement destinations

They've completed their placements either self-employed or with well-known names, including:

  • Walt Disney
  • The Farm
  • NBC Universal
  • Warner Media
  • Vivid Homes
  • Fifty Fifty Post-Production
  • University of Portsmouth

Film and TV work

Graduates have worked on commercial and indie titles such as:

  • Wonder Woman 1984
  • Rocketman
  • No Time To Die
  • The Batman
  • Bridgerton
  • Bohemian Rhapsody
  • Black Mirror  
  • Boiling Point (indie film)
  • Villain (indie film)

Featured podcast: Shifra Kirby

Alumna Shifra Kirby initially planned to work in law but changed her mind at the last minute for film production. In 2018, three months after graduating, she secured a dream role doing something completely different to what she envisaged just a few years ago. Listen to Shifra's journey to a creative career she loves.

External Audio

Inspire me to follow my creative passion - Shifra Kirby

Ongoing careers support

Get experience while you study, with support to find part-time jobs, volunteering opportunities, and work experience. You can also venture into freelancing, or set up and run your own business with help from the University Startup Team.

Towards the end of your degree and for up to five years after graduation, you’ll receive one-to-one support from our Graduate Recruitment Consultancy to help you find your perfect role.

Placement year (optional)

Want to gain some valuable industry experience and increase your employment potential when you graduate? By doing a work placement between your second and third year, you can do exactly that.

You can work for a company or organisation, or set up and run your own business – either with peers or on your own. No matter what you choose, you can get full support from our Creative Careers team.

Creative Careers

Our in-faculty Creative Careers team has extensive recruitment experience and knows the creative sector well, making it easier for students to find placements within the creative industries.

They can guide you through every step of the application process, including:

  • Searching for the ideal job through their database of vacancies
  • Giving tips on how to write an interesting CV that will catch employers' attention, no matter the role
  • Organising mock interviews, so you can hone your technique and familiarise yourself with the recruitment environment
  • Writing your startup business proposal – if you're going down the self-employment route

The team will continue to give you support throughout your placement year.

Placement roles

Former students have interned in various roles, including:

  • Video Producer
  • Editor Assistant
  • Creative Intern
  • Creative Producer
  • Communications Coordinator
  • Promotions Assistant
  • Post-Production Runner

Placement destinations

They've completed their placements either self-employed or with well-known names, including:

  • Walt Disney
  • The Farm
  • NBC Universal
  • Warner Media
  • Vivid Homes
  • Fifty Fifty Post-Production
  • University of Portsmouth
I enjoyed applying my existing skills to a role I’d never tried before because it allowed me to acquire a better insight into what the marketing industry might be like, and it even made me consider marketing in the film industry as a potential backup career choice.

Cristian Ionut Necula, BA (Hons) Film Production 2021 graduate

What you'll study

Modules

Core modules

What you'll do

You'll study fiction and non-fiction experimental films and critique production modes, structural strategies, and aesthetic approaches.

You'll develop skills in research, concept development, pre-production planning, production techniques and professional practices and work in groups to produce 2 short film.

What you'll learn

When you complete this module successfully, you'll be able to:

  • Identify, collect and deploy ideas related to storytelling modes within fiction and non-fiction experimental films
  • Plan, produce and present a group short film in response to a brief
  • Manage a film production, working effectively as a team
  • Assess, reflect and discuss your own production process and artefacts
  • Recognise, apply and review skills to a professional industry standard
  • Analyse the construction of film

What you'll learn

When you complete this module successfully, you'll be able to:

  • Demonstrate the ability to create work using digital filming technology, including professional cameras, location sound recorders, microphones and digital editing software
  • Recognise and utilise the film grammar of audio-visual communication
  • Demonstrate skills in single-camera production techniques and processes
  • Demonstrate the ability to project manage film productions and communicate ideas effectively
  • Recognise, define and explore the roles, responsibilities and procedures involved in effective single-camera production team-working
  • Identify and implement health and safety, welfare and compliance issues associated with film production practice

What you'll do

On this module, you'll explore the above key questions about cinema by examining a selection of historical and contemporary examples of cinematic approaches from mainstream Hollywood, independent, European and transnational cinema.

What you'll learn

When you complete this module successfully, you'll be able to:

  • Identify and describe key theoretical concepts around film language, representation and spectatorship
  • Debate major debates in film practice and theory around issues of representation, through the discussion of specific films and their academic critiques
  • Compare and contrast different cinematic approaches from a range of production contexts and identify the ways they create meaning
  • Demonstrate basic analysis skills in relation to specific examples of filmmaking.

What you'll do

 

You'll examine new technologies, considering new innovations in digital, VR and XR technologies. You'll also consider the ethical considerations facing the industry and its future, covering issues such as the industry's push towards a more inclusive and diversive production practice and the ongoing response to concerns over environmental sustainability. Finally, you'll look at how your response to these challenges helps you flourish in your career, and how you can lead the creative production industry to realise its ambitions for the future.

What you'll learn

When you successfully complete this module, you'll be able to:

  • Demonstrate an ability to outline laws, professional codes of conduct and moral philosophical positions that may relate to creative media production practices, film and TV production and broadcast/exhibition
  • Identify and demonstrate the student's own skills, interests and motivations in the context of career decision making
  • Identify the specific skills and qualities required in broad fields of creative technology industries, informed by academic and professional insight
  • Critically reflect on the technological, ethical and commercial challenges and opportunities surrounding the contemporary film and tv industries

What you'll do
The learning outcomes of this module are:
  • Differentiate between the use and application of different editing software platforms
  • Demonstrate understanding and application of basic editing skills with Avid MC
  • Interpret and apply key concepts of digital media management storage and techniques
  • Recognise the application of industry practice on any given project
  • Define the use of particular editing techniques in an artefact

Explore this module

Core modules

What you'll do

You'll study story and script development, scheduling, budgeting, health and safety, funding and the international marketplace. You'll also learn how to conceive, develop, pitch, package and produce shows across genres.

What you'll learn

When you complete this module successfully, you'll be able to:

  • Recognise and implement editorial and financial strategies for international TV and film production
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the national and international marketplace
  • Present and pitch ideas appropriate for a range of existing and emerging broadcasters and platforms, through a globally aware company or outlet for international TV/film production
  • Formulate and demonstrate awareness of international production roles and the global production marketplace
  • Demonstrate and apply an awareness of health and safety procedures and an ability to prepare and process production documents

What you'll learn
The learning outcomes of this module are:
  • Interpret, analyse and explain aesthetic, thematic, political and economic concerns of transnational films and filmmakers.
  • Apply key theoretical reading to analysis of films.
  • Critically assess how new technologies, production and exhibition contexts impact on national and transnational filmmaking.
  • Evaluate the relationship of film to wider geo-political agendas and concerns.
  • Critically understand and articulate distribution, marketing and reception of transnational work.

Optional modules

What you'll do

With the support of the Creative Careers team, you can find, apply for and complete a year of a work placement with a variety of employers - previous placements have been offered from NBC, Disney, Warner Bros. and a variety of SME's in the region.

What you'll learn

The learning outcomes of this module are:

  • Demonstrate increasing autonomy, with a reduced need for supervision and direction, within defined guidelines
  • Communicate a detailed knowledge of the contexts of business and industry specific practices relevant to their chosen field and an awareness of a variety of ideas, contexts and frameworks within their chosen area of employment or self-employment
  • Develop working professional relationships within industry/business disciplines
  • Proactively evaluate their own strengths and weaknesses, and develop their own criteria and judgement relating to their business practice, future learning and future employability goals

Explore this module

What you'll learn

The learning outcomes of this module are:

  • Demonstrate increasing autonomy, with reduced need for supervision and direction, within defined guidelines
  • Communicate a detailed knowledge of the contexts of business and industry specific practices relevant to their chosen field and an awareness of a variety of ideas, contexts and frameworks within self-employment, freelancing or business startups
  • Develop working professional relationships within industry/business disciplines
  • Proactively evaluate their own strengths and weaknesses, and develop their own criteria and judgement relating to their business practice, future learning and future employability goals

Explore this module

Assessment

On this module, you'll be assessed through a portfolio (100% of final mark).

What you'll learn

The learning outcomes of this module are:

  • Demonstrate increasing autonomy, with a reduced need for supervision and direction, within defined guidelines
  • Communicate a detailed knowledge of the contexts of business and industry specific practices relevant to their chosen field and an awareness of a variety of ideas, contexts and frameworks within self-employment, freelancing or business startups
  • Develop working professional relationships within industry/business disciplines
  • Proactively evaluate their own strengths and weaknesses, and develop their own criteria and judgement relating to their business practice, future learning and future employability goals

Explore this module

What you'll learn

When you complete this module successfully, you'll be able to:

  • Recognise and use the grammar of film language required in the practice of single-camera production and cinematic filming
  • Develop and apply advanced standard operating skills, technical competency and aesthetic judgement related to single-camera production practices and cinematographic techniques
  • Identify and assess key roles, responsibilities and procedures involved in effective TV and Film production team working
  • Identify and implement health and safety, welfare and compliance issues associated with television production practice
  • Identify and review how technical experimentation, application, creativity and aesthetics can enhance the story form, and challenge its conventions and techniques
  • Recognise and develop skills in single-camera production operating techniques and processes

What you'll do

You'll learn about the casting process and how to get the best out of actors when on set, in rehearsal and production.

What you'll learn

When you complete this module successfully, you'll be able to:

  • Demonstrate effective casting processes and protocols for direction for the screen
  • Reflect on how the rehearsal process impacts directorial process
  • Direct actors/social actors in performances for the screen
  • Apply the appropriate communication, film language and methodology of directing actors
  • Create a short filmed sequence, using appropriate directing techniques for actors and crew

What you'll do

You'll follow the typical timeline of industry programme pre-production and learn the key skills of content generation, research and storytelling, to get your ideas off the ground. You'll also explore the key elements of producing a factual programme, how the commissioning process works, how to cast the right people, how to get your idea noticed and how to tell compelling stories.

    What you'll learn

    You’ll learn the key skills of content generation, research and storytelling.

    When you complete this module successfully, you'll be able to:

    • Work as part of an editorial team
    • Develop, pitch and produce factual programming to an industry standard
    • Produce factual media that is technically proficient for broadcast using video recording tools
    • Learn to pitch confidently, and to present and defend an original idea
    • Understand how the commissioning process works, from concept to transmission
    • Understand the factual narrative and develop a topic into TV
    • Critically evaluate a range of factual media programming for audience consumption

    What you'll learn

    The learning outcomes of this module are:

    • Develop independent, analytical and creative attributes, through engaging imaginatively with new areas of investigation within and across discipline boundaries
    • Demonstrate the ability to be effective team players, able to provide leadership and to support the success of others
    • Communicate clearly and effectively, in a range of forms and to different audiences

    What you'll learn
    • Apply the practice skills and production techniques, appropriate to the client's requirements
    • Implement creativity in the client's market place
    • Develop and deliver a finished product to the client, to agreed timescales, thereby demonstrating effective Project Management
    • Summarise appropriate professional relationships and attitudes towards colleagues and client
    • Demonstrate professional Project Management in the form of Research; organisation and reflective analysis of the process

    What you'll do

    You'll cover the creative process, from pitching techniques to proposal writing, and create a short film.

    What you'll do
    The learning outcomes of this module are:
    • Develop a critical and reflective appreciation of the relationship between film and ethics, with an ability and readiness to question the principles, practices and boundaries of film practice and analysis, allied to a commitment to social justice issues such as equality, respect and sustainability.
    • Engage in an interdisciplinary approach that combines a contextual analysis of film with a detailed consideration of professional practice, bringing the insights of both together to better enhance the transferable skills developed in each subject area.
    • Develop a future career strategy informed by a considered duty of care both to one's self, one's co-workers and to one's future employers, at the heart of which will be a self-critical understanding of the ethics of professional practice that can be applied across a range of different career contexts.

    What you'll do

    Study abroad placements are done in year 3 of a 4 year sandwich degree structure. Enhance your learning experience by adding a global dimension to your studies and develop knowledge and skills essential for roles in the global workforce. Participation in this module is subject to a selection process, supply and demand you'll be assessed on a pass/fail basis.

    Where activity is to be undertaken in a non-English speaking country, you'l need to evidence your language ability and plans for improving your language competency.

    What you'll learn

    When you complete this module successfully, you'll be able to:

    • Critically assess how activities relate to disciplinary knowledge and practice covered on your course within a global context
    • Manage and complete tasks in an overseas study environment relevant to your course, with an appropriate level of skill, independence and performance
    • Reflect critically on your personal development during your study abroad, identifying the transferable skills you acquired and their relevance to future study and employability
    Teaching activities

    5 hours of tutorials

    Independent study time

    We recommend you spend at least 20 hours studying independently. This is around half an hour a week over the duration of the module.

    Assessment

    On this module, you'll be assessed through:

    • a 2,000 portfolio (pass/fail, pass mark of 40)

    What you'll do

    Study abroad placements are done in year 2 of a three year degree. Enhance your learning experience by adding a global dimension to your studies and develop knowledge and skills essential for roles in the global workforce. Participation in this module is subject to a selection process, supply and demand you'll be assessed on a pass/fail basis.

    Where travelling to a non-English speaking country, you'l need to evidence your language ability and plans for improving your language competency.

    What you'll learn

    When you complete this module successfully, you'll be able to:

    • Critically assess how activities relate to disciplinary knowledge and practice covered on your course within a global context
    • Manage and complete tasks in an overseas study environment relevant to your course, with an appropriate level of skill, independence and performance
    • Reflect critically on your personal development during your study abroad, identifying the transferable skills you acquired and their relevance to future study and employability
    Teaching activities

    3 hours of tutorials

    Independent study time

    We recommend you spend at least 20 hours studying independently. This is around 1 hour a week over the duration of the module.

    Assessment

    On this module, you'll be assessed through:

    • a 2,000 portfolio (pass/fail, pass mark of 40)v

    What you'll do

    You'll enhance your learning experience by adding a global dimension to your studies.

    What you'll learn

    When you complete this module successfully, you'll be able to:

    • Manage and complete tasks in an overseas study environment relevant to your course, with an appropriate level of skill, independence and performance
    • Reflect on your personal development and how your employability prospects have been enhanced by the exchange
    Assessment

    On this module, you'll be assessed through a portfolio (100% of final mark).

    What you'll do

    You'll engage practically and creatively with sound recording and sound design for the film industry. You'll use location recording techniques, specialist sound recording equipment, and professional software packages.

    What you'll learn

    When you complete this module successfully, you'll be able to:

    • Develop and apply advanced standard operating skills, technical competency and aesthetic judgements, relating to sound design
    • Use the grammar of film languages required in the practice and art of audio acquisition and sound design
    • Identify and review how technical experimentation, application, creativity and aesthetics can enhance the story form, and challenge its conventions and techniques
    • Identify and assess key roles, responsibilities and procedures involved in effective TV and film production team working and processes

    What you'll do

    You’ll use software such as Adobe After Effects and Cinema 4D and look at 2D and 3D compositing, green screen, keying, advanced tracking and other techniques that will help you build convincing visual effect scenes and set extensions in your films. 

    Lectures cover shooting for FX, whilst workshops focus on the Post Production methods.

    What you'll learn
    • When you complete this module successfully, you’ll be able to:
    • Apply fundamental compositing skills in After Effects.
    • Develop and show an understanding of the importance of ‘shooting for FX’.
    • Utilise a range of advanced green screen keying techniques.
    • Create and manipulate elements within After Effects.
    • Demonstrate knowledge of how to use appropriate Post Production workflows for VFX delivery through the Online Editor.

    What you'll learn

    The learning outcomes of this module are:

    • Reflect on their learning and experience to date and use this as a basis to plan and organise suitable work experience(s) that will enable the development of their professional profile.
    • Propose a programme of learning that enables the development and demonstration of specified professional skills.
    • Critically evaluate their learning and experience and relate this to their future career goals.
    • Communicate the outcomes of their experience through the effective use of reflective practice.

    What you'll learn

    The learning outcomes of this module are:

    • Analyse the complexities of launching a startup business
    • Critically reflect upon the factors which contribute towards successful market research, marketing, manufacturing, and selling
    • Recognise suitability for specific roles in business and collaborative working

    What you'll do

    You'll investigate theory and practical skills to allow reflection, and experimentation with two dimensional and three-dimensional approaches, using images, theory and texts.

    What you'll learn

    When you successfully complete this module, you'll be able to: 

    • Explore theories, practices and the work of other creative disciplines, and discover links to architecture, interior spaces and/or the urban realm
    • Experiment, review, select, retrieve, evaluate and manipulate information in order to expand their understanding of architecture, interiors and/or the city
    • Utilise appropriate (visual, physical, written, oral) media to record and communicate ideas and concepts in a clear and engaging way, working individually and/or in groups

    What you'll learn

    When you complete this module successfully, you'll be able to:

    • Demonstrate the operation and use of scuba diving equipment
    • Display proficiency in basic diving safety and rescue procedures
    • Understand and apply the physical and physiological principles of diving
    • Plan, organise and conduct safe diving activities appropriate to the circumstances
    • Plan and undertake dives for producing underwater film or photography
    • Use and explain the techniques used in underwater film production and photography
    • Describe and explain the main features of HSE legislation, risk assessment, project reports and the conduct of a diving project, within the Media Approved Codes of Practice

    What you'll do

    You'll explore topics including: on-set ingest and logging, storage and media, colour monitoring, preparing for the edit, advanced editing techniques, LUTs, and creative grading and integration.

    What you'll learn

    When you complete this module successfully, you'll be able to:

    • Identify and apply industry workflows for TV and film production
    • Describe and analyse current trends in post production
    • Design an editing workflow and colour pipeline for a specific camera
    • Apply key theoretical and technical concepts through the use of relevant software
    • Evaluate aesthetic and technical decisions relating to a post-production workflow
    • Apply advanced colour correction and colour grading techniques using industry software
    Additional content
     

     

    What you'll do

    You'll explore the techniques and processes involved in the creation of written documents used to deliver Film and Broadcast TV material, focusing on the character and narrative development techniques used for International Short Film and TV Production.  You'll look at log-lining, synopsis writing, pitching, proposals, treatments, bibles, drafting screenplays and script editing.

    Teaching activities

    When you successfully complete this module, you'll be able to: 

    • Analyse the skills necessary to tell structured, original and international stories
    • Analyse the codes and conventions of a diverse array of Film and TV languages
    • Compare and implement story structures and narrative requirements of global Film and TV Production
    • Analyse target audiences and profiling projects, with regard to emerging platforms and global marketplace requirements
    • Apply the skills to draft, re-draft and develop script-based media in order to operate successfully in the Creative Industries
    • Understand script writing and appreciate what an array of acclaimed scripts consistently offer

    What you'll learn

    The learning objectives of this module are to be confirmed.

    Core modules

    What you'll do

    This final project is designed to bring together what you've learned in about script, documentary practice or narrative fiction storytelling, cinematographic craft, sound design and post-production practices.

    What you'll learn

    When you complete this module successfully, you'll be able to:

    • Manage the demands and requirements of independent short film production and distribution
    • Create and produce a professional/industry standard short film, within a small production team
    • Present ideas in a professional pitch environment for a short film production
    • Implement the ethical responsibilities of the producer related to short film production
    • Appraise research sources and critically engage with major debates within non-fiction/fiction media to evaluate your work and that of your peers with reference to these issues
    • Synthesise ideas and organise material, and present it in a professional manner, using appropriate technologies to communicate the ideas clearly

    What you'll do

    These materials will then be used as a press pack or electronic press kit (EPK), similar to those used in the industry to target film festivals.

    What you'll learn

    When you complete this module successfully, you'll be able to:

    • Critically evaluate professional practice and show the development of your group film
    • Develop, produce and promote a short film
    • Assess ethical debates and best practice within the film and TV industries
    • Produce promotional material for your own work
    • Summarise and apply self-directed learning and project/time management skills
    Additional content
     

     

    What you'll learn

    When you complete this module successfully, you'll be able to:

    • Competently understand and reflect on key skills required by industry for a specific career pathway or specialism
    • Analyse and critique specific discipline practices and procedures
    • Compare, contrast and discuss global differences and similarities relating to graduate roles film production
    • Identify and address your personal development needs
    • Deploy and integrate understanding of working with new emerging technologies and practices
    Additional content
     

     

    What you'll do

    You'll oversee and/or design and publish, a personal professional website, which features an industry-level CV, show reel and other examples of work.

    What you'll learn

    When you complete this module successfully, you'll be able to:

    • Demonstrate project management skills in the context of the work you do in the module
    • Demonstrate how to manage your workload and organise material effectively
    • Create an online platform showcasing your skills and examples of your work
    • Evaluate the quality and effectiveness of your work, with reflective reviews and evaluation
    • Document your processes for each assignment in a professional and cohesive way
    • Gather and deploy the skills necessary for continuing personal development in different media contexts and effectively communicate this via a package for self promotion
    • Apply and critically reflect on your graduate and employability skills in a professional work environment

    Optional modules

    What you'll do

    You'll create an original concept for, then write, the pilot episode of a new series. Through this, you'll learn to think independently, analytically and creatively about your own screenwriting and core screenwriting texts. 

    What you'll learn

    When you complete this module successfully, you'll be able to:

    • Demonstrate a comprehensive / detailed knowledge of screenwriting core texts, structure and global marketplace demands
    • Engage in critical debate in a professional manner and produce detailed and coherent analysis of key screenwriting material
    • Confidently apply and reflect upon their own criteria of judgement and challenge received opinion. Can seek and make use of feedback on their pitches, outlines and scripts
    • Construct a screenplay with due diligence paid to marketplace demands
    • Critically analyse and reflect on research and the associated output
    • Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of techniques/methodologies applicable to the discipline (theory or research-based)

    What you'll learn

    When you complete this module successfully, you'll be able to:

    • Manage self-led learning and formulate a coherent argument about a chosen research topic
    • Demonstrate critical understanding of film texts and their interconnection with wider cultural, social and political contexts
    • Demonstrate critical understanding of economy of production, exhibition and distribution and how it affects film texts and audience reception
    • Employ research and textual analysis skills appropriate to the current stage of your degree programme
    • Communicate ideas and arguments effectively in writing or audio-visual format
    Additional content
     

     

    Changes to course content

    We use the best and most current research and professional practice alongside feedback from our students to make sure course content is relevant to your future career or further studies.

    Therefore, some course content may change over time to reflect changes in the discipline or industry. If a module doesn't run, we'll let you know as soon as possible and help you choose an alternative module.

    I think the Film Production course was the perfect place to find out not only what I’m most passionate about, but also what I would enjoy making a living from.

    Caleb Johnston, BA (Hons) Film Production 2020 graduate

    Teaching

    Teaching methods on this course include:

    • Lectures
    • Seminars
    • Workshops

    You'll also learn by studying independently. You can borrow film production gear and use computer work stations in your own time to enhance your learning.

    You can access all teaching resources on Moodle, our virtual learning environment, from anywhere with a Web connection.

    For more about the teaching activities for specific modules, see the module list above.

    How you're assessed

    You'll be assessed through:

    • film production artefacts
    • essay and report writing
    • video essays
    • group projects and presentations
    • pitching
    • production files
    • practical assessments
    • workshops and supervised work sessions
    • masterclasses
    • tutorials
    • production meetings

    You’ll be able to test your skills and knowledge informally before you do assessments that count towards your final mark.

    You can get feedback on all practical and formal assessments so you can improve in the future.

    How you'll spend your time

    One of the main differences between school or college and university is how much control you have over your learning.

    We use a blended learning approach to teaching, which means you’ll take part in both face-to-face and online activities during your studies.  As well as attending your timetabled classes you'll study independently in your free time, supported by staff and our virtual learning environment, Moodle.

    A typical week

    We recommend you spend at least 35 hours a week studying for your degree. In your first year, you’ll be in timetabled teaching activities such as lectures, tutorials, seminars, practical classes, workshops, fieldwork and project supervision for about 12 hours a week. The rest of the time you’ll do independent study such as research, reading, coursework and project work, alone or in a group with others from your course. You'll probably do more independent study and have less scheduled teaching in years 2 and 3, but this depends on which modules you choose.

    Most timetabled teaching takes place during the day, Monday to Friday. You may occasionally need to go to University and course events in the evenings and at weekends. There’s usually no teaching on Wednesday afternoons.

    Term dates

    The academic year runs from September to June. There are breaks at Christmas and Easter.

    See term dates

    Supporting your learning

    The amount of timetabled teaching you'll get on your degree might be less than what you're used to at school or college, but you'll also get support via video, phone and face-to-face from teaching and support staff to enhance your learning experience and help you succeed. You can build your personalised network of support from the following people and services:

    Types of support

    Your personal tutor helps you make the transition to independent study and gives you academic and personal support throughout your time at university.

    You'll have regular contact with your personal tutor in learning activities or scheduled meetings. You can also make an appointment with them if you need extra support.

    In addition to the support you get from your personal tutor, you’ll also have access to a Faculty student support advisor. They can give you confidential, impartial advice on anything to do with your studies and personal wellbeing and refer you to specialist support services.

    You'll have help from a team of faculty academic skills tutors. They can help you improve and develop your academic skills and support you in any area of your study.

    They can help with:

    • improving your academic writing (for example, essays, reports, dissertations)
    • delivering presentations (including observing and filming presentations)
    • understanding and using assignment feedback
    • managing your time and workload
    • revision and exam techniques

    If you need support with software and equipment or you want to learn additional skills (including skills not covered on your course), our creative skills tutors provide free workshops, activities and one-on-one tutorials. Skills you can learn include life drawing, film camera operation and video production.

    Computing support staff are always available to give technical support in the Faculty's computer suites during normal working hours. There's also some support available from 5.00pm to midnight at busy times of the year.

    As well as support from faculty staff and your personal tutor, you can use the University’s Academic Skills Unit (ASK).

    ASK provides one-to-one support in areas such as:

    • academic writing
    • note taking
    • time management
    • critical thinking
    • presentation skills
    • referencing
    • working in groups
    • revision, memory and exam techniques

    If you have a disability or need extra support, the Additional Support and Disability Centre (ASDAC) will give you help, support and advice.

    Our online Learning Well mini-course will help you plan for managing the challenges of learning and student life, so you can fulfil your potential and have a great student experience.

    You can get personal, emotional and mental health support from our Student Wellbeing Service, in person and online. This includes 1–2–1 support as well as courses and workshops that help you better manage stress, anxiety or depression.

    If you require extra support because of a disability or additional learning need our specialist team can help you.

    They'll help you to

    • discuss and agree on reasonable adjustments
    • liaise with other University services and facilities, such as the library
    • access specialist study skills and strategies tutors, and assistive technology tutors, on a 1-to-1 basis or in groups
    • liaise with external services

    Library staff are available in person or by email, phone, or online chat to help you make the most of the University’s library resources. You can also request one-to-one appointments and get support from a librarian who specialises in your subject area.

    The library is open 24 hours a day, every day, in term time.

    If English isn't your first language, you can do one of our English language courses to improve your written and spoken English language skills before starting your degree. Once you're here, you can take part in our free In-Sessional English (ISE) programme to improve your English further.

    Course costs and funding

    Tuition fees

    2023 start

    • UK/Channel Islands and Isle of Man students – £9,250 a year (may be subject to annual increase)
    • EU students – £9,250 a year, including our Transition Scholarship (may be subject to annual increase)
    • International students – £17,900 a year (subject to annual increase)

    2024 start

    • UK/Channel Islands and Isle of Man students – £9,250 a year (may be subject to annual increase)
    • EU students – £9,250 a year, including our Transition Scholarship (may be subject to annual increase)
    • International students – £18,800 a year (subject to annual increase)

    Funding your studies

    Find out how to fund your studies, including the scholarships and bursaries you could get. You can also find more about tuition fees and living costs, including what your tuition fees cover.

    Applying from outside the UK? Find out about funding options for international students.

    Tuition fees terms and conditions

    Additional course costs

    These course-related costs aren’t included in the tuition fees. So you’ll need to budget for them when you plan your spending.

    Additional costs

    Our accommodation section show your accommodation options and highlight how much it costs to live in Portsmouth.

    You’ll study up to 6 modules a year. You may have to read several recommended books or textbooks for each module.

    You can borrow most of these from the Library. If you buy these, they may cost up to £60 each.

    We recommend that you budget £75 a year for photocopying, memory sticks, DVDs and CDs, printing charges, binding and specialist printing.

     

    If your final year includes a major project, there could be cost for transport or accommodation related to your research activities. The amount will depend on the project you choose.

    You may need to spend £50 to £100 each year on a variety of materials, such as DVDs or camera cards, and a small hard drive to back up media.

    We recommended you get the most recent version of Avid accreditation text, which costs around £50–£80.

    The Underwater Filming and Media module is available if you haven’t dived before. It includes a PADI Open Water course combined with the Underwater Filming and Media course. It costs around £850.

    The Underwater Filming and Media B module is available if you already hold a PADI Open Water certificate (or equivalent). It includes a further diving course (e.g. PADI Advanced Open Water), combined with the Underwater Filming and Media Course, and costs around £700 to cover tuition, transport and diving costs.

    During your placement year or study abroad year, you’ll be eligible for a discounted rate on your tuition fees. Currently, this discount amounts to 90% of the year’s fees.

    Tuition fees for that year are:

    • UK/Channel Islands and Isle of Man students – £925 a year (may be subject to annual increase)
    • EU students – £925 a year, including Transition Scholarship (may be subject to annual increase)
    • International students – £1,800 a year (subject to annual increase)

    The costs associated with your specific destination will be discussed during your second year, as well as possible sources of additional funding.

    Apply

    How to apply

    Still looking to start a course this Autumn? Click here to discover your options

    Read to apply? Apply online here or call +44 (0)23 9284 8074

    Applying for Year 2 or 3

    If you've already completed part of this course with us or another university and would like to apply for the second or third year, use our online application form

    To start this course in 2024, apply through UCAS. You'll need:

    • the UCAS course code – PP31
    • our institution code – P80

    If you'd prefer to apply directly, use our online application form.

    You can also sign up to an Open Day to:

    • Tour our campus, facilities and halls of residence
    • Speak with lecturers and chat with our students 
    • Get information about where to live, how to fund your studies and which clubs and societies to join

    If you're new to the application process, read our guide on applying for an undergraduate course.

    Applying from outside the UK

    As an international student you'll apply using the same process as UK students, but you’ll need to consider a few extra things. 

    You can get an agent to help with your application. Check your country page for details of agents in your region.

    Find out what additional information you need in our international students section

    If you don't meet the English language requirements for this course yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

    Admissions terms and conditions

    When you accept an offer to study at the University of Portsmouth, you also agree to abide by our Student Contract (which includes the University's relevant policies, rules and regulations). You should read and consider these before you apply.