COURSE CURRICULUM

The MA Filmmaking programme combines creative experimentation, advanced production practice, and research-informed exploration to help students develop a distinctive cinematic voice within contemporary moving-image culture. The Film Experiments module introduces students to a wide range of theoretical and practical approaches to filmmaking through the creation of experimental film projects. Drawing inspiration from debates in film, literature, and art, students explore concepts such as film space and time, perspective, defamiliarisation, concept film, and expanded cinema. Through seminars, tutorials, screenings, and practical workshops, they experiment with both established and emerging technologies while developing short films and moving-image artworks that challenge conventional forms of storytelling and visual communication. This module encourages creative risk-taking, critical reflection, and the exploration of innovative cinematic techniques. The Film Project module forms the core of the programme and provides students with the opportunity to undertake a substantial individual project, resulting in the production of an original film or moving-image installation for public screening or exhibition at the end-of-year festival. Supported by academic staff, guest lecturers, workshops, and peer collaboration, students can specialise in areas such as directing, cinematography, screenwriting, sound design, artist film, or video practice. The module emphasises independent research, experimentation, creative leadership, and collaborative working, while helping students refine their professional practice and technical expertise. The end-of-year festival serves as an important platform for showcasing work, building professional networks, and engaging with wider audiences and creative communities. The Culture and Collaboration module broadens students’ understanding of the cultural, social, and intellectual contexts that shape contemporary creative practice. Working alongside postgraduate students from across the School of Art & Design, students participate in interdisciplinary projects centred on themes relevant to current debates in art and design, contributing to a collective festival of ideas while developing research, critical thinking, communication, and presentation skills. Optional modules such as Professional Futures and Advancing Research Design: Maximising Your Methods provide additional opportunities for career development and advanced research training. Overall, the programme prepares graduates for careers in independent filmmaking, experimental cinema, moving-image arts, creative media production, and further research by combining artistic innovation, technical development, and critical inquiry.