MA Media Production (Film and Television)

Degree Overview:

The MA Media Production (Film and Television) program provides students with the necessary skills, knowledge, experience, and confidence to successfully enter the film, television, and media industries. It aims to equip students for various professional roles within these fields.

Objectives:

Develop students' practical production skills in key areas like screenwriting, camera operation, sound recording, editing, lighting, color grading, producing, and directing.
Foster students' creativity and personal fulfillment.
Provide opportunities to work on high-quality media content through industry-standard equipment and software.
Prepare students for a successful career in the competitive media landscape.

Program Description:

The MA Media Production curriculum comprises four core practical modules, aligning with the ScreenSkills Select accreditation. It emphasizes hands-on learning through industry-standard equipment and software, including specialized cameras, sound recording equipment, movement rigs, and professional editing packages like Avid Media Composer. Students collaborate on group projects and receive support through workshops, studio sessions, tutorials, and masterclasses led by industry professionals. This comprehensive approach aims to refine technical skills, foster creative confidence, and cultivate strong communication skills.

Outline:

Content:

The program focuses on developing advanced practical skills in various media production areas, including:

Screenwriting:
Camera Operation:
Cinematic Techniques
Moving Camera Stabilization
Steadicam Operation
Sound Recording:
Location Sound Recording
Studio Sound Recording
Sound Design
Editing:
Narrative Editing
Documentary Editing
Non-Linear Editing Software
Lighting:
Three-Point Lighting
High-Key Lighting
Low-Key Lighting
Practical Lighting Techniques
Color Grading:
Color Correction
Color Enhancement
Color Matching
Producing:
Budgeting
Scheduling
Location Management
Talent Management
Directing:
Script Analysis
Actor Direction
Scene Blocking
Directing for Different Media

Structure:

The MA Media Production program is designed to be completed within one year of full-time study. The program consists of four core modules:

Craft Skills (60 credits):
Focuses on developing foundational skills across all key production areas through hands-on projects.
Mini Project (30 credits):
Students work in teams to conceive, plan, and execute a focused media project, applying the skills acquired in Craft Skills.
Production Management and Online Content Creation (30 credits):
Explores the role of production manager and its associated tasks.
Examines the evolution of online content creation and its impact on media production.
Major Practical Media Project (60 credits):
Capstone project where students independently develop and realize a significant media work, either fictional, factual, or a blend of both.
Encourages exploring multi-platform elements within the same project.
Students further refine their skills and apply them to produce a professional-level project.

Course Schedule:

The MA Media Production course schedule is designed to provide a balance between theoretical understanding and practical application. Students typically attend lectures, workshops, and tutorials in the mornings, followed by dedicated project work time in the afternoons. The schedule is subject to change and will be confirmed at the start of the academic year.

Individual Modules:

Craft Skills (60 credits):

This module provides an in-depth exploration of key film and television production skills: camera operation, lighting, sound, editing, color grading, and scriptwriting. Students work in small production groups to create four assignments encompassing concept, storyboards, script, sound design, and shooting schedule. They book production and post-production facilities to execute their projects.

Mini Project (30 credits):

Students collaborate in teams to develop, plan, and complete a focused media project, applying the knowledge and skills learned in the Craft Skills module. They attend production progress meetings and workshops to refine their project concept and schedule. Booking production and post-production facilities is part of this module.

Production Management and Online Content Creation (30 credits):

This module consists of two sections: Production Management and Online Content Creation. The production management segment enhances understanding and skills within the role of production manager. The online content creation segment explores how digital convergence transformed content consumption and production.

Major Practical Media Project (60 credits):

The concluding module of the program, where students independently produce a significant media work of their choice, either fictional, factual, or a blend of both. They are encouraged to explore multi-platform elements within their project and further refine their technical, creative, and critical thinking skills. They develop a commercially-focused concept and production file encompassing marketing and distribution strategies.

Assessment:

The MA Media Production program employs a balanced assessment approach, evaluating both practical work and theoretical understanding.

Assessment methods:

Practical work:
Assignments
Projects
Portfolios
Presentations
Written work:
Reports
Essays
Reflective journals

Assessment criteria:

Technical proficiency:
Demonstrating mastery of relevant software and equipment.
Executing professional-quality production techniques.
Creativity and originality:
Developing unique and engaging concepts.
Demonstrating personal vision and artistic expression.
Critical thinking:
Analyzing and reflecting on industry trends and practices.
Effectively communicating ideas and insights.
Collaboration:
Working productively within teams to achieve common goals.
Effectively communicating and managing group dynamics.
Commercial awareness:
Understanding industry standards and audience expectations.
Developing projects with market viability and potential.

Teaching methods:

Lectures:
Providing theoretical frameworks and industry insights.
Workshops:
Hands-on skill development and practical exercises.
Tutorials:
Individual feedback and guidance on project work.
Masterclasses:
Learning from industry professionals and guest speakers.
Independent study:
Research, project development, and self-directed learning.

Faculty:

The MA Media Production program is delivered by a team of experienced and passionate media professionals with extensive industry experience and academic qualifications. The faculty includes:

Gary Stubbs: Programme Leader, with expertise in film and television production.
Ian McPake: Senior Lecturer, specializing in broadcast and digital media.
Jo McCullock: Senior Lecturer, focusing on media production and digital film.

Unique approaches:

Industry-standard equipment:
Access to state-of-the-art equipment and software used in professional media production, enhancing learning and industry readiness.
Guest lectures and masterclasses:
Benefit from the insights and experiences of industry professionals and leading figures in the media landscape.
Real-world projects:
Gain valuable experience by working on real-world projects with industry stakeholders.
Studio and facilities access:
Utilize dedicated studios, editing suites, and media hubs to develop practical skills and produce high-quality work.

Career paths:

Graduates of the MA Media Production program are well-prepared for careers in various media industries, including:

Film:
Director
Producer
Cinematographer
Editor
Television:
Director
Producer
Camera Operator
Editor
Media:
Videographer
Content Creator
Social Media Manager
Freelance:
Many graduates choose to pursue freelance careers, offering their production skills and expertise to various clients and projects.

Career opportunities:

The MA Media Production program provides graduates with a strong foundation and the necessary skills to pursue successful careers in the ever-evolving media landscape. Graduates have secured roles in various organizations:

Media companies:
BBC
ITV
Sky
Independent production companies:
Film production companies
Television production companies
Digital media agencies
Freelance work:
Many graduates find success as freelance filmmakers, editors, videographers, and content creators.

Career outcomes:

Graduates of the MA Media Production program have demonstrated strong employment outcomes, with many securing positions in leading media organizations and thriving as freelance professionals. The program equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to achieve their career aspirations in the dynamic world of media production.

Other:

Entry Requirements:
Applicants are typically required to hold an honors degree in a related discipline.
A portfolio demonstrating previous creative work is also required.
Applicants whose first language is not English must meet the University's English language requirements.
Fees:
The tuition fees for the 2023/24 academic year are £7,500 for UK/EU students and £15,000 for international students.
Scholarships:
The University offers several scholarships and bursaries to support students, including the BAFTA scholarship.
Student Support:
The University provides dedicated student support services, including academic guidance, career advice, and well-being support.

2023/24 fees: £7,500 if you're from the UK/Europe £15,000 if you're an international student 2024/25 fees: £8,000 if you're from the UK/Europe £16,500 if you're an international student

European Union (EU), EEA (European Economic Area), and Swiss nationals who don't qualify for the EU Settlement Scheme are classed as international, however, for 23/24 and 24/25 admission, you'll receive a European student fee scholarship and will pay the home tuition fee rate for the duration of your studies.

MA Media Production (Film and TV)

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