MA Film Production

Program Overview

The MA Film Production program at the University of Hertfordshire equips students with advanced skills in film production, particularly in directing, producing, cinematography, sound, and post-production. Through a blend of theoretical and practical learning, students gain in-depth knowledge of industry practices and develop transferable skills for a range of careers in the film industry. The program emphasizes sustainability through BAFTA albert accreditation and provides access to industry-standard facilities and award-winning faculty.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

MA Film Production

at the University of Hertfordshire is designed for students seeking to elevate their skills in fiction and factual film production, particularly in directing, producing, cinematography, sound, and post-production.

Objectives:

• Initiate, develop, and realize original and advanced-level work in film production.
• Gain in-depth knowledge of key production processes and industry practices.
• Understand the structure, operation, global scope, regulations, and audiences of the film industry.
• Develop transferable and entrepreneurial skills to respond to current and future career challenges.
• Understand sustainability within the film industry and its impact on the climate through BAFTA albert accredited training.

Description:

This program offers a unique blend of theoretical and practical learning, featuring:

• Practice-based workshops: Work directly with professional actors and gain hands-on experience in various aspects of film production.
• Industry-standard facilities: Utilize advanced editing software, industry-grade equipment, and the university's own oral history archive.
• BAFTA albert accreditation: Learn about sustainable filmmaking practices and gain valuable industry certification.
• Award-winning student work: Benefit from a program that consistently produces recognized and acclaimed films.

Outline:

Program Content:

The program covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Screenwriting and film production techniques
• Investigative Minds: Culture, Industry, Research
• Finding the Story: Major Project Development and Planning
• Major Project in Film Production (Fiction or Documentary)

Structure:

• Full-time, 1-year program starting in September.
• Delivered over two days a week (Tuesdays and Wednesdays).
• Mix of lectures, practice-based workshops, seminars, tutorials, and independent study.
• Some elements delivered remotely for flexibility.

Modules:

• Screenwriting and Film Production Techniques (60 credits): Explores scriptwriting, storytelling, translating scripts to film, working with actors and directors, and environmental considerations in film production.
• Investigative Minds: Culture, Industry, Research (30 credits): Develops research skills in academic and industry contexts, covering research methodologies and contextual analysis.
• Finding the Story: Major Project Development and Planning (30 credits): Prepares students for their Major Project by focusing on planning, budgeting, scheduling, casting, directing, marketing, and sales.
• Major Project in Film Production (60 credits): Undertake a major film production project in fiction or documentary filmmaking, demonstrating advanced skills and knowledge.

Assessment:

• 100% coursework assessment.
• Includes presentations, written work, group work, and practice-based projects.
• Assessment criteria aligned with learning outcomes and industry standards.

Teaching:

• Led by experienced and accomplished faculty, including award-winning lecturer Howard Berry.
• Emphasis on practical learning and industry engagement.
• Regular access to professional actors and industry professionals.
• Individual and group feedback to support student development.

Careers:

Graduates are equipped for careers in:

• Film production (directing, producing, cinematography, sound, editing)
• Screenwriting
• Marketing and distribution
• Script doctoring
• Social media and online media creation
• Academic writing and further study

Career opportunities:

• Runners in the assistant director department
• Screenwriters
• Post-production runners
• Assistant editors
• Assistant producers

Other:

• Duration: 1 year full-time
• Location: University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield
• Start Date: September
• Fees: £9,450 (UK students), £16,450 (EU/International students)
• Funding: Cynthia Dickinson Trust awards available

Additional notes:

• The program actively encourages creativity, innovation, and individual expression.
• Students receive support through a dedicated personal tutor and university support services.
• The program is designed to be flexible, allowing for part-time study and work experience opportunities.

UK Students Full time £9450 for the 2024/2025 academic year EU Students Full time £16450 for the 2024/2025 academic year International Students Full time £16450 for the 2024/2025 academic year