BA (Hons) Film and Television Production with a Placement Year
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Arts
- UCAS Course Code
- W6PP
- Typical Offer
- BBB
- Contextual Offer
- BCC
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2024
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Why you should choose us
Course Overview
On this course, you’ll make film and television! You’ll explore the interplay between the history and theory of film and television with the practice of production. UEA has a long-established record of excellence in combining the creative arts with critical thinking and this course extends that expertise to the mediums of film and television.
You’ll develop your creative vision in workshops, hone your practical production skills in our state-of-the-art facilities as our TV Studio and Media Suite, and engage with the current academic debates in the discipline while learning key critical and theoretical approaches to the subject in your seminars.
This version of the course also gives you the opportunity to enormously enhance your employability by spending your third year in a work placement.
Creative careers in the film and television industry depend on the ability to devise, develop, and execute a coherent vision. This course will therefore develop your ability to tell a story using a range of technologies. Our teaching will focus on the writing, directing, and editing decisions that happen behind the scenes, and it will provide crucial grounding in film and television history and theory. At the same time, we will develop the skills needed for success in the film and television industry. We will provide the training, equipment, and technical support you need while also cultivating the team-work necessary to any large-scale creative venture.
With an emphasis on Film and TV production, this course develops your creative work through the exploration of critical studies in film and television history and theory. You’ll produce your own film and television content and will gain experience of writing for different media. At the same time, you’ll study the broader contexts of film and television. The work might include directing for the screen, single-camera video and multi-camera television, and screenwriting. Later in your studies, you’ll have the opportunity to specialise in such topics as adaptation, devised filmmaking, directing and working with actors, and you may wish to pursue an independent media practice project. You will also be able to take optional modules.
You’ll also spend 9-12 months of your third year in a placement, gaining invaluable working experience and employability skills in a relevant area of your choice.
Placement Year and Study Abroad
Want to graduate with professional experience? On this course, you will normally spend 9-12 months of your third year* in a placement, gaining invaluable work experience and employability skills in a relevant area of your choice. You will be expected to seek your own work placement and will be supported in doing so by UEA’s Career Central Service and your School. Support for you to find your placement will start early in the first year and will be tailored to the particular needs you will have at various stages of the process.
The field in which you will do your placement will depend on your own interests, and some of the preparatory workshops will help you have a clearer idea of what these are, what your values are, and which career they may lead to. Film and Television Production graduates go into a wide range of sectors, and so placements can be done in fields such as heritage, business, the public sector, creative industries and many more. We will, however, require that the tasks you will conduct as part of your placement meet the required learning outcomes and are complex enough to help you develop a range of skills that you will be able to translate and use during the final year of your degree and your post-graduation career.
*Placements may be shorter on some occasions, or take place during different years of the degree, but this has to be agreed by the Placement Director and Learning and Teaching Services.
Have a business idea? If you have an idea you think would make a great business, you may be able to turn your Placement Year into a ‘Year in Enterprise’*. Your idea (business plan, budget etc.), motivation and academic record would have to be assessed by our team. Should you be given the go-ahead, you could use the year to start your businesses in a structured and supportive environment, accessing numerous training courses and extensive mentoring.
*Note that if you’re studying with us on a Student Visa, you can’t currently undertake a Year in Enterprise due to Visa rules.
Study and Modules
Structure
In your first year, you’ll be introduced to a range of filmmaking skills, from scriptwriting and dramaturgy to direction and cinematography, as well as the basics of both live and recorded TV studio production. These modules will make extensive use of the university’s state of the art facilities. You’ll learn how to structure and manage a creative project and be introduced to the major debates in film and television studies. You’ll develop the key skills needed to analyse these media using contemporary and historical examples.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
With a creative-critical focus, this degree provides regular access to UEA’s Television Studio and Media Suite as well as experiencing the more traditional lectures and seminars. Our facilities contain a wide variety of cutting-edge media technologies (editing suites, cameras and sound equipment, sound studio and digitisation suite) and you’ll have the opportunity to be fully trained to use all of these. You will acquire practical skills and deepen your understanding of how the film and television content you are studying is produced.
You’ll acquire vital skills needed for independent learning throughout your course and have access to dedicated sessions designed to help you make the most of UEA’s outstanding library facilities. Through these sessions and your academic modules, you will gain the vital research skills of uncovering resources and critically assessing sources. As you progress through your degree, you’ll develop as a self-motivated researcher and independent creative thinker.
The first year features a suite of modules chosen to provide the skills necessary to explore the areas that most interest you. Hands-on experience will come in the television studio and single-camera video production, as well as writing for a variety of media. Critical modules include fundamentals in looking at film and television, an introduction to the film and television industry, and a first chance to explore creative-critical filmmaking.
Assessment
You’ll be assessed via both individual assignments and group projects. Your production modules will have an emphasis on creative practice assignments, and you’ll hone your skills of critical analysis in your modules on the history and theory of film and television. You’ll have the option in some theoretical modules to be assessed through creative practice: you might be required to produce a script of your own to explore questions of film history. All your assessments will help strengthen your creative and critical thinking and give you skills that are attractive to future employers.
First year assessments will focus on basic skills and often feature group work.
Structure
In your second year, you’ll be introduced to the business side of film and television production, with a particular emphasis on the difference between big studio led and independently produced films. You will also get to choose your specialisation. You can opt to delve further to film or television history and theory (including analysing audience behaviours) as well as take modules that may include scriptwriting, directing and documentary filmmaking. This year also has the option of a placement module.
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 40, Max Credits: 80)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 60)Optional D Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
The second year will feature an array of optional modules that allow every student to pursue their own path. Modules in directing, cinematography, working with actors, documentary, screenwriting, and story development will offer you a chance to build your own personal filmmaking identity.
Assessment
Second year assessments will grow in length and complexity, and you’ll produce your own work more often.
Structure
Your third year will be spent on your placement, providing you with the opportunity to experience the world of work while applying some of the skills and knowledge you’ve developed during your first two years of study.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
You’ll spend your third year on a placement. You will be responsible for securing the placement, supported by UEA’s well-established connections throughout the UK and beyond. During your placement, you’ll be supported by a placement mentor, who will regularly monitor and review your progress with you, and you’ll have access to remote support from UEA, too, to make sure everything is going smoothly and that you’re getting the most of your experience.
Assessment
You will be asked to reflect on your placement by, for instance, offering a self-appraisal of what you have learnt and demonstrating your broader commercial awareness of your placement’s sector.
Structure
In your final year, you’ll draw together the creative and critical pathways of your degree, producing an independent creative project which you’ll then analyse and discuss in an accompanying research-based essay. Alongside this dissertation, you can choose modules that further hone your skills in script and screenplay writing (both original and adapted) as well as deepen your knowledge of film history and genre.
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 60, Max Credits: 90)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 30, Max Credits: 60)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
The final year offers more options and the chance to do a creative dissertation – your own creative dissertation. The dissertation will be your chance to write, direct or produce a creative critical project. Some universities relegate students to a crew position, but at UEA, this is your project.
Assessment
The final year assessments will place more emphasis on your individual efforts, culminating in a creative-critical dissertation.
Entry Requirements
- A Levels
- BBB. If you are taking an EPQ and three A-levels, we may offer you a one grade reduction on our advertised typical offer alongside an A in the EPQ.
- T Levels
- Obtain an overall Pass including a B in the core of the T Level and a Merit in the Occupational Specialism. All subjects acceptable.
- BTEC
- Extended Diploma: DDM excluding BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration. See below for accepted subjects and combinations.
- Contextual Offer
A Level – BCC
BTEC L3 Extended Diploma – DMM
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Scottish Highers
- AABBB.
- Scottish Advanced Highers
- BBB.
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- 2 subjects at H2, 4 subjects at H3.
- Access to HE Diploma
- Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Merit in 45 credits at Level 3
- International Baccalaureate
- 31 points.
- GCSE
You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
- IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
- Interviews
Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Hub. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required, the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time.
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Intakes
This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year.
Additional Information or Requirements
Extended Diploma: DDM.
Diploma: DD plus grade B at A-level.
Extended Certificate: D plus BB at A-level.
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as BA Film and Television Studies with a Foundation Year.
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
We welcome and value a wide range of alternative qualifications. If you have a qualification which is not listed here, or are taking a combination of qualifications, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.
International Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.
INTO University of East Anglia
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree:
International Foundation in Business Economics Society and Culture
International Foundation in Humanities and Law
Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of other course-related costs.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
You’ll graduate with the skills to work in the film and television and media industries, both in the UK and elsewhere in the world. You will be prepared for roles in production, press and publicity, publishing (newspapers, books, and magazines), cultural heritage and archives, social media, and arts festivals. Alternatively, you’ll be able to continue your academic passion with postgraduate study at UEA.
As well as your subject-specific knowledge and skills, you will graduate with many transferable skills including high-level communication skills, team working, and self-management, all of which open a wide variety of careers. At our annual event, ‘Working with Words’, you can meet and hear from a wide variety of successful UEA alumni from across the creative industries.
Careers
A degree at UEA will prepare you for a wide variety of careers. We've been ranked 1st for Job Prospects by StudentCrowd in 2022.
Examples of careers you could enter include:
- Film and TV production
- Media and game production
- Event management
- Marketing and publicity
- Journalism
- Publishing
Discover more on our Careers webpages.