
Overview
During the Film Directing programme at The University of Edinburgh , you will make a creative documentary or non-fiction film that defies genre definition and pushes the boundaries of narrative, using limitations in a creative way. You will develop these through group seminars and tutorials.
You will work in an integrated framework that helps you question the form of your film and enables you to find the right language for your storytelling.
We encourage ways of working that foster the exchange of ideas, with inspiration from international film making practice through:
- the Scottish Documentary Institute (SDI)
- support from our team of documentary practitioners.
Our tutors are top professionals currently working in the industry as:
- directors
- producers
- editors
- sound designers
- cinematographers
We work closely with the Scottish Documentary Institute (SDI), the University’s internationally-acclaimed research centre in documentary film making. Our experience in the industry encourages us to adapt our use of technologies to the current situation, using best industry practice and safe guidelines for filming.
Graduate films do well internationally, regularly winning BAFTAs, RTS Awards and awards at international festivals. Our students and graduates have also received an Oscar nomination and an Oscar shortlist.
Career opportunities
Our students go on to a wide range of roles, including:
- producer
- director
- writer
- production or location manager
- researcher
- editor
- assistant director
- cinematographer
- journalist
Graduates have found work directing for the BBC and making work internationally for top broadcasters and film funds.
Related fields include:
- advertising
- community films
- academia
- film development agencies
Accreditation
MA/MFA Film Directing has been awarded the Creative Skillset Tick, the industry kitemark of quality, following a rigorous assessment process by experts working in the Creative Industries. The Creative Skillset Tick is awarded to practice-based courses which best prepare students for a career in the industry.
Get more details
Visit official programme websiteProgramme Structure
This programme is project-led and delivered through:
- seminars
- individual tutorials
- lectures
It integrates practical advice on filming with a contextual awareness of contemporary film practice.
Your work is initially organised around micro-films that enhance your awareness of film language and your technical skills. At the same time you will research and develop an idea which you will film in the second semester, using whatever means are available to you.
You will prepare and shoot your graduate film, backed up by camera, sound and edit workshops - alongside project support from a tutor - before it is edited and finished with input from group crits and tutorials.
Check out the full curriculum
Visit official programme websiteKey information
Duration
- Full-time
- 12 months
Start dates & application deadlines
- Starting
- Apply before
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- There are four rounds of admission.
Language
Credits
Delivered
Disciplines
Visual Arts Film, Photography & Media View 587 other Masters in Visual Arts in United KingdomExplore more key information
Visit official programme websiteAcademic requirements
English requirements
Other requirements
General requirements
Normally a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in a relevant subject area. You should have technical skills in filmmaking and experience in directing.
You must submit a portfolio as part of your application.
Your portfolio should:
include a link to one finished film, which can be any form but must be subtitled in English
demonstrate technical skills in filmmaking
demonstrate experience in directing
Your portfolio should not:
include more than one film
be a showreel
If your submitted film is fiction you must include in your personal statement why you wish to make documentary films.
If you do not meet the academic entry requirements, we may still consider your application.
Make sure you meet all requirements
Visit official programme websiteTuition Fee
-
International
26300 GBP/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 26300 GBP for the full programme during 12 months. -
National
12500 GBP/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 12500 GBP for the full programme during 12 months.
Living costs for Edinburgh
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Funding
Studyportals Tip: Students can search online for independent or external scholarships that can help fund their studies. Check the scholarships to see whether you are eligible to apply. Many scholarships are either merit-based or needs-based.