Course summary
Give yourself the tools and the confidence to become a successful documentary maker. We put storytelling at the centre of the filmmaking process, while at the same time encouraging you to experiment and develop your personal voice. You'll get the best practical experience possible, making 4 films during your time on the course. You'll collaborate with students in other specialisms to make several films and participate in practical projects, developing the vital skills of both directing and collaboration, as well as learn about commissioning, and the legal and finance side of getting a film made. You'll also access vital networking opportunities as you will meet Industry professionals and attend at least one film festival. From the start to the end of the documentary filmmaking process - you'll leave fully prepared to launch yourself, and your films, into the Industry. Course Facilities Throughout the course, you will have access to Industry standard production facilities. You will be trained to use digital 4K cameras, a range of sound recording equipment and editing software.
Modules
You will direct and shoot four films during the course of the MA. The first year consists of four practical exercises, increasing in length and complexity. These focus on the techniques and approach of a specific documentary genre: observation, sound and music, character–led narrative and an enquiry. You’ll collaborate with editors, sound recordists, sound designers and composers, and are encouraged to build relationships with cinematographers and producers. You are also expected to know how to work alone. The second year includes three projects: a graduation film in which you’ll synthesise what you have discovered in the first year, and use it to challenge conventional approaches to documentary; an MA dissertation in which you reflect on a documentary topic that has intrigued you during the course; and the opportunity to develop a project to take out to the Industry. The second year also consists of a visit to a film festival, meetings with broadcasters and contact with industry professionals alongside seminars on commissioning, legal requirements, financing and distribution.
Assessment method
Assessment is based on a dissertation and a graduation film.
Entry requirements
Above all, you’ll need a strong social awareness and a keen desire to translate that awareness into stories told with a personal voice. Our students come from a wide variety of backgrounds and have usually had some previous experience of filmmaking, though this may not be at a professional level. While many applicants will have a degree from a British or overseas university, we will consider applicants who do not have a degree if they have an impressive portfolio, a creative track record or an alternative qualification. International students Visa and English language requirements If you have any questions, please email [email protected].
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Students with EU settled / pre-settled status will be eligible for home fees subject to residency checks.
There is a non-refundable £25 application fee for each MA application.
A non-refundable deposit of £500 is required against the cost of your fees on confirmation of your place.
As a part of our admissions selection process for this course, following a successful interview, applicants are required to attend a selection workshop for five days, which has a fee of £150.
All production costs are included in the course fees, including the use of School facilities and equipment.
We will do all we can to help you make the finances work to come to the NFTS, so please visit our funding guide to find out more about what support is available to you.
Sponsorship information
NFTS Scholarships available for UK Students.
Provider information
National Film and Television School
Beaconsfield Studios
Station Road
Beaconsfield
HP9 1LG