Course summary
Find your individual style and your own distinctive voice. The course is highly practical, giving you the opportunity to learn in a unique environment and to make high quality films in our on-site studios or on location. You will also have the chance to learn from top industry professionals and to collaborate with other NFTS students, with all production costs met by the School. Collaborate with students in other specialisms as you make several films and practical projects, putting into practice the skills you learn throughout the course –making the most of having access to our purpose-built film and television studios and professional standard post-production facilities, with all production costs met by the School. The essence of the course is the practical experience of filmmaking, combined with a wide-ranging series of workshops emphasising performance, mise-en-scène and an examination of how narrative works in cinema and in television. Course Facilities We are the only UK film school with its own Industry standard film studio. You will have access to four full-scale film stages, the School's cinemas which are used for rushes and work-in-progress screenings as well as curriculum and exclusive screenings, and high-end production and post production facilities where your work will be brought to life.
Modules
This course provides two years in which directing students will be adding depth and understanding to their abilities whilst regularly producing work. This is an environment where they will be both challenged and supported by staff and fellow students. The essence of the course is the practical experience of film-making, combined with a wide-ranging series of work-shops emphasising performance, mise-en-scène and an examination of how narrative works in cinema and in television. The tutor to student ratio is high, thus allowing the teaching to be specific to the needs of the individual director. The course includes weekly sessions on film and television culture, both contemporary and historical, and opportunities to learn from the work of more established directors through masterclasses and set visits. It also involves interaction with other disciplines, ranging from visual art, literature and architecture to installation and performance art.
Assessment method
Assessment is based on a dissertation and a graduation film.
Entry requirements
Students come from a wide range of backgrounds: you may be an independent filmmaker, you might have a degree or you may have experience of working in the industry. 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. If your application is successful and you are offered a place, we will ask you to attend a 4-week Foundation Course which is run uniquely for the Fiction Directors. The Foundation course is not part of the selection process, but an integral part of your teaching which then leads into the 2-year MA course, running from January to December. The Foundation course usually happens mid-October to early November (4 weeks). Dates may vary slightly, but will be announced with your offer of place. Please allow time and allocate funds for travel and accommodation to attend the Foundation course. 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
2025 Fees will be confirmed Spring/Summer 2024
Students with EU settled / pre-settled status will be eligible for home fees subject to residency checks.
Sponsorship information
NFTS Scholarships available for UK Students.
Provider information
National Film and Television School
Beaconsfield Studios
Station Road
Beaconsfield
HP9 1LG