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Undergraduate Course

Film and Television Production BA (Hons)

Learn to create films and TV programmes that cut through the noise. Master production techniques and start your career in film and TV.

Media production lecturer and students using the equipment

This course will give you the knowledge and creative technical skills needed to create engaging visual stories for film and television drama, documentary, and live TV production. Using our specialist film and television production equipment, including TV studios, HD cameras, lighting and a range of film and TV location equipment, we will support you to develop your creative film and TV-making abilities.

100% Media Production and Journalism students responded with a 100% positivity score for how good teaching staff are at explaining things. (National Student Survey 2024)

96% Media Production and Journalism students responded with a 96% positivity score for how easy it was to contact teaching staff when they needed them. (National Student Survey 2024)

York campus

  • UCAS code – P3Q4
  • Duration – 3 years full time, 6 years part time
  • Start date – September 2025, September 2026
  • School – School of the Arts

Minimum entry requirements

104 UCAS Tariff points

3 GCSEs at grade C/4 (or equivalent) including English Language.

Tuition fees

UK 2025 entry £9,535 per year full time

International 2025 entry £12,100 per year full time

Discover Media Production

Sue Greenwood, Associate Head of Production, introduces us to Media Production and Film and TV Production at York St John University.

Course overview

To make exciting Film and TV content that captivates your audience, you will need to master a range of creative and technical production processes. Throughout your time with us you will develop skills in:

  • Telling stories for drama, documentaries and TV
  • Production design
  • Production management
  • Visual post-production

You will also learn about the important key theories and debates surrounding the history, development and future of film and TV, exploring how these ideas continue to impact both the production and consumption of media. Bringing this knowledge and understanding together with your practical skills will mean you can create compelling, relevant, and innovative content for your audiences.

Throughout the course you will learn to ensure your production makes an impact, using social media, blogs and apps to promote and showcase your work. You will also explore a variety of different roles in film and TV production by engaging in both group and individual projects. In your final year you can choose to specialise in an area of film and television production that interests you most.

Throughout the course you will have access to our dedicated TV studios, specialist film and TV equipment and edit suites and staff. We will provide you will all the tools you need to help tell compelling stories with impact.

York is the UK’s only UNESCO City of Media Arts. It is the perfect place to develop as a media producer. We have partnerships with organisations like Screen Yorkshire’s Connected Campus Network and the BAFTA-qualifying Aesthetica Short Film Festival. You will be able to attend regular industry masterclasses and workshops, which will give you further access to expert knowledge and professional networking opportunities.

Course structure

Year 1

Our academic year is split into 2 semesters. How many modules you study each semester will depend on whether you are a full time or part time student.

In your first year, if you are a full time student, you will study: 

  • 3 compulsory modules in semester 1 
  • 3 compulsory modules in semester 2

If you are a part time student, the modules above will be split over 2 years.

You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.

Modules

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

On this module you will develop your research and academic skills. Working with visiting professionals, you will begin in depth research into an area that interests you. This research will be framed around the differences between regional, national and international industries. While investigating your chosen topic, you will also interrogate the issues surrounding media theory and practice.

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

Working in television requires being able to work in multiple roles across multiple projects. On this module, you will learn the basic relevent technical, production and collaborative skills needed to produce a TV show. As an individual, you will produce different genres of studio shows. As a collaborator, you will work in a group to create a studio show. As well as learning new skills, you will understand the importance of health and safety laws, as well as production etiquette and research methods. 

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

On this module, you will develop your knowledge of the processes and technical skills required for media production, such as: 

  • Production management as it relates to location production
  • Basic location camera and sound operation
  • Collaboration and conflict resolution
  • Awareness of roles and responsibilities of location production
  • Basic production research
  • Basic interview techniques

You will produce a package for news and features, a short documentary and a reflective document. 

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

On this module you will explore some of the contemporary debates and issues which impact media production today. We will consider the cultural, economic and political power of media, and what this means for both producers and audiences. Through this module you will further develop your study skills, including:

  • Research methods
  • Essay writing
  • Theoretical and historical modes of study
  • Referencing skills
  • Sourcing and using evidence

This enquiry-based, interactive style of learning will help to build your knowledge and confidence in your writing, preparing you for the more independent study you will need to carry out later in the course.

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

This module brings together all of the practical film and television making skills and knowledge you have gained in your first year. Through this introductory module for creating fictional projects, you will examine and investigate various production techniques, conventions and styles. You will have the opportunity to engage in the practical activity of developing fictional content for the screen, as we nurture your creativity and professionalism in film and TV production. As part of the module we will also address production ethics, issues of representation and the legal frameworks to which screen artefacts should comply.

Credits: 40

Compulsory module

On this module you will explore the art of storytelling and learn to write fictional narratives for the screen. This will involve investigating storytelling devices and techniques, along with scriptwriting conventions and styles. You will begin to develop your own stories for the screen, as well as learning professional formatting standards and engaging with the ethics of representation. You will learn to identify opportunities for exploiting story concepts, and turn your ideas into creative outputs.

Year 2

In your second year, if you are a full time student, you will study:

  • 1 compulsory module and 1 optional module in semester 1
  • 1 compulsory module and 1 optional module in semester 2

If you are a part time student, the modules above will be split over 2 years.

You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.

Optional modules will run if they receive enough interest. It is not guaranteed that all modules will run every year.

Modules

Credits: 40

Compulsory module

This module will involve exploring theories in documentary forms and contexts, as well as considering their implications for the audiences. Through lectures, visiting speakers, seminars, selected screenings and group tasks, you will discuss how to define a documentary, as well as the impact of different types of factual films. Your practice will develop through seminars, workshops, visits from documentary makers, and a practical exploration of pitching, funding and research.

Credits: 20

Optional module

This module provides an introduction to the exciting and controversial world of experimental film making. You will learn about underground, alternative, non-Hollywood and avant garde filmmakers, and their impact on mainstream media. Through this you will develop an understanding of the differences between distributing and exhibiting experimental films and more conventional media. For your assessment you will produce an avant garde work alongside a reflective portfolio.

Credits: 20

Optional module

On this module you will delve into the world of transmedia, defined as a narrative told across multiple media platforms. This is an opportunity for you to to find creative solutions to critical problems and develop your digital literacy. Your role will be as an independent producer of a piece of transmedia, and you will be responsible for all aspects of production, from the initial concept to creating the work.

Credits: 40

Compulsory module

On this module, you will produce a short film or TV drama to be shown at a film festival. Your research will include alternative and historical film making practices. While creating your film, you will also be required to develop a marketing strategy, including:

  • Research into potential audiences
  • Targeting specific film festivals or outlets appropriate for their film's exhibition
  • Social media marketing strategies
  • Crowdfunding
  • Creating press packs, posters, trailers and merchandise 

Credits: 20

Optional module

Throughout the history of cinema there has been conflict as to whether "indie" is a genre, with clear tropes and styles, or if it is a work that is made outside of the studio system. On this module, you will investigate the idea of "independent cinema" and analyse the difficulties of agreeing on an absolute definition of the term. Your analysis will cover debates surrounding exploitation cinema, how we define quality, and the ways in which independent films are marketed. Specific topics you will cover include:

  • United Artists and early independent practice
  • The role of independent production companies at major studios 
  • Queer cinemas
  • Films produced by people of colour
  • The growth of ‘indiewood’, ‘minor-majors’ and ‘mini-majors’
  • British independent cinema in the absence of studios

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

On this module you will explore how institutions and industries can impact television production. The media landscape is changing, and you will investigate the challenges and advantages of digital distribution. In an age of mass consumption and video on demand (VOD), more content needs to be made available than ever before. You will consider how a digitised industry can and has affected labour markets, especially with the rise of high production.

 

Year 3

In your third year, if you are a full time student, you will study:

  • 2 compulsory modules and 1 optional module in semester 1
  • 1 compulsory module and 1 optional module in semester 2

If you are a part time student, the modules above will be split over 2 years.

You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.

Optional modules will run if they receive enough interest. It is not guaranteed that all modules will run every year.

Modules

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

On this module you will develop your own research project on a media topic you are passionate about. This could relate to your career aspirations, your practical work, or a theoretical concept. We will teach you about research methods and ethics so that you can apply ethical research methods to your work. You can choose to write a traditional dissertation or a piece of practice-led work. Alternatively, you could produce a piece of critical media and write a short thesis to support it.

Credits: 20

Optional module

The world of media is best explored practically. On this module you will complete 200 hours of work place learning as part of a professional production team. Within this timeframe, you will work on all aspects of a production, from pitching ideas, to time management and delivering the product. Supported by tutors, industry experts and technical staff, you will work to a brief set as set by major broadcasters. You will be assessed based on the requirements of your clients and how you follow professional compliance practices.

Credits: 20

Optional module

Quality cinematography and production design are essential pieces of a successful media project. On this module you will develop your historical, theoretical, and intellectual understanding of production design and cinematography. We will also encourage you to explore and experiment with your approach to the techniques of cinematography, including:

  • Movement  
  • Lighting  
  • Colour theory  
  • Screen aesthetics  
  • Texture

Credits: 20

Optional module

On this module you will explore a creative specialism related to your chosen professional practice in media production. Specifically, you will focus on how you will develop your vision with performances in mind. This includes analysis of how the body and voice are brought together on screen, as well as understanding the key components of connecting with a non-live audience.

Credits: 20

Optional module

On this module you will study and practise skills related to collaboration, reflexive working, and keeping costs within budget. You will consider different styles of production co-ordination, organisational management, planning, communication, and people management. This is a great opportunity to identify and develop your own management style.

Topics may include:

  • Communication
  • Collaboration
  • Dealing with change and challenging existing forms of practice
  • Production hierarchies
  • Production management software
  • Health and safety regulation and risk assessing

Credits: 20

Optional module

This module is an opportunity to develop your artistic craft while exploring a specific media form. You will work on a piece of media and use your knowledge and experience to investigate the possible legacy of your work. When investigating the future implications of media, you will consider various areas of cultural interest, including:

  • How films and television programmes function as visual artefacts
  • How film and television visual post-production processes have developed in relation to technological, socio-economic and political factors
  • How various kinds of historical norms, conventions and styles of post-production emerged and how they have been contested and challenged

Credits: 40

Compulsory module

On this module you will bring together the knowledge and skills you have developed throughout your degree to produce a substantial piece of sports journalism. This could be in the form of a documentary, a series of written features, or a magazine. You will present a project proposal to your supervisor which will include an explanation of the idea, target audience and budgets, plans for distribution, and marketing materials. You will then plan and produce the media artefact, working either individually or as part of a team.

Credits: 20

Optional module

Using multiple cameras when filming a scene or event is a unique art form that requires distinct skills and understanding. On this module, you will explore the creative use of multi-camera filming set ups, and develop your own creative practice in this area. You will create a portfolio of audio-visual material developed during the module, to a specific brief negotiated between you and your supervisor, this may include:

  • A group-produced TV show
  • Promo video
  • Scripts
  • Research file
  • Production paperwork

Credits: 20

Optional module

On this module you will specialise in a discipline related to sound by creating an original piece of audio media. Your practice will involve everything from the gathering of audio, through to the final stages of post production. You will develop practical skills for creating professional audio and editing sound for film and television. Throughout the module, you will consider how which media appeals to our senses, emotions and reason, and how audio production strategies can effect these.   

Teaching and assessment

Teaching and learning

The best way to learn a practical subject like film and television production is by doing it. We deliver your modules through:

  • Seminars
  • Workshops
  • Technical demonstrations
  • Lectures.

Each module has 2 to 3 hours of contact time a week. We schedule our taught sessions between 9:00am and 5:00pm, Monday to Friday. You will also have access to edit suites and learning spaces outside those hours.

You will need to conduct independent study outside of this time. This might include reading, researching and completing your assignments. You can also arrange academic tutorials with your module tutors throughout the year to receive feedback on your work and discuss the course content.

Our teaching draws on both our research and professional experience. This means your learning is informed by the most current thinking in the subject area. You can find out more about our research and backgrounds by visiting our staff pages.

Assessment

There are no exams on this course. Assessment types are based on practical coursework projects and vary from module to module. We have designed them to reflect the work you will do in the industry. Some of your assessments might include:

  • Portfolios of practical work
  • Essays
  • Presentations.

For each assessment you will have the chance to talk to a tutor about your work before submission. Each assessment will be marked and returned with feedback so you can improve your work.

Career outcomes

Your future with a degree in Film and Television Production

This course gives you the business, technical and creative skills you need to succeed in the film and television industry. You will also gain skills in project management, communication and collaboration that are in high demand in a range of other careers.

This degree could be the first step toward your career as a:

  • Film director
  • Lighting technician
  • Location manager
  • Special effects technician
  • TV camera operator
  • TV producer

Discover more career options on Prospects careers advice pages.

You could also progress onto a postgraduate degree and take your learning even further.

Postgraduate degrees at York St John University

Media Production MA

PGCE at York St John University

Further your education and work towards a rewarding career in teaching by studying for a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) after you graduate. For over 180 years, we have worked with enthusiastic individuals who want to shape the future of young people across both primary and secondary school settings. You'll spend a lot of time in schools, developing your practice by teaching. You will graduate with Qualified Teacher Status and become part of the well respected alumni of York St John educators.

Discover more about PGCE

Whatever your ambitions, we can help you get there.

Our careers service, LaunchPad provides career support tailored to your ambitions. Through this service you can access:

  • Employer events
  • LinkedIn, CV and cover letter sessions
  • Workshops on application writing and interview skills
  • Work experience and volunteering opportunities
  • Personalised career advice

This support doesn't end when you graduate. You can access our expert career advice for the rest of your life. We will help you gain experience and confidence to succeed.

Entry requirements

Qualifications

Minimum entry requirements

    104 UCAS Tariff points

    3 GCSEs at grade C/4 (or equivalent) including English Language.

Calculate your UCAS Tariff points

International students

If you are an international student you will need to show that your qualifications match our entry requirements.

Information about international qualifications and entry requirements can be found on our International pages.

If English is not your first language you will need to show that you have English Language competence at IELTS level 6.0 (with no skill below 5.5) or equivalent.

International entry requirements

 

Mature Learners Entry Scheme

If you have been out of education for 3 years or more and have a grade C GCSE in English Language or equivalent, you are eligible for our entry scheme for mature learners. It's a scheme that recognises non-traditional entry qualifications and experience for entry onto this course. Information on how to apply can be found on our dedicated page.

Mature entry offer scheme

Terms and conditions

Our terms and conditions, policies and procedures contain important information about studying at York St John University. You can read them on our Admissions page.

Fees and funding

To study for an undergraduate degree with us, you will need to pay tuition fees for your course. How much you pay depends on whether you live inside the UK, or internationally (outside the UK).

Tuition fees are reviewed annually and may be increased in line with inflation, prior to the start of each academic year, and subject to the fee cap set by the UK government. Such increases to fees will be at the Retail Price Index (RPI) forecast rate, as advised by the Office for Budget Responsibility and the Office for Students. The only exception to this would be where government legislation deems otherwise.

If a rise in the tuition fee becomes necessary, we will endeavour to inform you as soon as possible and we will explain the reason(s) for the increase. Any tuition fee increase will only be applied from the start of the next academic year and will not be applied 'in year'.

UK 2025 entry

The tuition fee for 2025 entry onto this course is:

  • £9,535 per year for full time study
  • £7,145 per year for the first 4 years if you study part time

These prices apply to all UK, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man students

You can find out more about funding your degree by visiting our funding opportunities page:

Funding Opportunities

Placement year funding

If you choose to take a placement year, and your course offers it, you can apply for the Tuition Fee and Maintenance Loan for your placement year. How much you are awarded is based on the type of placement being undertaken and whether it is a paid or unpaid placement. The tuition fee for your placement year will be reduced.

Tuition fees

    UK 2025 entry £9,535 per year full time

    International 2025 entry £12,100 per year full time

International 2025 entry

The tuition fee for 2025 entry to this course is £12,100 per year for full time study.

This price applies to all students living outside the UK.

Due to immigration laws, if you are an international student on a Student Visa, you must study full time. For more information about visa requirements and short-term study visas, please visit the International Visa and Immigration pages.

Find out more about funding your degree:

International fees and funding

Additional costs and financial support

There may also be some additional costs to take into account throughout your studies, including the cost of accommodation.

Course-related costs

While studying for your degree, there may be additional costs related to your course. This may include purchasing personal equipment and stationery, books and optional field trips.

Study Abroad

For more information on tuition fee reductions and additional costs for studying abroad, please visit our study abroad pages.

Accommodation and living costs

For detailed information on accommodation and living costs, visit our Accommodation pages.

Financial help and support

Our Funding Advice team are here to help you with your finances throughout your degree. They offer a personal service that can help you with funding your studies and budgeting for living expenses. 

For advice on everything from applying for scholarships to finding additional financial support email fundingadvice@yorksj.ac.uk.

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