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Film Production and Theatre BA

Key Information

Course code

W244

W24P with placement

Start date

September

Placement available

Mode of study

3 years full-time

4 years full-time with placement

6 years part-time

Fees

2024/25

UK £9,250

International £19,430

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Entry requirements

2024/25

AAB - BBC (A-level)

DMM (BTEC)

29 (IB)

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Overview

Do you want to work in an industry which creates moments of temporary escapism on stage or on screen for captivated audiences? If so, the Film Production and Theatre BA at Brunel is the course for you. You will be able to combine your love for the theatre with your passion for films and turn your creativity into a fantastic fulfilling career.

Your degree will give you a thorough understanding of film by combining the production with the theory of visual digital media. Delve into practical film and video-making, scriptwriting, filming and editing, whilst honing your critical analysis and research skills to develop a comprehensive understanding of how the film and TV industries work.

In addition to film production skills, you will also have the opportunity to study a wide variety of theatre-related specialisms such as acting, applied practice, devising/theatre making, digital theatre, musical theatre, physical theatre and writing for performance. This course will prepare you to pursue a wide range of careers in the theatre and entertainment industries and beyond.

The course will allow you to bring your ideas, thoughts and inspirations to the screen. By using the fantastic editing suites with up-to-date production software including Avid with accredited training facilities for Final Cut Pro 10 you will be able to bring your creations to life.

During your degree, you will be able to immerse yourself in one of the cultural capitals of the world. Being so close to London will give you easy access to the city’s rich and diverse culture and theatre events. You will have the opportunity to go on theatre visits and take part in workshops with cutting edge theatre companies as part of your course. Past theatre trips have included productions in the West End, The Barbican, The National Theatre, Royal Court, Sadler’s Wells and many others.

As well as enhancing your learning by attending screenings at the British Film Institute, the Institute of Contemporary Arts and other cinemas across the capital, you will also be eligible to enter our annual Brunel University Film Festival (BUFF) with categories including Best Fiction, Best Non-Fiction and Best Overall Film. This will allow you to put what you have learnt into practice.

Learn with confidence knowing that you are taught by cutting edge academics and industry specialists who are some of the best in the UK. You’ll benefit from their in-depth knowledge and passion for what they teach as well as their first-hand experience of what it takes to break into the film and theatre industries. Many have published work in the field, so some of the books on your reading list may be written by those teaching you.

Gain insight into life after your studies by putting your learning into practice through a one-year work placement. You will graduate with valuable work experience to enhance your employment prospects and will be able to develop an understanding of the working world within the film or theatre industry. We have excellent links with a wide range of notable external organisations, so you will have the opportunity to apply for high quality placements across London.

Previous students have undertaken placement at many prestigious venues including The Pinewood Group, Fremantle Media, Objective Productions, Mousetrap Theatre Company, Finsborough Theatre, Grieg City Academy and the Unicorn Theatre.

The Film Production and Theatre BA is a part of the BAFTA albert education partnership. This accreditation provides students with exclusive access to the industry’s BAFTA albert carbon calculator, a tool used by Netflix, BBC, ITV, Channel 4, UKTV and Sky when producing their content. Participating students will work towards creating environmentally-friendly, sustainable content. Upon completion you will be presented with industry-recognised certification and become an official “BAFTA albert graduate”. This opportunity is provided at no extra cost.

You will graduate with the confidence to be a creative and imaginative cultural producer with solid knowledge of film and theatre processes and practical experience which will put you in good stead for your future career.

bafta albert logo

Course content

This innovative course allows you to combine your acting and directing skills in theatre with knowledge of film culture and production skills and processes.

For 2024/2025, we have transformed our curriculum to offer exciting and cutting-edge perspectives in both Film and Theatre (pending validation). For your practical modules, you’ll have access to state-of-the-art equipment, including HD digital cameras. You’ll learn to edit on Avid and Final Cut Pro in our first-class edit suites, with plenty of technical support on hand.

You must select a balance of credits in Film and in Theatre, inclusive of compulsory modules to a total of 120 credits.

Compulsory

  • The Craft of Filmmaking

    With the central aim of developing your creative and technical skills, this module will introduce you to the vocabulary, concepts and equipment needed in film production. You will work collaboratively with your peers to train with our technical and academic staff as well as engage in all aspects of storytelling. This is where you begin your journey learning the conventions and practices of filmmaking with our industry standard equipment.

  • Performance Studies: Creative Practice and Research

    Embark on a journey to critically explore the theoretical and practical realms of performance. Uncover how the study of performance can dynamically respond to challenges on local, national, and global stages. This module provides a canvas to apply performance analysis to political, social, artistic, and cultural phenomena, offering insights into the transformative impact performance practices and research can have on individuals and communities.

  • The Professional Self

    This module engages students in their own professional development. Throughout the module, you will take part in scheduled professional development sessions, for instance camera training, edit training, and CV workshops. Throughout the module there will be an emphasis on developing professional behaviours such as timekeeping, attendance, participation, organisation and communication. You will also have the opportunity to engage with students in other levels of study and learn to effectively work in a team.

Optional

  • Film and TV Analysis

    Uncover some of the core skills in analysing and reading film and television texts. This module focuses particularly on how we might understand film and television in terms of the context of its production and reception. We will carefully consider the importance of social, cultural and political contextual relationships with film and television products.

  • Technology, Industry and Form

    Sometimes we might become preoccupied with film and television as an artform, which is important. But we also need to consider developments in the industry in terms of economic models, and changes in technology and context. This module examines how film developed in terms of sound, colour, the development of the classical Hollywood system, and where we are today in terms of industry models. We will also look at television from the broadcast era through to contemporary streaming services today.

  • Representation and Identity

    It’s important in the film and television industry to consider whose stories are being told, who is in creative roles behind the camera and how people are being represented. This module will explore identity politics and consider theory such as feminism, queer theory, postcolonialism and disability studies, among others. We will consider how certain identities are portrayed onscreen both historically and now.

  • Theatre Making

    Unleash your creativity as this module introduces diverse strategies for crafting theatre. Lay the groundwork for your creative journey by understanding devising and dramaturgical principles, connecting the dots between various performance elements to give life to your imaginative expressions.

  • The Performer: Acting and Performance

    Dive into the world of performers and their unique abilities to craft theatrical performances. This module is your backstage pass to developing performance skills, drawing inspiration from a diverse array of training practices, and navigating the exciting boundaries between training, rehearsal, and the spotlight of live performance.

Compulsory

  • Advanced Filmmaking

    This module allows you to develop your film practice and production skills further. You will continue developing skills learnt in level 4 in relation to filmmaking. You will develop your critical appreciation of fictional filmmaking and the processes that are involved by engaging in practical work throughout the module.

  • Performance Lab

    Transform your curiosity into a dynamic performance exploration. Engage with performance to probe specific topics, unravel issues, and pose questions. This module empowers you to view performance not just as an art but as a potent mode of inquiry into the world around you.

Optional

  • Creative Research Project

    Embark on an intellectual journey as this module introduces you to diverse realms of arts research. Survey recent and emerging research, analyse existing practices, and master key academic approaches that will shape your research endeavours within and beyond the academic realm.

  • Gender as Performance

    Join the exploration of performance practices and practitioners delving into the critical discourse surrounding gender. Develop not only a critical vocabulary but also frameworks to dissect gender as a vibrant performance woven into everyday life. This module takes you on a global adventure, exploring transnational analyses of gender performances.

  • Applied Drama Project

    Step into the shoes of a creative powerhouse. This module invites you to create and evaluate applied drama workshops and performances tailored for specific audiences. Dive into collaborative ventures within student companies, where collective working becomes the heartbeat of your creative process.

  • Musical Theatre Makers

    This module will introduce you to key practitioners in the field of musical theatre aiding you to recognize and ponder the impact these practitioners have had on shaping the art form. Analyse the critical aspects of musical theatre, journey through its historical lineage, and feel the stage come alive as you gain practical insights through performance.

  • Acting as a Critical Practice

    Immerse yourself in the captivating world of naturalism and acting as a critical practice. Explore the techniques of pioneers such as Zola, Hagen, Adler, and venture into the intersection of naturalism with magical realism, Epic Theatre, and farce. This module is your ticket to understanding how acting and critical practices intersect with the rich tapestry of cultural contexts.

  • Professional Practice

    This module aims to build on the content of the level 4 module The Professional Self, further engaging students in their own professional development. There will be an emphasis on the professional world, looking at freelancing, setting up a business, insurance, ethics, and tax.

    Throughout the module there will be an emphasis on further developing their own professional behaviours such as leadership, risk assessment, timekeeping, attendance, participation, organisation and communication, as well as mentoring students from level 4 through the development of their professional behaviours.

  • Film and TV Genres

    Genre is integral to mainstream filmmaking and beyond, and this module allows you to engage with critical frameworks and theory for understanding genre in an industrial, historical, and cultural context. A range of case studies are explored in detail allowing students to fully develop an understanding of genre film and television.

  • World Cinemas

    Interested in exploring the dynamic relationships that exist between different cinemas from different places? Then this option is for you. We will consider a range of world cinemas from the Global South, Asia and beyond. We will consider global art and alternative cinemas as well as more mainstream practices, considering films in terms of globalisation and the transnational, as well as the regional and the national.

  • Understanding the Film and TV Industries
  • Critical Perspectives

    Theoretical perspectives are at the core of this module, giving you the frameworks you will need to read and make meaning from film and television. We will consider feminism, structuralism and post-structuralism, Marxism among many other approaches we might take to understanding film and television.

  • Filmmaking as Activism

    Students will explore the role that film plays in advocacy, activism and social justice. The purpose of this module is to provide opportunities for students to create a portfolio of moving image work that has been developed to address social injustice. Students will explore the role of corporate, NGO, commercial and independent filmmaking, as well as looking at campaigns and distribution strategies. Students will work in a team and contribute to decision making processes.

  • Film and TV Adaptation

    A production-based module, you will be able to explore the process of adaptation from a variety of sources to the screen. Developing your creative skills you will consider many forms of storytelling and character construction as well as developing your production filmmaking skills.

  • Animation

    Firstly, this module will allow you to explore the medium specificity of animation, the range of techniques available, as well as different industries and their development. We will then go on to teach you a range of animation production skills which will allow you to create your own short form animation in a style and medium of your choosing.

Compulsory

  • Contemporary Theatre Project

    Become a creator of original performance works, drawing from your interdisciplinary experiences. Navigate the dynamic interplay between performance-making and the ever-changing contexts of local, national, and international stages. This module equips you with tools to not only create but also market your work effectively.

  • Drama, Theatre, and Performance Dissertation

    Undertake a substantial research journey, crafting a written dissertation that contributes to the field. This module is designed to empower you to plan, design, and execute a specialised project. Develop research skills, critically evaluate your project, and leave an indelible mark on the academic landscape.

  • Film Practice Dissertation

    This is your final year film project and provides students with the opportunity to produce dissertation films and choose two specialisms that demonstrate a high level of achievement in Film Production. Each student will specialize in two areas of film practice. The specialisms correspond to real world roles in production and are divided into two categories of the above the line and below the line.

Optional

  • Gender and Sexuality

    This module is largely led by feminist theory and queer theory where we examine a range of identities onscreen in relation to gender and sexuality. A number of case studies are examined across the module from historical examples to more contemporary work.

  • Analysis of Film and Television Work Experience

    As part of our employability strand this module will give you a large range of guest talks from people that work across many different parts of the creative industries. Many of the guest speakers are Film@Brunel alumni. You will also have the opportunity to undertake your own work placement as part of this module allowing you to develop both your employability and networking skills.

  • The Horror Film

    This module provides students with an in-depth examination of the horror genre across both film and television. Critical frameworks and theories relevant to the study of horror will be explored in depth across a range of case studies from historical and more contemporary contexts, as well as from a range of global contexts.

  • Alternative Film and Video Practice

    If you are interested in alternative or more experimental approaches to filmmaking, then this module is for you. Exploring a range of examples from distinct periods of filmmaking history, this module will also allow you to creative your own experimental film. You will also examine connections between the economic, formal-aesthetic and social-political aspects of these alternative practices.

  • Documentary: Image and Violence

    This module will give you the skills to analyse cinematic representations of violence and develop a critical awareness of different types of violence in relation to warfare and military technology. You will gain skills in developing insights into visual themes, narrative structures and techniques used in moving images’ engagements with violence. You will also have the opportunity to develop techniques for the use of found footage to research and communicate different types of violence.

  • Advanced Acting

    Elevate your acting in this performance-focused module. Intensive workshops, theatre productions, and a focus on realism and naturalism await you. Dive into the techniques of acting pioneers and let the stage become your workshop for honing your skills.

  • Anti-Racism and Performance

    Ignite change as you explore anti-racism through the lens of performance. Navigate the historical landscapes of Critical Race Theory and delve into the intricate relationships between race, racism, and colonialism. This module is your gateway to understanding how performance becomes a powerful tool for social repair, protest, and activism.

  • Advanced Creative Research Project

    Embark on a research adventure, independently and within a vibrant community of peers. This module mirrors doctoral research contexts, offering a blend of taught sessions, practical workshops, and collaborative exploration. Your journey involves discovering, testing, refining, sharing, and reflecting on emerging research findings.

  • Advanced Musical Theatre

    Fine-tune your instrument—voice and body—in this practical module. Develop rehearsal and performance skills, seamlessly integrate singing, dancing, and acting, and embark on a journey of critical self-reflection on your evolving practice. Explore the industrial context of the musical theatre performer and master the art of auditioning with confidence and flair.

  • Professional Practice and Development

    Prepare for your journey from university to professional practice with this module. Gain sector-specific insights and align academic experiences with career goals. The module develops crucial skills for post-graduation challenges, ensuring graduates emerge academically enriched, focused on key employment areas, and prepared for life after university.

  • Contemporary Theatre Project

    Become a creator of original performance works, drawing from your interdisciplinary experiences. Navigate the dynamic interplay between performance-making and the ever-changing contexts of local, national, and international stages. This module equips you with tools to not only create but also market your work effectively.

  • Drama, Theatre, and Performance Dissertation

    Undertake a substantial research journey, crafting a written dissertation that contributes to the field. This module is designed to empower you to plan, design, and execute a specialised project. Develop research skills, critically evaluate your project, and leave an indelible mark on the academic landscape.


This course can be studied undefined undefined, starting in undefined.

This course has a placement option. Find out more about work placements available.


Please note that all modules are subject to change.

Careers and your future

During your work experience you’ll gain training and skills in your area of interest and get insight into the working practices of film and theatre organisations. You’ll develop the problem-solving and management skills required to succeed in your future career.

We have extensive links with employers and industry and you’ll benefit from our networks to arrange your work placement. We can also support you in approaching a business of your choice.

Our graduates have secured jobs with companies including BBC, ITV, Granada, Amazon Prime, Framestore and Ridley Scott Associates as casting agents, researchers, production assistants, script writers, video content editors and film officers.

As well as gaining excellent academic knowledge throughout your studies, emphasis is placed on gaining transferable employment skills. You will develop communication, report writing and presentation skills to an excellent level, equipping you for a range of subsequent professional careers.

Brunel’s Professional Development Centre is a dedicated service that are committed to increasing our students' employability, helping you to develop the skills and experience you need to stand out in the job market. They will help you with placements, CV writing and interviews during your time with us, and will still be on-hand to help you for two years after you graduate.

UK entry requirements

2024/25 entry

  • GCE A-level AAB-BBC.
  • BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma DMM in any subject.
  • BTEC Level 3 Diploma DM in any subject, with an A-Level at grade C.
  • BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma M in any subject, with A-Levels grades BB.
  • International Baccalaureate Diploma 29 points.
  • Obtain a minimum of 112 UCAS tariff points in the  Access to HE Diploma with 45 credits at Level 3.
  • T levels : Merit overall

Applicants with relevant theatre experience may also be considered.

A minimum of five GCSEs are required, including GCSE Mathematics grade C or grade 4 and GCSE English Language grade C or grade 4 or GCSE English Literature grade B or grade 5.

Brunel University London is committed to raising the aspirations of our applicants and students. We will fully review your UCAS application and, where we’re able to offer a place, this will be personalised to you based on your application and education journey.

Please check our Admissions pages for more information on other factors we use to assess applicants as well as our full GCSE requirements and accepted equivalencies in place of GCSEs.

EU and International entry requirements

English language requirements

  • IELTS: 6.5 (min 5.5 in all areas)
  • Pearson: 59 (59 in all subscores)
  • BrunELT: 63% (min 55% in all areas)
  • TOEFL: 90 (min R18, L17, S20, W17)  

You can find out more about the qualifications we accept on our English Language Requirements page.

Should you wish to take a pre-sessional English course to improve your English prior to starting your degree course, you must sit the test at an approved SELT provider for the same reason. We offer our own BrunELT English test and have pre-sessional English language courses for students who do not meet requirements or who wish to improve their English. You can find out more information on English courses and test options through our Brunel Language Centre.

Please check our Admissions pages for more information on other factors we use to assess applicants. This information is for guidance only and each application is assessed on a case-by-case basis. Entry requirements are subject to review, and may change.

Fees and funding

2024/25 entry

UK

£9,250 full-time

£6,935 part-time

£1,385 placement year

International

£19,430 full-time

£14,570 part-time

£1,385 placement year

Fees quoted are per year and may be subject to an annual increase. Home undergraduate student fees are regulated and are currently capped at £9,250 per year; any changes will be subject to changes in government policy. International fees will increase annually, by no more than 5% or RPI (Retail Price Index), whichever is the greater.

More information on any additional course-related costs.

See our fees and funding page for full details of undergraduate scholarships available to Brunel applicants.

Please refer to the scholarships pages to view discounts available to eligible EU undergraduate applicants.

Teaching and learning

You’ll benefit from lectures, group tutorials, workshops and seminars, as well as one-to-one supervision in your final year project. Group seminars and personal tutorials allow you to learn in smaller groups and in one to one discussions.

To enhance your learning you will be taught and have access to fantastic state of the art facilities and equipment including; 17 fully-equipped edit suites, using Final Cut Pro X, Avid and/or Adobe Premiere and cameras including Canon C100, Sony PMW200, Canon XF100, Canon 5D.

Should you need guidance on the module, coursework and any other matters that may wish to discuss, module tutors are available for one-to-one tutorials.

Should you need any non-academic support during your time at Brunel, the Student Support and Welfare Team are here to help.

Module teaching across the programme (lectures/seminars/tutorials) will take place in person on campus, and will be supported by the provision of asynchronous materials (e.g. lecture recordings etc.).

Other activities, including dissertation drop-ins, personal tutor meetings, assessment workshops, guest speaker events, and one-to-one tutorials may take place in person or online, as appropriate. We'll endeavour to take into account student preferences when arranging these activities, as well as other practical considerations, with an eye firmly on providing an excellent student experience at all times.

You will have access to the Adobe Creative Cloud software through the university facilities such as Mac labs and edit suites, if you wish to have a license on your personal computer you will have to pay for it, however this is not a requirement. It is recommended that you purchase a large external hard drive.

Access to a laptop or desktop PC is required for joining online activities, completing coursework and digital exams, and a minimum specification can be found here.

We have computers available across campus for your use and laptop loan schemes to support you through your studies. You can find out more here.

Students will no longer be given individual licenses for the Adobe Creative Cloud as this was a covid contingency in response to the limited access to specialist on-campus facilities.

You’ll benefit from lectures, group tutorials, workshops and seminars, as well as one-to-one supervision in your final year project. Group seminars and personal tutorials allow you to learn in smaller groups and in one to one discussions.

To enhance your learning you will be taught and have access to fantastic state of the art facilities and equipment including; 17 fully-equipped edit suites, using Final Cut Pro X, Avid and/or Adobe Premiere and cameras including Canon C100, Sony PMW200, Canon XF100, Canon 5D.

Should you need guidance on the module, coursework and any other matters that may wish to discuss, module tutors are available for one-to-one tutorials.

Should you need any non-academic support during your time at Brunel, the Student Support and Welfare Team are here to help.

Assessment and feedback

Assessment will be through completing practical performances (in-class and public), and through videos, scripting, storyboards, websites, coursework essays/projects, seminar presentations and video essays.

You will also produce a portfolio of work showcase your creativity and your practical abilities. This will be a vital tool to demonstrate your abilities to potential employers.

All final-year students are required to complete a dissertation or project under the supervision of a member of the teaching team. This may take the form of a practice-based film project with an accompanying analysis or practice-based project in Theatre, or a written piece on a subject of your choice.