Independent Filmmaking

BA (Hons) Undergraduate Degree

UCAS Code F3M6
Start Date 01/09/2026
Duration 3 Years
UCAS Points 104-120

Places for September 2026. Start your journey today!

Course Overview

The UK is a world leader in award-winning independent films and Futureworks is a frontrunner in educating passionate, dedicated students in the art of filmmaking through our Independent Filmmaking Degree.

Every year more and more films are financed and made independently outside of the large studio systems, many of which go on to sweep the boards at awards ceremonies. Working with award-winning professionals on industry-standard equipment and using the latest software, every student has the opportunity to realise their creative potential.

Our course focuses on the real world of filmmaking. You will be working within incredible facilities and using high-quality equipment and software that prepares you for working within the industry.

What will I study?
  • Film Production
  • Editing for Independent Film
  • Film Theory
  • Audio for Film & TV
  • Scriptwriting for Short Films
  • Scriptwriting For Pilots
  • Scriptwriting For Features
Film Production 1 (40 credits)
Introduces you to the professional workflows of production. This takes the bulk of the equipment needed to produce a professional production in multiple formats. This culminates in assessment of your first professional production through Micro filmmaking using teamwork, writing, producing, directing and cinematography skills.
Editing for Independent Film (40 credits)
This module equips you with fundamental editing skills using industry-standard software, focusing on technical, creative, and professional practices in editing, as well as the influence of social, cultural, and ethical issues on the editing process.
Film Theory (20 credits)
This module introduces you to research and research methodology to ensure you understand the importance of reliable, valid results that addresses aims and objectives. This is done through the lens of Film Theory in an historical and contemporary approach.
Scriptwriting for Short Films (20 credits)
This module Introduces you to professional scriptwriting techniques and the building blocks of creative story telling in the film world. It focuses on short films.
Film Production 2 (40 credits)
Building on Film Production 1 this module focuses more on the creative aspects of filmmaking. Bringing collaboration to the forefront where you can begin to focus your passion for a specific role within the production process. It also introduces you to collaboration with external stakeholders, such as professional actors.
Professional Industry Practice (20 credits)
Prepares the you for the world of work in a multitude of ways from how to create a freelance portfolio to the techniques needed to become adept at employability.
Scriptwriting For Pilots (20 credits)
Builds on the techniques learnt in the previous year. The format changes to television and specifically TV pilots and how to create potential long running series arcs with multiple characters and storylines.
Audio for Film & TV (40 credits)
Takes the entire audio process from initial ideas formulated from the script through pre- production, audio recording on set, ADR, audio effects and mixing. This is a complementary module and youwill gain a base understanding that will enhance your ability to collaborate with audio professionals.
Major Project (40 credits)
This module prepares you for professional independent production by developing specialist skills through creative thinking, research, project formulation, and critical analysis, culminating in a persuasive project that showcases your unique style and interests.
Film Production 3 (40 credits)
Building on Film Production 2 this module focuses more on the Business aspects of filmmaking. Combining the creative and the technical with business you dive into the world of feature film making. With a bias on specialisation you get the chance to negotiate your role in the assessment and are graded accordingly. This is where you can hone your specific skills to create an individual portfolio.
Scriptwriting For Features (40 credits)
This module runs hand in hand with Film Production 1 with you having the ability to expand stories into full-length one-off feature films. This also allows you to invest in world building and character development on a scale previously not available.
"I also enjoyed the collaborative nature of Futureworks. Like the film industry, the campus is full of creatives who want to work with you on your film."

Thomas Jackson
BA (Hons) Independent Filmmaking alumni

Where can this degree take me?

By the time you have completed our Filmmaking Degree, you will have so much more than a qualification. We aim to fully prepare you for a long-lasting and successful career in filmmaking, not just a job in the film industry. While you are with us, you will have the opportunity to make films that will be shown at film festivals – real films at real festivals. We also expect you to have professional grade work in your portfolio, together with IMDB credits.

We also want you to have your first feature film idea ready to go by the end of your course. A fully prepared proposal with everything in place, ready for you to approach investors. In short, by the time you complete the course you will be an independent filmmaker ready for your chosen career – that could be in the world of music videos, short films, documentaries or even blockbuster feature films.

Ready to apply? Fastrack your application here.
Complete the short form below and we'll be in touch within a few days to get you started on your application journey.

To be considered for this course, you will require 104-120 UCAS points.

This could be gained via a number of qualifications, for example:

  • BCC or above at A2 Level
  • DMM or above at Extended Diploma Level
  • M or above at UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma Level
  • A proven interest in this area

You can apply for this course by applying directly to Futureworks. Alternatively, you can apply via the UCAS system. The UCAS codes for this course are as follows:-

UCAS Code: F3M6

Institution Code: F98

If you have any questions please call us 
on 0161 214 4602 or email admissions@futureworks.ac.uk

Successful applicants will be invited to an interview where you will have the opportunity to talk about your work, influences and interests. A guide will be sent with your interview details to help you prepare for your interview. Ideal applicants will have a keen interest in film, television, and production. You are welcome to bring any relevant examples of work with you, if you have them. This is optional and a portfolio is not required for applications to be considered for this course.