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 the latest software, every student has the opportunity to realise their creative potential.
- Producing
- Directing
- Scriptwriting
- Cinematography
- Editing
- Film finance
- Distribution
Year 1
Independent Production 1 (40 credits)
A comprehensive introduction to short-form content production, focusing on practical skills in camera and lighting, pre- and post-production techniques, and an understanding of the creative and professional practices within the field.
Scriptwriting 1 (20 credits)
An in-depth exploration into writing for short-form content, covering theoretical and practical aspects, professional practices, and scriptwriting techniques for various media platforms.
Editing for Independent Film (40 credits)
This module equips students 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.
History of Independent Film Production (20 credits)
Lectures focusing on the history of film, VFX and media, giving context to the skills learned in other modules and how these emerged historically.
Year 2
Independent Production 2 (40 credits)
This module advances students’ production skills in narrative filmmaking, focusing on technical and creative aspects, teamwork, project management, and the analysis of cultural influences and professional practices within short film production.
Contemporary Independent Film Production (20 credits)
Gives students an understanding of the environmental and social context, and the structure and operation of contemporary independent-film production, allowing them to build their confidence and knowledge of the modern film industry.
Scriptwriting 2 (20 credits)
Develops students’ advanced scriptwriting techniques and practices by focusing on narrative short film creation. It will equip the students with the ability to formulate their own creative processes and practice through engagement in advanced scriptwriting skills through the development of one or more original scripts.
VFX for Independent Film (20 credits)
Introduces students to key compositing techniques used within the production of independent films enabling students to execute common visual effects tasks using industry-standard software.
Audio Production (20 credits)
Introduces students to key components and connections common to Digital Audio Workstations and techniques used in post-production audio workflows for independent film.
Year 3
Honours Project (40 credits)
This module prepares students for professional independent production by developing specialist skills through creative thinking, research, project formulation, and critical analysis, culminating in a persuasive project that showcases their unique style and interests.
Independent Production 3 (40 credits)
Develops students’ production techniques by focusing on professional narrative feature-film creation. It will also equip the students with professional production skills and practices to realise distinctive and creative work and critically analyse creative professional practice within independent film production.
Scriptwriting 3 (40 credits)
This module enhances students’ scriptwriting skills for independent feature films, focusing on creative development, critical analysis, and professional techniques, including character creation, dramatic structure, and genre study.
Ready to apply? No need to wait for UCAS – you can apply directly to Futureworks now!
Why Choose The Independent Filmmaking Degree at Futureworks?
Our course focuses on the real world of filmmaking. You will be working within incredible facilities, using the exact same equipment and software that is currently used within the industry. We have a hugely impressive studio space located just ten minutes away in Media City that can be adapted for any need – whether creating a studio, building sets or using green screens – a great shooting space in which you can bring your creative vision to life.
You will work with enthusiastic and highly experienced tutors – all our tutors have worked in the industry and have a raft of big name film credits. If you have similar enthusiasm, then you will feel at home at Futureworks. Our tutors want you to succeed while you are here, but they also want to see you succeed when you leave us.
One of the bonuses of studying at Futureworks is the unique collaborative experience. Not only can you work in partnership with students on your own course, but also with students from other departments like sound, visual effects and editing – there’s a real sense of creative collaboration among like-minded people all trying to produce their very best work. This is something we encourage because it reflects the way the industry itself work.
Upon graduation, you will achieve not only a recognised degree qualification, but will also be equipped with a showreel and strong portfolio of film productions allowing you to hit the ground running on an exciting and fulfilling career. This course, developed in consultation with industry, is designed to equip hard-working and enthusiastic individuals with the skills to succeed as independent filmmakers with the ability to create their own films or work in the rapidly growing media industry.
This course is validated by the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)
Your Independent Filmmaking Career Opportunities
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.
Location & Teaching
Your primary location of study will be at our Riverside Campus, which is located on New Bailey Street in Manchester. As part of your course, some of your lessons will take place at our Futureworks Studios facility located in MediaCityUK, a few miles from the city centre.
Futureworks recognises that the skills, competencies and contribution of its staff are vital to the delivery of high quality Higher Education. All programmes are managed by a dedicated Programme Leader and team of experienced tutors, and our excellent links with industry employers mean you’ll have access to exciting guest lectures and fantastic opportunities to gain experience on real-world projects.
Applying to this Course
To be considered for this course, you will require 104-120 UCAS points.
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 about applying for a degree course please call us on 0161 214 4602, email [email protected] or look at our Admissions page.
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.
All of our courses start in September and are full time, 3 year courses. More information on relevant dates can be found on the Term Dates page.
International Students
Futureworks is able to accept any applications from applicants who require a Student Visa (formerly called Tier 4 Visa) to study in the UK. Entry criteria for International students will vary. Please see International Students for full details.
“I have enjoyed my experience so far and believe I am on the right track to accumulate the skills to participate in the film industry.”
Futureworks Independent Filmmaking BA (Hons) Student
"Really enjoying it, All staff extremely friendly and helpful along with the students."
BA (Hons) Independent Filmmaking
Validated By
