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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.

  • Independent Filmmaking
  • Small Class Sizes
  • Excellent Course Structure
  • Industry Contacts
  • Creative Community
  • Broad Career Opportunities
  • Excellent Tutor Support
  • Real-World Briefs
  • Industry Standard Facilities
  • Year 1
    The first year is the foundation of the course, introducing you to the building blocks of independent filmmaking.
  • Year 2
    Building on your first year, year two is essential in establishing a career focus and shaping your final year.
  • Year 3
    In the final year of study, your honours project will require you to complete a professional portfolio of work focussing on your preferred area of specialism within independent filmmaking.

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.

“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.”

Kara (graduate)
Futureworks Independent Filmmaking BA (Hons) Student

filmmaking degree - students' project
Independent Filmmaking