Master of Arts in Film and Television Industries

at University of the West of England - Bristol - City Campus United Kingdom

Learn your craft from internationally renowned practitioners. We have partnerships with the region's animation industry - including Aardman Animations - and students have the opportunity to get feedback on their films from leading industry professionals.
Accreditations and partnerships:

This practice-led course brings together a diverse range of students, from established practitioners to those seeking a conversion course for a career in animation. Whether your aim is to be an independent animated filmmaker, a character animator, storyteller or designer - this course will support your goals.

You'll study both theoretical and contextual content, developing your understanding of the growing field of animation. You'll learn your craft from our staff team who all have extensive experience in the UK and international animation and media industries.

Bristol is recognised as a global centre for animation production, and you'll benefit from our local partnerships. We have industry links with many of the studios in the city and beyond, such as Aardman Animations

Why study this course?

• The course is based at Bower Ashton, part of our City Campus, where you'll have access to exceptional facilities and resources.
• Experience our state-of the-art technical centres, including 2D, CG and stop-motion animation studios. And build on your skill set by studying in our production and post-production studios, sound recording suites and printmaking and fabrication workshops.
• In your first term, you'll focus on ideas, design and storytelling that you'll apply to your own project work. So you'll be able to follow your interests from the start, tailoring your project to your career aspirations.
• Throughout the course, you'll choose from a range of technical workshops, including stop-motion, 2D digital and CG. This ensures you continually develop your artistic and technical skills.
• MA Animation is accredited by ScreenSkills, the UK's skills body for the screen industries, meaning you'll gain a recognised master's degree. This master's programme is also eligible for the BAFTA scholarship scheme.
• "We had a wonderful time studying at the Bristol School of Animation. We produced a great amount of work. From short films, collaborative projects to live briefs. We developed both our technical and conceptual skills, all thanks to the diversity and support of the course." Hend Esmat and Lamiaa Diab - MA Animation alumni.

Learn in a creative and supportive studio environment with professional-standard facilities and a focus on helping you gain real-world skills for the workplace.

Why study illustration?

• Studying illustration opens the door to diverse careers in the creative industries.
• You will respond to ideas, explore narratives and work across a range of media, including 2D, 3D and moving image.
• Self-directed projects could range from editorial to narrative, 3D model-making to film, animation to artists' books, providing excellent preparation for the commercial world.

Why UWE Bristol?

• BA(Hons) Illustration encourages you to create and develop your own personal visual language. Problem-solving through drawing and making is core.
• You'll be based at Bower Ashton Studios, part of the City Campus. Exceptional facilities and resources include industry-standard digital media studios and production and fabrication workshops.
• Explore a range of media and deepen your awareness of the ideas, concepts and contexts of illustration through theoretical studies. Build an awareness of the professional world and develop core skills through individual experimentation.
• Innovation and individualism are celebrated. Investigate potential contexts and audiences for your work and test yourself against industry expectations through live briefs, and national and international competitions.
• City Campus is a creative powerhouse that spans the city of Bristol and is made up of Bower Ashton, Spike Island, Arnolfini and Watershed.
• Our strong industry links with the thriving city of Bristol ensure input from illustrators and creatives. Visits from respected practitioners will keep you up to date with contemporary illustration practice.
• Attend lectures and seminars at the Arnolfini and Watershed and work in our production and fabrication workshops, equipped with traditional tools and the latest technology.
• Showcase your work to talent scouts and potential employers at the final year Creative Industries Degree Show and D&AD New Blood, London.
• Focusing on the avenues that interest you, you'll graduate with an impressive portfolio of work, ready to make your mark as an illustrator.

Where can it take me?

• This course prepares you for a sustainable and flexible career in illustration.
• Alongside established freelance illustration career paths, our graduates work as film directors, set designers, art/creative directors, illustration agents, visualisers, designers, model-makers, animators, storyboard artists, puppeteers and theatrical/film costume and prop designers.

 Every student is placed within one of our partner institutions alongside a curator who will mentor the student through the year. Our industry partners are all renowned creative and cultural organizations.
This well-connected degree is for those wishing to explore curating and develop curatorial skills in one or more of the following areas: fine art, digital media, film, festivals and social history.

Why study this course?

• You will study alongside an intentionally small and supportive group of students with backgrounds in areas including fine art, sculpture, art history, architecture, 3D design, film studies and history, sharing practice and ideas and providing opportunities to work creatively and collaboratively on group projects.
• Our students value and thrive in a highly professional and creative learning environment led by experienced tutors in a lively and dynamic city with active and engaging cultural communities.
• Curating is based on Bristol's historic waterfront at Arnolfini. Situated above this internationally renowned centre for contemporary art you will be at the heart of Bristol's creative and cultural community, with access to UWE Bristol's City Campus and all it has to offer. Have a look at our UWE Curating blog to find out more.

Art and industry combine on this innovative, practice-based postgraduate course, designed to develop your creative promise, deepen your experience of photography and moving image, and optimise both your artistic and professional potential.

Taught by award-winning artists, photographers and leading academics in the field, our distinctive, practice-based MA in Photography will allow you to explore the diverse applications of the medium, and to deepen your understanding of photography as a discipline.

Through a course of intensive study, creative practice, and professional engagement, you will develop the passion that brought you to photography in the first place, and will be supported in the development and production of innovative work, whilst also building skills to maximise and contextualise your creative outputs.

 Work alongside independent and BBC audio producers, and award-winning academics, to gain valuable experience, insights and contacts for your career in audio journalism.

Why study journalism (audio, docs and podcast)?

• Today's fast-moving digital age has opened up enticing opportunities for journalists wanting to work in audio and radio.
• Producers are needed to create high-quality programs for podcasts, radio and audio documentaries - and graduates specializing in this field will build a compelling set of skills to develop a highly versatile portfolio career.

Why UWE Bristol?

• Offered in partnership with the BBC, our MA Journalism (Audio, Docs and Podcast) is for graduates with a passion for radio, and an interest in journalism and audio documentary making.
• Working with award-winning audio producers, you'll learn to develop your own radio documentaries and podcasts, as you build experience of audio collection techniques, sound and recording, working in a studio and using digital editing software.
• Based at the arts-focused Bower Ashton studios, you'll be immersed in audio and radio for the digital age, putting your skills into practice, and delving into the cultural industry and its supply chain.
• There's a strong emphasis on developing your technical expertise, alongside the skills needed to compete as a producer, such as commissioning, pitching and getting your documentaries to air. You'll also gain useful online skills to develop your own websites and podcasts.
• You will build experience on placements in some of Bristol's most innovative cultural organizations, get to pitch your work to Radio 4 editors and work on your own projects with mentoring from industry.

Where can it take me?

• By the end of the course, you'll be equipped to secure audio journalism work on a freelance or staff basis, in production companies and post-production facilities. You could work as a broadcast assistant, junior researcher, production assistant or studio manager.

Every student is placed within one of our partner institutions alongside a curator who will mentor the student through the year. Our industry partners are all renowned creative and cultural organisations.
This well-connected degree is for those wishing to explore curating and develop curatorial skills in one or more of the following areas: fine art, digital media, film, festivals and social history.

Why study this course?

• You will study alongside an intentionally small and supportive group of students with backgrounds in areas including fine art, sculpture, art history, architecture, 3D design, film studies and history, sharing practice and ideas and providing opportunities to work creatively and collaboratively on group projects.
• Our students value and thrive in a highly professional and creative learning environment led by experienced tutors in a lively and dynamic city with active and engaging cultural communities.
• Curating is based on Bristol's historic waterfront at Arnolfini. Situated above this internationally renowned centre for contemporary art you will be at the heart of Bristol's creative and cultural community, with access to UWE Bristol's City Campus and all it has to offer. Have a look at our UWE Curating blog to find out more.

This production-based course gives you the practical and intellectual skills you need for a successful career in today's creative industries.

Why study filmmaking?

• Our everyday lives are filled with moving images through social media, TV streaming, broadcast TV and cinema to mention just a few.
• Traditional cinema is still a huge and vibrant industry, and the surge in streaming services has created more opportunities for filmmakers to reach their audiences and produce truly cinematic storytelling.
• We're also seeing the expansion of virtual and augmented reality and starting to discover how filmmakers will use this technology in the future.
• The industry needs creative new filmmakers to produce adverts, music videos, social media campaigns, political films, documentaries big and small, TV series, independent titles and big summer blockbusters

Why UWE Bristol?

• BA(Hons) Filmmaking is based at Bower Ashton Studios, part of the City Campus. Exceptional facilities and resources include digital media studios and production and fabrication workshops offering traditional tools and the latest technology.
• This is a production-based degree - you'll learn by making. Our teaching team works at the cutting edge of contemporary media practice, with high levels of practical experience and expertise.
• Attend lectures and seminars at the Arnolfini and Watershed. Develop drama and documentary storytelling skills by developing advanced craft techniques used in the professional media. Gain an in-depth understanding of culture and context.
• The course pushes boundaries, intellectually and imaginatively. Explore filmmaking for the 21st century through development of eclectic short form projects that span the vast opportunities for audience and presentation in the modern industry. Build the knowledge to navigate the industry as it changes over the next 10 to 20 years by applying cutting-edge techniques.
• Our City Campus is a creative powerhouse. It spans across Bristol and is made up of Bower Ashton and renowned contemporary arts centres Spike Island, Arnolfini and Watershed.
• In 2017, Bristol was named UNESCO City of Film because of the strength of the city's moving image culture and industry. The city boasts a strong, skilled-pool of locally-based crew and facilities companies, which includes award-winning freelancers, production and post-production companies.
• Be a part of Bristol's vibrant arts and cultural scene, where students and workers in the creative industries often collaborate.
• Our strong industry contacts include the BBC, ITV, Aardman, Films@59, Bottle Yard Film Studios and E3 Media. They provide ongoing professional input and work experience opportunities.
• Attend talks from broadcast commissioners, cinematographers, directors, composers and coders/designers who will share their influences and techniques. Recent guest speakers include director Ben Wheatley (High Rise), writer and director Gurindha Chandha (Bend It Like Beckham). We have also held masterclasses with editor St John O'Rorke (The White Princess) and art director Sarah Hauldron (Gosford Park).
• Showcase your work to talent scouts and potential employers at the final year Creative Industries Degree Show and graduate with an impressive portfolio of work.

Where can it take me?

• The filmmaking industry is in a hugely exciting period covering a vast array sectors and outputs, and it doesn't seem to be slowing down any time soon.
• Our multi-skilled graduates go on to work in the creative industries for a range of media and multimedia production companies - as researchers, camera operators, editors, assistant directors/producers, mixers, graders and cinematographers.
• Others go on to further study on MA or doctoral research projects.

Study in a studio environment with professional-standard facilities and the focus on the real-world skills you need to succeed in your career

Why study graphic design?

• Graphic design makes a powerful contribution to the cultural and economic life of contemporary society.
• It exists in the public domain, acts as an indicator of current cultural thinking and is a catalyst for social, cultural and political change.
• The role of the graphic designer in society and the professional world is multifaceted; designer as curator, author, craftsperson, editor, educator, collaborator and agitator.
• Studying graphic design is excellent preparation for a creative career in the UK and abroad.

Why UWE Bristol?

• BA(Hons) Graphic Design is based at the Arnolfini, at the heart of Bristol's creative and cultural community. You'll learn from practising graphic designers in a professional studio environment.
• Past students have won awards in prestigious national competitions such as the Royal Society of Arts (RSA) Student Design Awards and the International Society of Typographic Designers (ISTD).
• In recent years, graduates' work has been exhibited at D&AD New Blood, London, with several being identified as 'Ones to Watch' and commendations received for several collaborative projects.
• Our students are also regularly shortlisted for the Best British Book Design and Production Awards.
• Our City Campus is a powerhouse of inspiration and collaboration, and home to our many City Creatives. It spans Bristol and is made up of Bower Ashton and renowned contemporary arts centres Spike Island, Arnolfini and Watershed.
• Our strong industry links with the thriving city of Bristol ensure ongoing input from professional designers, with extra mentoring support also on offer through the West of England Design Forum.
• You won't be working on hypothetical designs. Projects are socially and culturally relevant, whether undertaken inside or outside the university.
• Go on work placements and internships, or volunteer, to gain valuable workplace experience.
• Attend talks from studios like OK/RM, Pentagram, Moving Brands, Mother London, Muf, APFEL and Book Works.
• Showcase your work to talent scouts and potential employers at the final year Creative Industries Degree Show.
• Focus on the avenues that most interest you, and graduate with an impressive portfolio of work, ready to make your mark in the industry.

Where can it take me?

• This course prepares you for an idea-driven, sustainable and flexible freelance practice, or studio career in graphic design.
• Many of our graduates find work with highly respected design studios in the UK and worldwide.
• Others go on to further study, such as a master's in graphic design or graphic arts, or pursue a career in research or education.

Learn to create garments, accessories and textile collections for fashion and interiors through sustainably driven and digitally-enabled design.

Why study fashion textiles?

• Fashion and textiles are the UK's largest creative industries and are internationally renowned for quality and innovation.
• Today's fashion and textile designers are exploring new forms and materials and rethinking what fashion can be.

Why UWE Bristol?

• BA(Hons) Fashion Textiles teaches you about fashion textile design: from designing and manufacturing fabrics through to garments and fashion related products.
• Discover the disciplines of fashion design and traditional craftsmanship by making garments, accessories and other fashion products. Translate your ideas from 2D to 3D by building your pattern-cutting skills throughout the course. Explore and develop concepts using technologies including digital print, digital embroidery and smart textiles.
• Tailor your degree to your creative strengths by specializing in fashion design, textile design or fashion textile futures, allowing you to develop a unique pathway and identify a career path that suits your ambitions.
• Learn from visiting industry experts in the studios. Work closely with industry partners on live briefs and competitions, to apply your learning and gain real-world experience.
• Engage with research as you develop your design practice.
• Professional practice is key to this course and there are placement and project opportunities every year to help you develop your professional skills. All students have the opportunity to undertake a year out in industry as part of the course.
• Showcase and sell your design work at high profile national and international events such as New Designers and Premier Vision in Paris, the world's largest fashion textile trade show.
• Our City Campus is a creative powerhouse. It spans Bristol and is made up of Bower Ashton and renowned contemporary arts centres Spike Island, Arnolfini and Watershed.
• Focusing on the avenues that most interest you, through your modules and assessments, you'll explore different career paths and graduate with the confidence and skills to succeed.  

Where can it take me?

• Our students go on to work in industry, develop enterprise opportunities or explore further research at the postgraduate level. Whatever you want to do, our team of subject and employability experts will support you.
• Many of our graduates go on to successful careers with high profile companies like Alexander McQueen, Matthew Williamson, All Saints, Cos and Victoria Beckham.
• Choose from roles such as fashion designer, textile designer, studio manager, art director, product developer, pattern cutter and materials research.
• Follow UWE Fashion on Instagram.
• Read about some of our successes:
• UWE Bristol launches 2020 Fashion Enterprise project
• Fashion Textiles students awarded prestigious bursaries
• Fashion Textiles student wins a UWE Bristol Enterprise 'Try It' Award
• Fashion Textiles student works with couture tailor to create range of masks
• Take a look at how our graduates are changing the future of fashion.
• Read how three of our former students won prestigious bursaries from The Worshipful Company of Framework Knitters.
• Have a look at some of our students' latest work in our 2019 Graduate Showcase, as well as our 2019 Yearbook and 2020 Yearbook. See more by watching the film.

Develop strong production and research skills, hone in on your particular areas of interest, and carve out a niche as a digital creative media professional in a fast-paced sector.

Why study media production?

• Today's employers are in urgent need of graduates with skills in current practices in media, and can produce media content, with a particular focus on digital innovation and emerging technologies.
• Studying this subject will give you a broad overview of the industry, as you develop your skills in producing media across a range of formats and platforms from audio to video, and online to broadcasting alongside developing your writing and research capabilities.
• You'll learn to think critically and creatively about media, and graduate as a multi-skilled, flexible producer and communicator, in a strong position for building a media career.

Why UWE Bristol?

• BA(Hons) Media Communications is for students looking to build their creative media skills, by understanding and researching audiences, and communicating ideas effectively to them.
• You'll design your own projects and work with our external partners in Bristol's unique cultural and media industries to create a portfolio of work oriented to your chosen career.
• Study a mix of theory, production and research-based modules, and carry out coursework, developing your confidence through writing, research, production, project design and coordination.
• Develop enterprise skills and strong self-reliance, and gain the confidence and flexibility to adopt digital media innovations just over the horizon.
• The course is immersed in diverse industry collaborations that link students to the city's key creative media makers and cultural organizations, including Watershed, the Pervasive Media Studio, Bristol Festival of Ideas, the Arnolfini and M-Shed museums.
• Showcase your work to talent scouts and potential employers at the final year degree show, and focus on one of four specialist pathways, to reflect your interests and career plans.

Where can it take me?

• Your expertise in media production, alongside your practical, research and creative thinking skills, will give you the edge in roles as varied as web content production, podcasting and digital media management. You could become a digital media producer or broadcast journalist, or work in social media.
• There are opportunities to progress to courses like our MA Journalism, MA Journalism (Audio Docs and Podcasts), and associated MAs.