| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The MA in Documentary Practice at Dublin City University is a one-year postgraduate program that equips students with advanced skills in documentary filmmaking, including scriptwriting, camera operation, sound recording, and editing. Combining hands-on production experience with theoretical and analytical study, the program prepares students for professional careers in the film and television industry. Graduates are well-equipped for roles as directors, producers, sound recordists, editors, and researchers.
Program Outline
MA in Documentary Practice at Dublin City University
Degree Overview:
The MA in Documentary Practice is a one-year postgraduate program offered by the School of Communications at Dublin City University (DCU). This program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the dynamic field of documentary filmmaking. It combines hands-on production experience with theoretical and analytical study, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the documentary genre.
Objectives:
- Develop advanced skills in documentary filmmaking, including scriptwriting, camera operation, sound recording, and editing.
- Enhance critical thinking and analytical skills through the study of documentary theory and history.
- Foster creativity and originality in documentary storytelling.
- Prepare students for professional careers in the film and television industry.
Program Description:
The MA in Documentary Practice is designed to be a practical and immersive experience. Students will participate in intensive production workshops, learn from experienced professionals, and have access to state-of-the-art equipment. The program's curriculum covers various aspects of documentary filmmaking, including:
- Documentary History and Theory: Students will explore the evolution of documentary filmmaking and engage with critical debates surrounding the genre.
- Cinematography and Editing: Students will gain hands-on experience in camera operation, lighting, and editing techniques.
- Sound Recording and Design: Students will learn the fundamentals of sound recording and design for documentary production.
- Storytelling and Scriptwriting: Students will develop their creative writing skills and learn techniques for effective storytelling in documentary formats.
- Research and Interviewing: Students will learn how to conduct research, interview subjects, and gather information for their documentary projects.
- Project Development and Production: Students will work in teams to develop and produce their own documentary projects, culminating in a capstone dissertation.
Other:
The program also features a unique Masterclass Series, where students learn from renowned documentary filmmakers and industry experts.
Additionally, Pitching Sessions provide students with an opportunity to present their documentary projects to commissioned editors and receive valuable feedback.
Outline:
Structure:
The MA in Documentary Practice is a full-time program delivered over one academic year. Students typically spend one full day per week on campus for intensive production workshops and lectures.
Course Schedule:
The program's schedule is designed to provide students with a balance of theoretical and practical learning. Each week, students will participate in a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and individual production work.
Modules:
The MA in Documentary Practice consists of various modules covering different aspects of documentary filmmaking. Examples of modules include:
- Documentary History and Theory
- Documentary Filmmaking Techniques
- Sound Design for Documentary
- Cinematography for Documentary
- Research and Interviewing
- Documentary Project Development
- Documentary Dissertation
Individual Module Descriptions:
Detailed descriptions of each module are available on the DCU website.
Assessment:
The MA in Documentary Practice utilizes various assessment methods to evaluate students' learning outcomes. These methods include:
- Individual coursework assignments
- Practical production exercises
- Group projects
- Final capstone dissertation
Assessment Criteria:
The specific assessment criteria will vary depending on the module and assessment method. However, general criteria include:
- Demonstrating understanding of key concepts and theoretical frameworks
- Applying knowledge and skills to practical production tasks
- Creative and original storytelling
- Technical proficiency
- Research and critical analysis skills
Teaching:
The MA in Documentary Practice is taught by a team of experienced academics and industry professionals. The program's faculty includes:
- Tom Burke: An accomplished documentary filmmaker with numerous awards and international recognition.
- Dragana Jurišić: A multi-award-winning photographer and documentary maker whose work is exhibited in prestigious institutions.
- Andreas Aurelio Rauh: A sound designer and field recordist with extensive experience in the audio industry.
Teaching Methods:
The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Interactive lectures
- Hands-on workshops
- Individual and group supervision
- Guest lectures by industry professionals
- Masterclasses
Careers:
Graduates of the MA in Documentary Practice are well-equipped for careers in various fields within the audio-visual industry. Potential career paths include:
- Sound recordist
- Camera operator
- Director
- Television producer
- Radio producer
- Researcher
- Editor
- Sound editor
- In-house communications
- Public Service
Career Opportunities:
The program prepares students for leadership roles in production teams or independent filmmaking careers. They are also equipped to pursue careers in various media organizations, including television channels, radio stations, and online platforms.
Other:
The program is committed to providing students with access to state-of-the-art facilities. This includes a recently constructed media studio equipped with industry-standard cameras, sound recording equipment, and editing tools. Additionally, the program actively promotes external engagement through participation in:
- Masterclass Series: Connecting students with leading industry professionals.
- Pitching Sessions: Providing opportunities to present projects to commissioned editors.
- Festival Participation: Showcasing student projects at the prestigious Irish Film Institute Documentary Festival. This immersive and practical approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared for success in the ever-evolving world of documentary filmmaking.
Full time EU Status Fee 7,900 Non EU Fee. 15,700
Dublin City University (DCU)
Overview:
Dublin City University (DCU) is a leading young university in Ireland, committed to transforming lives and societies through education, research, and innovation. It focuses on delivering real impact and addressing global challenges in collaboration with partners and stakeholders.
Services Offered:
DCU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
Student Advice and Learning Skills Centre (SAL) provides guidance on academic matters, learning skills, and international student support.Student Support & Development:
Counselling & Personal Development, Student Health Service, Financial Assistance Service, Chaplaincy, House of Accessibility, and Disability & Learning Support Service.Career Services:
Careers Service assists students with career planning, job searching, and internship opportunities.Student Life:
DCU Students Union provides a platform for student engagement through clubs, societies, and events.Accommodation:
DCU Accommodation offers on-campus housing options for students.Research:
DCU is renowned for its research activities, with dedicated offices and institutes focusing on various fields.Global Engagement:
DCU Global promotes international collaborations and opportunities for students and staff.Student Life and Campus Experience:
DCU offers a vibrant campus experience with a diverse student body representing 135 nationalities. Students can participate in various clubs and societies, engage in social events, and enjoy the facilities of the campus, including The Helix, a performing arts venue.
Key Reasons to Study There:
High Graduate Employment Rate:
DCU is ranked #1 in Ireland for Graduate Employment Rate and #23 globally.World-Class Research:
DCU is recognized for its cutting-edge research, contributing to positive societal transformation.INTRA Work Placement:
80% of DCU courses offer INTRA, providing paid, relevant work experience or work placement opportunities.Diverse and Inclusive Campus:
DCU fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment for students from all backgrounds.Strong Academic Programs:
DCU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various faculties.Academic Programs:
DCU has six faculties:
- DCU Business School
- DCU Institute of Education
- Faculty of Engineering & Computing
- Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences
- Faculty of Science & Health
- DCU Connected
Each faculty offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, with strengths in areas like business, education, engineering, humanities, social sciences, science, and health.
Other:
DCU has three academic campuses:
- St. Patrick's Campus
- Glasnevin Campus
- All Hallows Campus
The university also has a strong commitment to sustainability and has implemented various initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.
Entry Requirements:
EU Home Students:
- A minimum of a second class honours, grade two primary degree (Level 8) or equivalent professional qualification.
- A portfolio of previous work (this does not have to be to a professional standard, but should demonstrate basic familiarity with either video, photographic or aural story-telling)
- OR a written proposal for a documentary project (video, photographic or audio), outlining the objectives, style and intended audience for the production.
International Overseas Students:
- Educational qualifications of a standard equivalent to those outlined above.
- Non-native speakers of the English language must satisfy the University's competency in the language, with a minimum score of IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- Non-native speakers of the English language must satisfy the University's competency in the language, with a minimum score of IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.
Additional Notes:
- Applicants with appropriate combinations of professional qualifications and experience may also be considered.
- Transfer from related Level 9 programmes in DCU or other third-level institutions is subject to having fulfilled educational qualifications of a standard equivalent to those outlined above.
