MA Wildlife Filmmaking

Program Overview

UWE Bristol's MA Wildlife Filmmaking program, co-designed with BBC Natural History Unit professionals, equips students with the skills to capture the natural world through compelling storytelling, camera work, and production management. The program emphasizes practical production experience, industry knowledge, and the development of a strong portfolio, preparing graduates for entry-level roles in the wildlife production industry.

Program Outline

Wildlife Filmmaking - MA - UWE Bristol

Degree Overview:

UWE Bristol's MA Wildlife Filmmaking is a postgraduate program co-designed with BBC Natural History Unit (NHU) professionals. It equips students with the skills needed to capture the natural world through compelling storytelling, camera work, sound, editing, and production management. The program aims to produce graduates ready for entry-level roles in the wildlife production industry.

Objectives:

• Develop creative skills and specialist knowledge for entry-level roles in wildlife production.
• Master storytelling, film production techniques, and production management.
• Gain industry knowledge through engagement with BBC NHU professionals.
• Develop a strong portfolio of wildlife filmmaking projects.

Outline:

Content:

The course is practical and production-based, focusing on developing film narratives, mastering production processes, preparing for production, and completing a final film project.

Structure:

• Creating the Story (Semester 1): Develops film narratives and storytelling conventions.
• Mastering the Business (Semester 1): Introduces production processes, post-production, and the commercial landscape of natural history shows.
• Preparing for Production (Semester 2): Editorial development and production management in preparation for the final film project.
• Professional Production: Final planning, filming, and post-production of a short film project.

Modules:

• Creating the Story:
• Develop film narratives and storytelling techniques.
• Explore film conventions used in wildlife documentaries.
• Engage in discussions and written work to refine film ideas.
• Mastering the Business:
• Understand production processes, including post-production and production management.
• Gain knowledge of the commercial landscape for natural history shows.
• Analyze current trends and opportunities in the industry.
• Preparing for Production:
• Complete editorial development and production management for the final film project.
• Professional Production:
• Execute final film project, including filming, post-production, and delivery.
• Collaborate with crew members and manage production logistics.
• Submit final film project with industry-standard paperwork.

Assessment:

Assessment methods include portfolios of work, films, production elements, and the final film project.

• Informal sessions with BBC and independent production companies.
• Guest lectures and seminars at Arnolfini and Watershed in Bristol city center.
• Individual project supervision and tutorials.

Teaching Staff:

The program is taught by experienced academics and professionals from the wildlife filmmaking industry. The BBC NHU provides guest speakers and mentors for the final film project.

Careers:

Graduates are qualified for entry-level roles in the wildlife production industry, including:

• Assistant Producer
• Production Assistant
• Researcher
• Camera Operator
• Sound Recordist
• Editor
Many graduates secure positions with BBC and independent production companies in Bristol, the UK, and internationally.

Other:

• Program is offered full-time only, running from September to late October.
• Tuition fee for UK students is £12,000.
• Tuition fee for international students is £17,250.
• Program deadline for applications is February 14th.
• Bristol is a vibrant city known for its creative industries and thriving film production sector.

Conclusion:

UWE Bristol's MA Wildlife Filmmaking program offers a unique opportunity to learn from industry professionals and develop the skills necessary for a successful career in wildlife filmmaking. The program's practical focus, strong industry connections, and emphasis on creativity and storytelling make it a valuable option for aspiring wildlife filmmakers.

| Course Type | Fees | |---|---| | Full time course | | Home Award Fee | £12000 | | Home Module Fee (15 Credit) | £1000 | | International Award Fee | £17250 | | International Module Fee (15 Credit) | £1438 | | Offshore Award Fee | £17250 | | Offshore Module Fee (15 Credit) | £1438 |