MA Production Management for TV, Film and Digital Media

Program Overview

The MA Production Management for TV, Film and Digital Media at the University of Salford equips students with practical skills and industry experience for careers in production management. The program emphasizes creative problem-solving, people management, and workflow analysis, preparing graduates for roles as Production Managers, Directors, and Line Producers. With strong industry links and state-of-the-art facilities, the program offers a comprehensive and immersive learning experience.

Program Outline

MA Production Management for TV, Film and Digital Media

Degree Overview

This Master's program at the University of Salford prepares students for careers in Production Management within the TV, Film, and Digital Media industries. The program emphasizes practical skills through industry experience in planning, organizing, and executing TV productions across documentary, studio, and drama genres. Students gain hands-on experience in workflow analysis and management, developing key skills in creative problem-solving and people management. Located in the heart of MediaCityUK, the program offers numerous opportunities to network with industry professionals through seminars, masterclasses, and industry-aligned projects. The program boasts strong links with BBC, ITV, True North, Dock 10, and many other UK-based high-profile production companies. The program's objectives include:

• Equipping students with the necessary skills, attributes, and competencies for success in production and post-production industries.
• Developing creative, critical, and analytical thinking skills at the Master's level, informed by current industry practice.
• Enhancing understanding of professional frameworks, collaborative working practices, and fostering creative problem-solving and team leadership skills.

Outline

The program structure consists of:

• Four taught modules covering various aspects of production management.
Students learn to manage complex productions with larger teams filming in diverse locations. They also utilize the BAFTA carbon calculator to predict and manage their production's carbon footprint.

Semester Two:

• Production Management for Studio: This module emphasizes workflow management in a studio context and equips students with the skills to produce magazine program content using different filming formats, including negotiation with facilities and talent management.
• Creative Entrepreneurial Practice: This module provides students with an in-depth understanding of people management and leadership strategies within an authentic industry environment.
They undertake live briefs from industry professionals, forming teams to deliver projects and manage production workflows.

Semester Three:

• Major Project: Practice Research Project or Dissertation: This culminating module allows students to showcase their theoretical and practical skills.
It offers the opportunity to conduct research and demonstrate creative, technical, and critical abilities through self-directed projects that contribute to the field of contemporary media practice. The program employs a variety of teaching and learning settings, including:
• Lectures
• Seminars and workshops
• Tutorials
• Situated learning (live projects)
• Independent and online learning

Assessment

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Formative assessments, such as essays, presentations, and practical exercises
• Summative assessments, such as exams, projects, and dissertations
• Continuous assessment through participation and engagement in class

Teaching

The program boasts a team of experienced lecturers with extensive backgrounds in drama, documentary, and studio production. The program enjoys strong links with the industry, with guest lectures and live briefs delivered by professionals from ITV, BBC, True North, Nine Lives, and Blakeway North. The teaching approach emphasizes active learning, encouraging students to take ownership of their learning and develop independent study skills. This fosters critical self-reflection through self-directed projects where students negotiate learning and assessment requirements.

Careers

Graduates of the program are equipped for careers as:

• Production Managers
• Directors
• Line Producers
• Other roles in film, television, and digital media industries
The program boasts a strong track record of employment success, with graduates working as Production Coordinators and fast-tracked towards Production Manager roles. Some graduates also pursue careers in related fields like event management, education, community development, and enterprise.

Other

The program benefits from state-of-the-art facilities at MediaCityUK, including a 5-camera HD TV studio, a 3-camera HD TV studio, a digital performance studio with green screen capability, two radio studios, and a 5.1 surround sound audio post-production theatre. The tuition fees for full-time UK students in 2024/25 are £8,820, while international students pay £16,380 per year. Part-time fees are calculated based on a pro rata basis. The program offers enrolment in September 2024 and 2025. Applications are submitted online, and potential students are encouraged to showcase relevant experience, skills, and genuine interest in the field.

Full-time home 2024/25 £8,820.00per year Full-time international 2024/25 £16,380.00per year Part-time 2024/25 Part time fees are calculated on a pro rata basis Full-time home 2025/26 £9,100.00per year Full-time international 2025/26 £17,000.00per year Part-time 2025/26 Part time fees are calculated on a pro rata basis