Experimental Film MA

The Experimental Film MA offers a unique opportunity for filmmakers to develop a major body of practical work that:

engages with the moving image in the context of a critical understanding of contemporary experimental film theory and visual culture; and
is set within a highly distinctive and successful range of postgraduate courses delivered within the School of Fine Art.
The course covers a broad range of experimental film practices, theories and technologies. Based on principles that reflect the evolving nature of current and emerging practices, it equips you with the ability to play a positive role in the fast-moving arena of moving image making. It encompasses:

a broad range of approaches to moving image work - recognising that filmmakers increasingly explore the medium in unexpected and innovative ways, finding outlets for their work in a range of capacities and organisations;
a thorough critical understanding of experimental film, including critical and historical frameworks - through self-initiated research supported by taught modules and research-active staff;
a thorough understanding of the inter-related forms of moving image production, experimental cinematic work and artists' film culture; and
the opportunity to create interdisciplinary alliances and work in a variety of environments - by working alongside colleagues on other courses in the School of Fine Art, both individually and collaboratively.

The core skills that you will learn on this programme will prepare you for work within the wide field of artists' moving image and independent film and video. You will also learn transferable practical and critical skills that will prepare you for work in the wider cultural field, and for further study.

This MA will prepare you for:

Self-employment as an artist, filmmaker or other cultural practitioner.
Employment within the field of artists' moving image production, distribution and curating.
Further study. The programme has been very successful at placing graduates in highly specific research environments, practice-based and theoretical research programmes.

Participants are admitted through formal University application and contact with the director of studies.

Each applicant is expected to provide a showreel or portfolio and statement, developing their reasons for applying to the programme. They are subsequently invited to visit the campus for an informal meeting, or can provide and answer any supplementary questions relative to their application. Please note that there is no formal interview for this course.

The entry decision is made through portfolio (showreel) and personal statement.