View all Courses
Film and Media Production
Bachelor of Arts (Honours)
Course Details
CAO Code | AU332 |
---|---|
Level | 8 |
Duration | 4 Years |
CAO Points | NEW |
Method of Delivery | On-campus |
Campus Locations | Donegal – Letterkenny |
Mode of Delivery | Full Time |
Work placement | Yes |
Course Overview
Our Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Film & Media Production is designed for anyone passionate about a Digital Film and Video industry career. It can open up fantastic career options in one of the most exciting creative industries and a future in television and film.
This programme is designed to cater to emerging opportunities across the film and media sector in digital film production planning, story and script, audio, design, special effects, compositing and editing. An enterprise and entrepreneurship ethos is embedded in modules. This programme engages traditional and emerging practices to cater for the needs of the film and media industry. Self-directed practice will be a key component across several modules focusing on audience and market.
Studying film and media production provides hands-on experience in storytelling, cinematography & digital editing, preparing students for diverse careers in the entertainment industry. Graduates emerge multi-skilled and often find employment with film, media and design companies in diverse roles across pre and post-production.
Students can take an Erasmus+ semester abroad as part of this degree.
Applications to this programme were previously made through AU330 BA (Hons) in Design (Common Entry), which is now closed for application. Applicants can now apply directly to each speciality stream and still enjoy the benefits of a common entry start. Students study common modules and have the flexibility to amend their area of specialisation after their first semester of study, subject to space availability. The design based programmes available for entry in Donegal are;
Course Details
Year 1
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Visual EnquiryThis module aims to develop the students creativity and visual awareness. Students will discover how practical tasks relate to contemporary design practice- Graphics, Film, Fashion and Animation. Module tasks and projects will encourage learners to think creatively, and experience a range of tools, materials and processes. Practical tasks and projects will involve theme-based investigation, design reference, observational and analytical recording. Learning Outcomes 1. Observe and record information using a variety of media |
10 | Mandatory |
1 |
Communications & Creative ProcessThis module emphasises the need for students to utilise the creative process in all areas of their practice. It requires the development of significant research, writing and presentation skills, and challenges students to constantly justify and communicate their creative decisions in a rigorous and professional manner. Students will apply the creative process to a brief that addresses a non-discipline-specific challenge. Students will be asked to communicate through frequent written and oral rationales for their decisions, and they will participate in self, peer, and mentor assessment activities. Class activities will include group work. Learning Outcomes 1. Through exercises and discussions, demonstrate each stage of the Creative Process |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Art & Design History 1This module explores key movements in the development of art, design and visual culture from the 19th & early 2oth centuries. It explores the complex factors that shaped visual culture as it embraced modernity and the radical pioneers whose innovative work would prove to be critical to this evolution. A wide variety of visual practices will be examined to provide a comprehensive insight into the creative arts as they emerged in the Modern era. Learning Outcomes 1. Distinguish and explain key movements in the history of art, design and visual culture in the 19th & early 20th centuries |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Programme FundamentalsThis module introduces the learner to the fundamentals of the four design and creative media programme disciplines: Animation, Fashion with Promotion, Film & Media Production, and Graphic Design & Illustration. By the end of the module, they will have engaged with all four disciplines and be able to make an informed choice as to which discipline they wish to pursue. Learning Outcomes 1. Apply a range of creative techniques across a number of disciplines. |
10 | Mandatory |
2 |
Sound Recording, Mixing & ProductionThis module aims to introduce students to the theory and practice of sound recording, mixing and production. The delivery will comprise a blended approach of seminar, demonstration, workshop and critique. The module will culminate in the presentation by the learners of a portfolio of recordings accompanied by a thorough account. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify and differentiate the types of equipment used in the recording and mixing of sound |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Cinematography 1This module introduces learners to the theory and practice of Cinematography as established by the pioneers of filmmaking. Learning Outcomes 1. Deliniate between shots from the standard shot classification. |
10 | Mandatory |
2 |
Music VideoThis module aims to develop the students understanding of the context and historical background, as well as practical experience in music video. Learning Outcomes 1. Articulate a history and development of music video. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Art & Design History 2This module explores key movements in the development of art, design and visual culture from the 1940s until the present day. It assesses the impact of consumerism and popular culture on the arts as well as the challenges to Modernism that emerged at this time. The role of the media in shaping cultural expression and the expansion of the language and forms of the visual arts will also be studied. Finally, contemporary visual culture will be examined and the impact of globalisation and digital technologies will be introduced. Learning Outcomes 1. Distinguish and explain key movements in the history of art, design and visual culture in the 20th & 21st centuries |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Storytelling and Scripting 1This module is designed to provide students with the fundamentals in narrative storytelling and scriptwriting conventions. With a focus on creating visual and cinematic scripts, students will analyse the structure and form of industry-standard films (both feature and short) and television shows. This will provide them with the technical knowledge necessary to write high-quality scripts of their own. Furthermore, students will be introduced to the basics of narrative storytelling, specifically linear and non-linear, so they can apply these principals to their own creative works. There will also be an examination of how these narratives can be used to create unique stories for the digital age. Learning Outcomes 1. Understand the differences between narrative, story and plot |
05 | Mandatory |
Year 2
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Ambient & Foley Production SoundThis module deals with the historical background, context and use of ambient, Foley and production sound in film / media. The students will also gain practical experience in the design and application of film / media incorporating sound. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss in detail the historical background to sound in film. |
10 | Mandatory |
1 |
Cinematography 2This module introduces learners to the fundamentals of Cinematography and film editing. They will explore the “five C’s of cinematography” — Composition, camera angles, continuity, close-ups and cutting. They will learn how to edit their footage into a coherent narrative. Learning Outcomes 1. Compose, block and stage a scene |
10 | Mandatory |
1 |
Storytelling and Scripting 2This module is designed to bolster the knowledge and skills gained in Storytelling and Scripting 1. As well as re-examining the structure and form of industry-standard films (both feature and short) and television shows, this module will also focus on documentaries, games and other forms of digital media that require storytelling and scripting. More complex scriptwriting techniques, including writing treatments, will be introduced to encourage students to experiment with their own creative content. Furthermore, students will be introduced to new and more abstract forms of storytelling, so they can apply these principals to their own creative works. There will be an emphasis on the importance of multiple drafts, so students can understand the value and necessity in refining creative works. Students will also have to pitch their story ideas, and argue for the decisions they have made along their writing journey. This will provide students with the knowledge and skills required for the creative industries, as well as preparing them for critical self-refection; this will be useful for their continued growth as writers and creatives. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the conventions of writing in a particular medium (films, documentaries, sitcoms etc.) |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Early Film HistoryThis module introduces the learner to the history and development of the language of film from its inception up to the end of World War 2. Learning Outcomes 1. Articulate a history and critical awareness of the language of film from is inception to the late 1940s. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Post-Production 1The Post-production 1 module explores the various processes and techniques used in the post-production phase of filming. Learners will learn how to process various footage types, colour correct and colour grade their footage and use chromakeying solutions to isolate their subjects for compositing. They will also learn how to use clean plates and masking to make composites. Learners will record audio externally and sync to their footage. They will carry out projects and exercises which will demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of these processes. They will also develop an awareness of the history and context of post-production through the critiques of exemplars from Film and Media. Learning Outcomes 1. Process LOG footage and use LUTs |
10 | Mandatory |
2 |
Cinematography 3This module focuses the learners in the theory and practice of Cinematography used in studio and field simulated live and multi-cam productions. Learning Outcomes 1. Articulate the issues pertaining to studio and field video production. |
10 | Mandatory |
2 |
Documentary FilmmakingThis module develops the learners knowledge and practice of documentary filmmaking. Learning Outcomes 1. Articulate the history and context of documentary film. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
20th Century Film and TV HistoryThis module discusses the history and development of the language of film and TV from the end of World War 2 to 1970. Learning Outcomes 1. Develop a critical awareness of the development of the language of film & TV from the end of World War 2 to the mid 1970s. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year 3
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Post-Production 2This module builds on the processes and techniques learned in Post Production 1. Learners will explore more advanced compositing techniques using multiple layers, compositions and blending modes. They will learn how to control the virtual camera in 3d space and how to create and employ visual effects and recognise when and where to use them. They will study and research the use of film titles and apply this knowledge in creating their own. Learning Outcomes 1. Employ multi-layer compositing techniques |
10 | Mandatory |
1 |
Cinematography 4This module develops the learners theory and practice of Cinematography used in experimental film and incorporating the latest tools for cinematographers. Learning Outcomes 1. Articulate the history and context of experimental film. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Interactive Audio VideoThis module deals with mainly the design of audio / video content that is, or can be used in interactive audio & video systems, such as interactive installations. Learners will engage with a human centered approach to problem solving. There will be scope within the module to allow for individual students to specialise in the technical / functionality aspect of interactive audio & video, if that is their preference. The history and context of interactive audio / video will be dealt with. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss in detail the historical background and context of interactive audio & video. |
10 | Mandatory |
1 |
Modern Film History & TheoryThis module deals with the development of film language from 19 to the the mid 1960's to 2010, as well as articulating relevant theoretical aspects of late 20th century film. Learning Outcomes 1. Develop a critical awareness of the development of the language of film & TV from the end of World War 2 to circa 2010. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Film ProjectLearners will implement a wide range of film related disciplines to produce a short piece demonstrating proficiency and innovation in approach. Students will show an ability to conceptualise and produce film and to discuss and critically reflect on the outcome. Learning Outcomes 1. Formulate a self directed design brief |
15 | Mandatory |
2 |
Professional Practice in the Creative IndustriesThe creative industries provide many and varied types of employment. This module offers students the opportunity to 'think forward' about their future career. They will study the characteristics of their particular creative sector (film, fashion, graphics, animation, photography) and become familiar with the challenges faced by businesses operating within it. They will reflect on their own position within their industry and create professional materials for self-promotion. Learning Outcomes 1. Recognise the characteristics of their industry and demonstrate knowledge of industry sectors and structures |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Contemporary TheoryThis module critically examines the intersections between visual culture and digital media and the extent to which media form is shaping communication and creative production. It interrogates the cultural and theoretical conditions that have given rise to digital behaviours that both challenge cultural orthodoxies and unleash new creative possibilities for practitioners and audiences. Learning Outcomes 1. Articulate a thorough understanding of the historical, theoretical, and cultural conditions that shape creative production and reception in the digital age |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Event & Promotional Filming / PlacementThis module offers the learners a choice on whether to go on short spells of work placement with film / video professionals, or to film events and promotional material related to the university such as conference’s, concerts, workshops. Learning Outcomes 1. Articulate the current state of the film / video industry locally, nationally and globally. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year 4
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Industry/Competition ProjectThis module allows the student to experience the pace of working in the creative industries through working on a variety of live industry and competition project briefs. Learners will demonstrate their skills and identify their strengths in their chosen field. Learning Outcomes 1. Pitch and present project work to a professional standard |
10 | Mandatory |
1 |
Final Project (Pre-Production & Process)In this module students of Film and Animation will initiate the conception, research and development of a project proposal, which will form the basis for their major project. Graphic and UX design will use advanced skills to interrogate how communication is evolving in the age of connected devices and social media. Fashion with Promotion will explore a range of technical advancement and social conscience which now inform the industry. The module affords students the opportunity to investigate the historical, theoretical, technical and cultural frameworks shaping their chosen field of study. They will be expected to seek out exemplars of professional practices and reflect on their own practice, and personal objectives for enhancing future progression. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate enhanced critical, conceptual, and technical skills in the generation and progression of a self-initiated project |
10 | Mandatory |
1 |
Research & DissertationLearners will propose, research and write a 6,000 word dissertation on an area of visual culture identified in consultation with the tutor. This will normally have been developed and presented as an initial proposal in semester 6. The dissertation must be the candidate’s own work and show evidence of significant independent research and a thorough knowledge of their field of study. Learning Outcomes 1. Select, evaluate and manage independent research demonstrating substantial engagement with the relevant contextual domain for their area of study |
10 | Mandatory |
2 |
Major ProjectThis module follows on from the Pre-Production & Process module and pushes the learner into full production of an individual Major project in their chosen field of study. This module allows the learner to apply their creative and technical skills in the production of a substantial body of work. Learning Outcomes 1. Formulate a self-initiated design brief |
25 | Mandatory |
2 |
Creativity and Creative EnterpriseThe creative industries, a sector founded on creative endeavour and creative enterprise, are the subject of theoretical and policy debate within Ireland and internationally. They provide employment opportunities to many graduates. This module encourages students to explore how creativity operates at a personal and organisational level and to become familiar with the employment landscape. Students work across disciplines to gain insights into the creative industries and their specific place within them. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss creativity theory in relation to themselves and to creative enterprise |
05 | Mandatory |
Progression
Download a prospectus
Entry Requirements
Leaving Certificate Entry Requirement | 6 subjects at O6/H7 2 subjects at H5 English or Irish at O6/H7 Maths not required |
QQI/FET Major Award Required | Any |
Additional QQI/FET/ Requirements | 3 Distinctions |
Advanced Entry
Applications are welcome for entry to stage 2 of a programme at ATU, following completion of a cognate QQI FET Level 6 Major award.
Transfers into years two, three or four are also welcome from those who have completed learning in a cognate area in another Higher-Level Institute (HEI).
Testimonial
There are so many different pathways for filmmakers – whether it’s setting up on your own on a freelance basis, screenwriting, or moving into film production and working on sets for film or TV. The course lays the foundations for this, and it’s really up to the students to find their own pathway. Many of us from our class went down different routes following graduation. I continued straight into a Masters by Research, which I attained by means of a scholarship with ATU. Alongside my academic pursuits, I freelance as a filmmaker and photographer and have been involved in some great projects locally.
Ruth Keogh , BA in Film and Media Production
Fees
Total Fees EU: €3000
This annual student contribution charge is subject to change by Government. Additional tuition fees may apply. Click on the link below for more information on fees, grants and scholarships.
Total Fees Non-EU: €12000
Subject to approval by the ATU Governing Body (March 2025).
Further information on feesCareers
Film and Media Production opportunities include pre-production designer, on-location film crew member (camera/sound), post-production editor, special effects producer, and independent film/ video producer.
Further Information
Contact Information
Lorna Ross
Head of Department
T: +353 (0)74 9186135
E: lorna.ross@atu.ie
Design & Creative Media