Birmingham City University United Kingdom

Feature Film Development

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The MA Feature Film Development at Birmingham City University is your gateway to mastering the crucial pre-production phase of major film projects. This postgraduate course is designed for aspiring directors, producers, screenwriters, and visual artists who aim to understand and excel in the complex process of preparing a film for investment and production. You will delve into the essential stages of story research, concept development, and strategic planning, gaining insights into how to navigate challenges and bring compelling narratives to the screen. This programme equips you with the specialised knowledge demanded by the international film industry.

You will engage in a rigorous, full-time, on-campus learning experience over one year, focusing on core modules such as Story Research and Concept, Story Development Planning, and a substantial Major Project. Optional modules allow you to tailor your studies, exploring areas like Film Festivals, Marketing and PR, or Digital Production in Practice. Throughout the course, you will develop practical skills and a strategic mindset, preparing you for roles in film development and production. You will graduate with a comprehensive understanding of the feature film pipeline, ready to contribute to the creation of impactful cinematic works.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This course explores the comprehensive process of feature film development, from initial concept generation and story research to detailed planning and execution. Students will engage in a major project, applying learned principles to bring a film idea to fruition. Optional modules offer specialized pathways in areas such as digital production, film festivals, marketing, and animation, allowing for tailored skill development within the broader context of filmmaking.

1 CORE MODULES

Story Research and Concept Compulsory 20 credits
Story Development Planning Compulsory 40 credits
Major Project Compulsory 60 credits

2 OPTIONAL MODULES

Digital Production in Practice 20 credits
Film Festivals, Marketing and PR 20 credits
Animation Asset Production 20 credits
Professional Animation Practice 40 credits
Film Marketing, Planning and Deployment 40 credits

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

16% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,617.00 USD 25,641.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 21,617.00 USD 25,641.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 607.00 - USD 1,191.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 3,222.00
Utilities & Bills USD 4,028.00 - USD 5,034.00
Estimated Total USD 8,056.00 - USD 11,278.00

Living cost estimates are based on Birmingham City Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

97%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Advertising & Media SalesAdvertising Finance & OperationsBrand ManagementDigital MarketingFilm & Television ProductionMarketing Analytics & Data ManagementMedia Planning & BuyingMuseums & Cultural HeritagePerformance & Growth MarketingSocial Media & Community Management

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Sky Group

YouTube

Why Study Feature Film Development at Birmingham City University

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Moderate Application response time

Birmingham City University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Birmingham City University in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Feature Film Development at Birmingham City University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks if enrolled in a degree course. No separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For TOEFL, you need a minimum overall score of 80, including specific subscores. IELTS requires an overall score of 6, with no individual score lower than 5.5.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Job titles include Director, Producer, Screenwriter, Concept Artist, and Production Designer.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course focuses on essential pre-production activities and how to prepare a film for investor pitches. You'll navigate the various stages of film development to avoid common pitfalls in the industry.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MA Feature Film Development course has an intake period in September. Make sure to apply before the deadline to secure your spot.
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