Student Communications Ambassador, Mackenzie Dowding, explores what it means to be a Film, Television and Digital Production student at Bath Spa.
Film, Television and Digital Production is an exciting and varied course that lets you explore many different areas of the industry. The past two years for me have been amazing, so I thought I’d share with you some of my experience, and what life studying Film and TV at Bath Spa is like.
No ordinary degree
The course is by no means a normal degree. While there are often essays that need to be completed, you aren’t in lectures all week. Even if you’re on campus, the sessions are more interactive and longer. The staff members aren't talking for the length of the session, they'll explain the tasks for the day and then support you as you complete those tasks. Whether that be filming, editing or using the studio equipment, you'll be supported as you learn this yourself. As you progress, the focus will be more on team work but staff will be there to support you throughout.
Between the timetabled sessions, there'll be a large amount of work to complete. This could include reading, but also could be filming and editing elements of your short films, creating scripts or other resources for the studio, and other preparations. This is great as it feels less like work and more like you're creating something as you might in the workplace. The longer sessions through the week, usually one per module, mean that content is not rushed and you're able to get into more depth, which I prefer over shorter lectures.
Access to the TV studio
For me, working in the television studios is the highlight of the course. Our two studios are industry standard, with up to 4 HD cameras on free moving stands called pedestals and a control room called the Gallery. You'll have around three hours a week in the studio where you'll be taught how to use the equipment and then spend time using it. Rather than focusing on theory, you're thrown in the deep end to start making shows in the studio. This is great because the best way to learn is to do it yourself. You need practice as well as theory.
In your single camera modules (for example, short films and documentaries), you'll have another three hour session a week where you'll learn how to use the equipment. You'll also learn the theory of film, and then with support from the staff, create a film or documentary (depending on the module) in teams. Almost every part of this course is collaborative, which is another thing I love.
There are also loads of other interesting modules, such as learning about the theory of television, how to create digital effects, screenwriting, audio, and more. The course is very varied, which allows you to work out what you want to do, and then slowly hone in on the area you want to specialise in the future.
On location
One of the great things about studying at Bath Spa is that often when you need to film something, the location can be found on campus. The beautiful Newton Park campus has a large lake and lakeside walk, along with woodland areas. There are historical Georgian buildings, a castle, as well as the modern Commons building. And if you can’t find it on campus, you’ll definitely be able to find it in the city of Bath.
Variety, experience and academia
If you’re joining us in September, or are thinking of coming to the university soon, then you’ll have an amazing time on the course. No two days are the same, and you’ll be creating films, TV shows and more that you’ll be very, very proud of.