We believe in creative storytelling and experimentation. We support a wide range of screen-based work which includes:

• fiction
• documentary
• drama
• experimental film
• hybrid film

On this programme, we will encourage you to:

• be inquisitive and questioning
• challenge convention and develop new approaches to filmmaking
• expand your understanding of film form and film contexts.

We do not just teach ‘how’ to push a button but ‘why’ to press it.

Through short films and creative exercises, we nurture work that questions norms and pushes the boundaries of filmmaking. These experiences will help you:

• find your own creative identities, voice and specialisation
• develop skills that will help you find work in the film and creative industries
• graduate with a clear sense of your own filmmaking practice and professional goals

By the time you graduate, you will have created a portfolio of short films in different roles. This helps you explore how every aspect of film and every role within a crew can be a means of creative expression.

We work as a film community supporting collaboration across the degree year groups. We also encourage interdisciplinary collaboration with other departments at ECA and celebrate the opportunities of studying film in an art school.

Our programme ethos is about nurturing your imagination, curiosity, and collaboration, which is underpinned by a professional and highly practical skillset.

Our students successfully enter into a rapidly evolving industry in a wide range of creative and technical roles, secure traineeships, and often work independently as freelancers.

We boast a vibrant alumni network and strong links with the cultural and creative sector across Scotland and beyond. Their work regularly wins awards.

Professional practice is woven into all our courses from Year 1 to ensure your career prospects are enhanced. 

Careers Service

Our Careers Service can help you to fully develop your potential and achieve your future goals.

The Careers Service supports you not only while you are studying at the University, but also for up to two years after you finish your studies.

With the Careers Service, you can:

• access digital resources to help you understand your skills and strengths
• try different types of experiences and reflect on how and what you develop
• get help finding work, including part-time jobs, vacation work, internships and graduate jobs
• attend careers events and practice interviews
• get information and advice to help you make informed decisions

Visit the Careers Service website

Further study

After you complete your programme, you may want to go onto further study at Edinburgh or a different university. You could progress to:

• a masters degree
• a postgraduate diploma or certificate
• a PhD
• a second undergraduate degree

Find out about options for further study 

Postgraduate degrees you might be interested in could include:

• Film Directing
• Design
• Art

If you'd like to study on an undergraduate programme at Edinburgh College of Art, you must apply through UCAS, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. You can find out how to do this on the University of Edinburgh Degree Finder, where you'll also be able to

• see the structure of the programme and what you will study each year
• see detailed entrance requirements for each programme on the Degree Finder
• get information on what to expect after you apply
• find out about fees
• find out where to go for further advice and guidance.

If you have any questions about the application process, your qualifications or deadlines, our Undergraduate Admissions Office will be happy to help you.

Email the Undergraduate Admissions Office: futurestudents@ed.ac.uk

You need to submit a digital portfolio to show your artistic skill and potential. 

The portfolio guidance for 2026 entry will be released in August 2025.