Explore the best UK universities for Film Production in 2026. These institutions combine strong academic programs with vibrant creative communities to help you make your mark in the industry.
Best Universities for Film Studies: Unifresher Student Rankings 2026
The top universities earn Gold, Silver, and Bronze badges based on student satisfaction, graduate employability, teaching quality, and value for money. For full details, see our Ranking Methodology below.
| Rank | University | Academic | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Gold | University of Edinburgh | 90 | 84 |
| 2 Silver | University of Glasgow | 88 | 82 |
| 3 Bronze | University of Manchester | 85 | 86 |
| 4 | King’s College London | 83 | 79 |
| 5 | University of Leeds | 82 | 81 |
| 6 | University of Sussex | 81 | 83 |
| 7 | University of Bristol | 79 | 80 |
| 8 | Goldsmiths, University of London | 77 | 78 |
| 9 | University of Warwick | 75 | 76 |
| 10 | University of Exeter | 74 | 75 |
1. University of Edinburgh Gold
2. University of Glasgow Silver
3. University of Manchester Bronze
4. King’s College London
5. University of Leeds
6. University of Sussex
7. University of Bristol
8. Goldsmiths, University of London
9. University of Warwick
10. University of Exeter
How We Ranked These Universities
Our Film Studies rankings blend academic excellence with student lifestyle to highlight the best places for your studies and social life.
- Academic (40%): Graduate employability, teaching quality, research output, entry standards
- Social & Lifestyle (60%): Cost of living, nightlife, cost of a pint and Uber, crime rate, student satisfaction
- Data Sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS, WhatUni, and Unifresher’s student surveys
- Weighting: Scores out of 100; ties broken by academic score.
Top-Ranked Film Studies Universities Explained
University of Glasgow
Known for its dynamic film theory courses, excellent student support, and lively campus culture.University of Manchester
Strong focus on film history, production, and critical analysis with great networking opportunities.University of Edinburgh
Offers a blend of practical and theoretical modules with high student satisfaction scores.University of Leeds
Balanced academic excellence and active film society for an engaging student life.Goldsmiths, University of London
Creative hub with excellent arts facilities and close ties to London’s film industry.University of Sussex
Reputation for innovative courses and interdisciplinary approaches in film and media.University of Bristol
Great student support and a strong focus on film culture and criticism.University of Nottingham
Offers diverse modules and access to local and national film events.University of Warwick
Known for research excellence and a vibrant campus with creative clubs.University of York
Strong emphasis on critical thinking and film theory with good student satisfaction.Career Prospects After a Film Studies Degree
Graduates often find work in media production, film criticism, content creation, and festival management. Related courses include Media and Communication and Journalism.
Film Studies Course Requirements & Entry Standards
Entry typically requires A-levels or equivalents in humanities, English, or media studies, with UCAS points ranging from 96 to 128 depending on the university.
Cheapest Cities to Study Film Studies in the UK
Manchester, Glasgow, and Leeds offer a good balance of cost and cultural opportunities for film students.
Best Unis for Nightlife & Social Life
Manchester, London, and Glasgow stand out for active nightlife scenes that complement creative studies.
Student Wellbeing, Mental Health & Study Support
Universities like Edinburgh, Glasgow, and York provide excellent wellbeing services and supportive creative communities.
Not Sure About Film Studies? Consider These Alternatives
Try Media and Communication, Drama, Theatre and Performance, or Journalism.
Summary: Which Film Studies Uni is Right for You?
Consider academic reputation, creative opportunities, student support, and social life when choosing your perfect film studies university. Save this guide to compare your options.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for Film Production
Leading universities include National Film and Television School, University of Westminster, and London Film School, all praised for hands-on learning and industry links.
The National Film and Television School frequently ranks at the top for Film Production, with industry-focused courses and strong alumni networks.
Yes, for creative and ambitious students, it opens pathways into filmmaking, editing, directing, and media production careers.
Art, Media Studies, and English can be useful; however, many courses focus on practical skills and portfolio work more than specific subjects.
You can work in directing, editing, cinematography, screenwriting, producing, and various other film and media roles.
Demand varies, but creative media is growing, especially for graduates with practical experience and networking skills.
Starting salaries typically range from £18,000 to £25,000, rising with experience and project success.
Expect a competitive field that demands creativity, technical skill, and resilience, along with long hours on projects.
Yes, especially from top schools like NFTS, it is highly regarded in the creative industries worldwide.
Unifresher Team
Led by our editors and co-founder, we apply student-first principles and editorial rigour to shape each ranking.
Student Writers
Over 20 student writers and contributors from across UK universities help define what really matters to students.
Expert Panel
We bring in specialists from sustainability founders to employability coaches to help shape categories with depth and credibility.
Our judging combines real student input with expert guidance. Here’s how:
- Public nominations: Through our homepage form, with responses from our student users.
- Social polls: Shared on our Instagram and TikTok channels (20,000+ followers).
- Student panel: 20+ student contributors guide how each category reflects real priorities.
- Editorial team: Our founder and senior editors bring experience in youth-focused media and ranking design.
- Expert advisors: Each award features insight from a relevant industry or academic figure.
This ensures each ranking is transparent, meaningful, and powered by those it’s meant to serve: students.
✅ Why You Can Trust This Ranking
- Data-backed: Official sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS
- Student-led: Over 1,000 UK students surveyed
- Balanced scoring: 40% academic + 60% student life
- Independently verified: No sponsored placements, ever
- Reviewed by editors: All results checked for fairness & accuracy
- Updated for 2025: Last checked
