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 in the UK
The UK is home to some of the world’s most respected film schools and creative universities. Our 2025 guide highlights the best universities for Film Studies in the UK, ranked by teaching quality, creative facilities, research excellence, and student satisfaction. Whether you’re interested in screen production, film theory, or media analysis, these universities offer the perfect blend of creativity and academic depth to help you succeed in the film and media industries.
University of Glasgow
Glasgow offers dynamic film theory and production courses with a focus on critical analysis and cultural context. The university’s strong creative community and excellent student support make it ideal for aspiring filmmakers and critics alike.
University of Manchester
Manchester combines film history, production, and critical study with great networking opportunities. Students can explore hands-on filmmaking alongside theory, benefiting from the city’s thriving media and arts scene.
University of Edinburgh
Edinburgh provides a blend of practical and theoretical learning through diverse modules in cinema, television, and digital culture. High student satisfaction scores reflect the university’s supportive academic and creative environment.
University of Leeds
Leeds balances academic excellence with an active film society. Students gain experience in film production, screenwriting, and analysis while enjoying a lively campus atmosphere and access to local film festivals.
Goldsmiths, University of London
Goldsmiths is a creative hub in London’s arts scene, offering innovative courses that merge theory, production, and visual culture. Students benefit from professional-standard film studios, editing suites, and close ties to the UK film industry.
University of Sussex
Sussex has a strong reputation for interdisciplinary film and media studies. Its innovative approach encourages students to explore politics, gender, and society through film, supported by excellent academic staff and creative facilities.
University of Bristol
Bristol’s Film and Television department focuses on film culture, criticism, and creative industries. Students enjoy access to a UNESCO City of Film with internship opportunities in local production companies and creative agencies.
University of Nottingham
Nottingham offers diverse film modules in areas such as global cinema, screenwriting, and visual media. Students benefit from a collaborative learning environment and access to local and national film events and festivals.
University of Warwick
Warwick is known for its research excellence and creative student culture. Its Film and Television Studies department offers both practical and critical modules, supported by vibrant campus clubs and societies.
University of York
York provides strong academic grounding in film theory, production, and screenwriting. Excellent facilities, supportive staff, and a growing creative community make it one of the best universities for film studies in the UK.
Career Prospects After a Film Studies Degree
Film Studies graduates pursue careers in film production, directing, editing, screenwriting, journalism, and festival management. The transferable skills developed — creativity, storytelling, and critical analysis — are also valued in marketing, broadcasting, and communications. Related degrees include Media and Communication and Journalism.
Entry Requirements for Film Studies Courses
Entry requirements typically include A-levels in humanities, English, or media studies, with UCAS points ranging from 96 to 128 depending on the university. A passion for cinema and evidence of creative work are also advantageous.
Most Affordable Cities to Study Film Studies
Manchester, Glasgow, and Leeds are among the best-value cities for Film Studies students, offering affordable living and access to thriving local arts scenes.
Best Universities for Nightlife and Social Life
Manchester, London, and Glasgow are top picks for students seeking an exciting social experience, with countless cinemas, theatres, and arts events to complement creative study.
Student Wellbeing and Study Support
Universities such as Edinburgh, Glasgow, and York are recognised for their strong wellbeing support, creative mentorship, and inclusive learning environments.
Considering Alternatives to Film Studies?
If you’re exploring related creative subjects, consider Media and Communication, Drama, Theatre and Performance, or Journalism.
Summary: Which Film Studies University Is Right for You?
When choosing where to study Film Studies, think about creative facilities, academic focus, location, and industry links. Goldsmiths and UAL-connected universities stand out for creative access, while Manchester and Edinburgh combine strong theory with vibrant campus life. Use this guide to compare and find your ideal film studies course in the UK.
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