The Theatre and Film degree at QMU is a hands-on, practical course that combines stage and screen work, with a strong focus on collaboration and real-world projects.
If you're thinking about studying Theatre and Film at QMU, one of the biggest questions is what the course actually looks like in practice.
Before starting, it can be hard to picture what combining theatre and film really means day to day. But once you鈥檙e here, you quickly realise it鈥檚 a creative and collaborative experience that goes far beyond just studying theory.
I鈥檓 currently in my second year, and looking back, one of the most valuable things about the course has been how quickly you鈥檙e encouraged to start making work and getting involved in real projects.
How the Theatre and Film degree at QMU combines stage and screen
One of the most unique aspects of the Theatre and Film degree at QMU is that it鈥檚 the only course of its kind in Scotland that combines both theatre and film.
Rather than choosing between theatre or film, you鈥檙e constantly working across both.
This reflects the reality of the creative industries today, where many professionals move fluidly between stage and screen. It also gives you the chance to explore different forms of storytelling and to develop a more flexible creative skill set.
Is the Theatre and Film degree practical or theoretical?
The course balances theory and practice, but a large part of it is focused on actually creating work.
Because it's so practical and collaborative, you get to try out a wide range of roles, such as directing, writing, acting, filmmaking, and producing. This is something I鈥檝e found really valuable, as it gives you the space to experiment and figure out what you enjoy most.
Much of the learning happens through rehearsals, workshops and group projects, so it rarely feels like a traditional classroom environment. Instead, you are actively involved in the process of making theatre and film from early on.
Working with other students: collaboration on the course
A typical week might include rehearsals, film shoots, workshops or project work with other students. Collaboration is a key part of the course, and you are constantly working alongside others to develop ideas and bring projects to life.
Another aspect I didn鈥檛 expect, but really value, is the opportunity to work across different year groups. For example, as a second-year student, I鈥檝e had the chance to help out on a fourth-year dissertation film.
Experiences like this give you insight into larger-scale projects and allow you to learn from students who are further along in the course.
What can you do outside your Theatre and Film course?
There is also a strong creative culture outside of the course itself. Many students get involved in societies such as drama or musical theatre, which offer additional opportunities to perform, direct and create work in a more informal setting.
This means that creativity is not limited to coursework. There is always something happening, whether it鈥檚 rehearsals, performances or student-led projects.
How the course prepares you for the creative industries
The course is designed to support students in developing skills that are relevant to the creative industries. Alongside academic and practical learning, there are often opportunities to engage with the wider industry.
These can include workshops, guest sessions, festivals, competitions and external projects. Students are encouraged to take part in these opportunities as a way of building experience, developing networks and gaining insight into professional practice.
Being able to get involved in projects beyond your own coursework makes a big difference in building confidence and understanding how the industry works in real life.
Edinburgh鈥檚 arts scene and opportunities for students
Being based in Edinburgh is a major advantage for anyone interested in theatre and film.
The city has a vibrant and active arts scene, with major events such as the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Edinburgh International Film Festival taking place each year. This creates opportunities to experience a wide range of work, connect with other creatives and get involved in the industry while still studying.
For me, this has already had a real impact. Through connections made at university, I was able to form a team and bring a show to the Edinburgh Fringe. Experiences like this show how being in the city can open doors and allow you to take your work beyond the university environment.
Is the Theatre and Film degree right for you?
Overall, the Theatre and Film degree at QMU offers a creative, practical and supportive environment where you can explore different areas of storytelling and develop your own voice.
Whether your interests lie in directing, filmmaking, performance or something in between, the course gives you the flexibility and experience to shape your own path.
For anyone interested in theatre, film or creative storytelling, it鈥檚 a place where ideas can turn into real projects and where collaboration is at the heart of everything you do.
