Why choose this course?

The Higher National Diploma in Film is designed to give you the opportunity to express yourself through the medium of film.

The programme combines an emphasis on the art of filmmaking and the visual representation of story with the development of technical, organisational and production skills.

It consists of five main areas: practical camera and lighting, theory and analysis, art direction, production management and postproduction processes. There is an emphasis on visual language and cinematography. You will be encouraged to examine the variety of styles of filmmaking, both contemporary and historical.

What will you study?

Course Facilities

• Sound Stage
• Scenery Room
• Dressing Rooms
• Avid Edit Suites
• ARRI and Atton Super 16mm Cameras
• Alexa Digital Cinematography Camera
• Lighting and support equipment

What do you need to apply?

Year 1 Higher National Certificate

• Leaving Certificate/LCVP with a minimum of two O1/H5 and three O6/H7 grades, or equivalent or a relevant Level 5 award with a Merit profile. Suitable foundation Level 5 courses in BCFE include:
  • Cinematography Level 5 (IFC)
  • Media and Broadcasting Diploma Level 5 (MND)
  • Short Film & Factual Video Production Level 5 (ITC)
• The academic entry requirements may be waived for mature applicants (21+).

Year 2 Higher National Diploma

• Students who have successfully completed year 1 and have achieved a Higher National Certificate in Creative Media Production (Film), can progress automatically to year 2.
• Applicants with an equivalent Higher National Certificate, and subject to module compatibility may also apply directly to Year 2, Higher National Diploma in Creative Media Production (Film).

Portfolio Guidelines

• Students should bring an original portfolio of their recent visual work to the Interview. Each candidate will be interviewed on their portfolio work. The portfolio interview will last approximately 20 minutes. The portfolio should contain items that are current or relevant to the application. The emphasis should be on quality and not quantity. Film and/or Video work should be presented on USB. If your video is a group production, you should show a part that contains your own work. Photographic work should show your skills in lighting, framing and composition and possibly sequence. No more than 20 photos should be presented. Storyboards may also be presented in support.

Progression Opportunities

• Graduates who achieve a Merit/Distinction profile may apply for entry to the BA (Hons) in Media Production Management in BCFE.
• Graduates of this course may also apply through the CAO and/or the Higher Education Links Scheme for entry to higher and advanced certificate and degree programmes at national Institutes of Technology, Technological Universities and Universities (applicants should confirm linked awards and eligibility requirements with the relevant Higher Education Institution).
• Graduates may also gain exemption of one or two years from cognate degree courses in the UK.