Master in Directing Documentary

At National Film and Television School, applications for the Jan 2028 intake close on May 9, 2027, and tuition fees are 26,000 GBP per year.

The Master in Directing Documentary is a 2-year program at the National Film and Television School in the United Kingdom. It's for students who want to become documentary directors and have a Bachelor's degree. This program focuses on storytelling and helps you develop your personal voice as a filmmaker.

The curriculum includes practical projects, where you'll collaborate with students in other specialisms to make several films. You'll learn about directing, commissioning, and the legal and finance side of getting a film made. You'll also participate in hands-on components, such as making 4 films during your time on the course, to develop your skills in documentary filmmaking.

After completing this program, you can pursue careers such as Documentary Director, Film Producer, Story Editor, or Cinematographer. You can work in the film, television, or documentary industries, and potential employers include production companies, film studios, or broadcasting networks.

The National Film and Television School in Beaconsfield, United Kingdom, established in 1971, is a compact and highly specialized institution focused on film, television and games. With around 700 students and roughly 294 international students, NFTS combines a studio-style learning environment with close mentorship from working professionals. The school emphasizes craft, storytelling and technical excellence, helping students build portfolios and reels that reflect industry standards.

Students choose from 42 specialist programs and benefit from access to film stages, postproduction suites, sound facilities, camera and lighting equipment, motion capture and VFX labs. Learning is project-based: teams produce short films, series pilots and interactive projects under realistic production schedules. Regular guest lectures, masterclasses and production partnerships connect students with producers, broadcasters and post houses, while alumni placements and festival successes demonstrate clear pathways into professional roles.

International applicants find dedicated support for admissions and visas, alongside information about scholarships and funding opportunities. Beaconsfield is close to London, giving students practical exposure to the UK media industry while preserving a focused campus atmosphere. Prospective students should prepare a strong creative portfolio, show collaborative experience and clarify career goals to take full advantage of NFTS resources and industry networks.