The Student Room Group

film degree

I have just finished my first year at university studying film production, and uni isn't for me, I do freelance work already during free time and have made good connections with people in my area of work. both parents know I love film, but they believe I NEED a degree for film. ive already told them Im not sure about it next year, but now im certain im not going back, what's the best way to tell them. thanks
You dont need a degree but it is very helpful (my dad works in the industry and his career is thanks to his degree primarily) I would tell them it is not necessary but you can instead you can use the time to continue freelance work and build up a portfiolo without the debt!
Original post by ciaranspelman
I have just finished my first year at university studying film production, and uni isn't for me, I do freelance work already during free time and have made good connections with people in my area of work. both parents know I love film, but they believe I NEED a degree for film. ive already told them Im not sure about it next year, but now im certain im not going back, what's the best way to tell them. thanks

Hello!

It is quite understandable if you feel university is not for you, especially if you’re a freelancer with experience who has built a network within the industry. You don’t need a degree but it can prove useful. A deal you can strike with your parents is that you continue to do freelance work while studying part-time (many universities offer part-time degrees with flexible class timings). If you are absolutely certain that your connections will be enough to sustain you, you can make them understand the importance of the practical experience you have and will continue developing!

Good luck in all your future endeavours!

Upasana Bhatt
Student Ambassador
Richmond American University London
Hey Ciaranspelman, it's great you're following your passion in film! Maybe sit down with your parents and explain how your freelance work and connections are already opening doors. They might understand your decision better that way. Good luck!"
(edited 6 months ago)
Hi ciaranspelman,
It's great that you want to peruse a career in film. It is clear that university is not for everyone.
You're quite fortunate as the film industry does not require a film degree. It helps by giving you skills you might not have if you jumped straight into the industry, but if it really isn't an option for you, there is no point wasting time and money on a degree you won't enjoy.
The film industry is based a lot on who you know. So maybe try and get a placement somewhere- make connections, ask to shadow some people in the industry.
If you take a step back from education and start to work in the field, you could tell your family that you're taking a year out of study to gain more industry skills- then after a year you could re-evaluate and find out if you would want to return to university.
Hope this helps
From Josh (3rd year film studies student)
-Official LJMU Student Rep

Quick Reply