Salford or kingston uni for film?
Hey everyone, I’m really torn between Kingston University and the University of Salford for my Film Production degree, and I need some outside perspectives to help me make a decision.
I’ve been accepted into both, and each has its own pros and cons. I want to thrive creatively and be in an environment that supports my growth as a filmmaker and potentially as a YouTuber in the future. Here’s where I’m stuck:
Salford University
✅ Pros (Why I’m Considering It):
Excellent film facilities & hands-on experience
Strong industry connections (BBC, ITV, etc.), though I’m more focused on film than TV
Affordable and great accommodation
❌ Cons (Why I’m Hesitant):
The city itself isn’t visually inspiring – it feels a bit dull and industrial, which might affect my creativity
Some areas feel less safe, and there’s a lot of smoking culture
Accommodation isn’t right next to campus, so commuting can be inconvenient
Travel from my home country is expensive & time-consuming, meaning fewer visits from family
Kingston University
✅ Pros (Why I’m Considering It):
Much more beautiful, safe, and has a creative atmosphere – I feel like I’d thrive in this environment
Closer to my home country – travel is cheaper and easier, so my family can visit more often
Being near London means cool events, potential networking, and access to creative opportunities
Still a strong film program, just slightly less hands-on than Salford
❌ Cons (Why I’m Hesitant):
Accommodation is expensive, far from campus, and not the most comfortable
London is 40 minutes away, which isn’t super close or cheap, so I might not go often
Kingston itself is quieter, so I’m worried I might get bored after a while
For any filmmakers or students—what would you prioritize? Would Kingston’s atmosphere make up for the slightly weaker course? Or is Salford’s education and affordability worth the trade-offs?
I’ve been accepted into both, and each has its own pros and cons. I want to thrive creatively and be in an environment that supports my growth as a filmmaker and potentially as a YouTuber in the future. Here’s where I’m stuck:
Salford University
✅ Pros (Why I’m Considering It):
Excellent film facilities & hands-on experience
Strong industry connections (BBC, ITV, etc.), though I’m more focused on film than TV
Affordable and great accommodation
❌ Cons (Why I’m Hesitant):
The city itself isn’t visually inspiring – it feels a bit dull and industrial, which might affect my creativity
Some areas feel less safe, and there’s a lot of smoking culture
Accommodation isn’t right next to campus, so commuting can be inconvenient
Travel from my home country is expensive & time-consuming, meaning fewer visits from family
Kingston University
✅ Pros (Why I’m Considering It):
Much more beautiful, safe, and has a creative atmosphere – I feel like I’d thrive in this environment
Closer to my home country – travel is cheaper and easier, so my family can visit more often
Being near London means cool events, potential networking, and access to creative opportunities
Still a strong film program, just slightly less hands-on than Salford
❌ Cons (Why I’m Hesitant):
Accommodation is expensive, far from campus, and not the most comfortable
London is 40 minutes away, which isn’t super close or cheap, so I might not go often
Kingston itself is quieter, so I’m worried I might get bored after a while
For any filmmakers or students—what would you prioritize? Would Kingston’s atmosphere make up for the slightly weaker course? Or is Salford’s education and affordability worth the trade-offs?
Reply 1
Hi there,
Congratulations on your offers from both those unis and its really good to hear you're thinking carefully about the pros and cons of your options.
Unfortunately I can't speak personally for either of them, but what I would say is that its ultimately you who is the best judge of which is best for you, which course would suit your interests best and where you feel more at home.
I would definitely prioritise which course you think has modules and elements you find more engaging - if you are enjoying what you're studying and focussing on more it will make staying motivated a lot easier. If you're going to be doing this for 3-4 years, its important you put your enjoyment first and select something which will help you develop in the areas you want to. Where do you think you would thrive academically and creatively? What kind of a filmmaker are you and want to be? Do any of the modules of each course sound like they may help you get there?
I'd also ask yourself which area/campus you felt more at home at. Where inspired you more, where could you see yourself? Both are in big cities and so you would likely have relatively good access to the city centre should you want to visit, as well as being close to quite a few filming hotspots.
You say Salford is a little grey and uninspiring - is there any way you can turn that on its head by capitalising on its urban nature in your creativity? And what about Kingston? What would the benefits be of being in a city more colourful and beautiful?
I hope this helps a little, and best of luck with your choices 🙂
Holly
University of Bath
Congratulations on your offers from both those unis and its really good to hear you're thinking carefully about the pros and cons of your options.
Unfortunately I can't speak personally for either of them, but what I would say is that its ultimately you who is the best judge of which is best for you, which course would suit your interests best and where you feel more at home.
I would definitely prioritise which course you think has modules and elements you find more engaging - if you are enjoying what you're studying and focussing on more it will make staying motivated a lot easier. If you're going to be doing this for 3-4 years, its important you put your enjoyment first and select something which will help you develop in the areas you want to. Where do you think you would thrive academically and creatively? What kind of a filmmaker are you and want to be? Do any of the modules of each course sound like they may help you get there?
I'd also ask yourself which area/campus you felt more at home at. Where inspired you more, where could you see yourself? Both are in big cities and so you would likely have relatively good access to the city centre should you want to visit, as well as being close to quite a few filming hotspots.
You say Salford is a little grey and uninspiring - is there any way you can turn that on its head by capitalising on its urban nature in your creativity? And what about Kingston? What would the benefits be of being in a city more colourful and beautiful?
I hope this helps a little, and best of luck with your choices 🙂
Holly
University of Bath
(edited 3 weeks ago)
Reply 2
Original post by Anonymous
Hey everyone, I’m really torn between Kingston University and the University of Salford for my Film Production degree, and I need some outside perspectives to help me make a decision.
I’ve been accepted into both, and each has its own pros and cons. I want to thrive creatively and be in an environment that supports my growth as a filmmaker and potentially as a YouTuber in the future. Here’s where I’m stuck:
Salford University
✅ Pros (Why I’m Considering It):
Excellent film facilities & hands-on experience
Strong industry connections (BBC, ITV, etc.), though I’m more focused on film than TV
Affordable and great accommodation
❌ Cons (Why I’m Hesitant):
The city itself isn’t visually inspiring – it feels a bit dull and industrial, which might affect my creativity
Some areas feel less safe, and there’s a lot of smoking culture
Accommodation isn’t right next to campus, so commuting can be inconvenient
Travel from my home country is expensive & time-consuming, meaning fewer visits from family
Kingston University
✅ Pros (Why I’m Considering It):
Much more beautiful, safe, and has a creative atmosphere – I feel like I’d thrive in this environment
Closer to my home country – travel is cheaper and easier, so my family can visit more often
Being near London means cool events, potential networking, and access to creative opportunities
Still a strong film program, just slightly less hands-on than Salford
❌ Cons (Why I’m Hesitant):
Accommodation is expensive, far from campus, and not the most comfortable
London is 40 minutes away, which isn’t super close or cheap, so I might not go often
Kingston itself is quieter, so I’m worried I might get bored after a while
For any filmmakers or students—what would you prioritize? Would Kingston’s atmosphere make up for the slightly weaker course? Or is Salford’s education and affordability worth the trade-offs?
I’ve been accepted into both, and each has its own pros and cons. I want to thrive creatively and be in an environment that supports my growth as a filmmaker and potentially as a YouTuber in the future. Here’s where I’m stuck:
Salford University
✅ Pros (Why I’m Considering It):
Excellent film facilities & hands-on experience
Strong industry connections (BBC, ITV, etc.), though I’m more focused on film than TV
Affordable and great accommodation
❌ Cons (Why I’m Hesitant):
The city itself isn’t visually inspiring – it feels a bit dull and industrial, which might affect my creativity
Some areas feel less safe, and there’s a lot of smoking culture
Accommodation isn’t right next to campus, so commuting can be inconvenient
Travel from my home country is expensive & time-consuming, meaning fewer visits from family
Kingston University
✅ Pros (Why I’m Considering It):
Much more beautiful, safe, and has a creative atmosphere – I feel like I’d thrive in this environment
Closer to my home country – travel is cheaper and easier, so my family can visit more often
Being near London means cool events, potential networking, and access to creative opportunities
Still a strong film program, just slightly less hands-on than Salford
❌ Cons (Why I’m Hesitant):
Accommodation is expensive, far from campus, and not the most comfortable
London is 40 minutes away, which isn’t super close or cheap, so I might not go often
Kingston itself is quieter, so I’m worried I might get bored after a while
For any filmmakers or students—what would you prioritize? Would Kingston’s atmosphere make up for the slightly weaker course? Or is Salford’s education and affordability worth the trade-offs?
@University of Salford Student Rep & @Kingston University / @Kingston Reps / @Kingston Grace ?
(edited 4 weeks ago)
Original post by Anonymous
Hey everyone, I’m really torn between Kingston University and the University of Salford for my Film Production degree, and I need some outside perspectives to help me make a decision.
I’ve been accepted into both, and each has its own pros and cons. I want to thrive creatively and be in an environment that supports my growth as a filmmaker and potentially as a YouTuber in the future. Here’s where I’m stuck:
Salford University
✅ Pros (Why I’m Considering It):
Excellent film facilities & hands-on experience
Strong industry connections (BBC, ITV, etc.), though I’m more focused on film than TV
Affordable and great accommodation
❌ Cons (Why I’m Hesitant):
The city itself isn’t visually inspiring – it feels a bit dull and industrial, which might affect my creativity
Some areas feel less safe, and there’s a lot of smoking culture
Accommodation isn’t right next to campus, so commuting can be inconvenient
Travel from my home country is expensive & time-consuming, meaning fewer visits from family
Kingston University
✅ Pros (Why I’m Considering It):
Much more beautiful, safe, and has a creative atmosphere – I feel like I’d thrive in this environment
Closer to my home country – travel is cheaper and easier, so my family can visit more often
Being near London means cool events, potential networking, and access to creative opportunities
Still a strong film program, just slightly less hands-on than Salford
❌ Cons (Why I’m Hesitant):
Accommodation is expensive, far from campus, and not the most comfortable
London is 40 minutes away, which isn’t super close or cheap, so I might not go often
Kingston itself is quieter, so I’m worried I might get bored after a while
For any filmmakers or students—what would you prioritize? Would Kingston’s atmosphere make up for the slightly weaker course? Or is Salford’s education and affordability worth the trade-offs?
I’ve been accepted into both, and each has its own pros and cons. I want to thrive creatively and be in an environment that supports my growth as a filmmaker and potentially as a YouTuber in the future. Here’s where I’m stuck:
Salford University
✅ Pros (Why I’m Considering It):
Excellent film facilities & hands-on experience
Strong industry connections (BBC, ITV, etc.), though I’m more focused on film than TV
Affordable and great accommodation
❌ Cons (Why I’m Hesitant):
The city itself isn’t visually inspiring – it feels a bit dull and industrial, which might affect my creativity
Some areas feel less safe, and there’s a lot of smoking culture
Accommodation isn’t right next to campus, so commuting can be inconvenient
Travel from my home country is expensive & time-consuming, meaning fewer visits from family
Kingston University
✅ Pros (Why I’m Considering It):
Much more beautiful, safe, and has a creative atmosphere – I feel like I’d thrive in this environment
Closer to my home country – travel is cheaper and easier, so my family can visit more often
Being near London means cool events, potential networking, and access to creative opportunities
Still a strong film program, just slightly less hands-on than Salford
❌ Cons (Why I’m Hesitant):
Accommodation is expensive, far from campus, and not the most comfortable
London is 40 minutes away, which isn’t super close or cheap, so I might not go often
Kingston itself is quieter, so I’m worried I might get bored after a while
For any filmmakers or students—what would you prioritize? Would Kingston’s atmosphere make up for the slightly weaker course? Or is Salford’s education and affordability worth the trade-offs?
Hello there,
We love to see that you are considering our University as one of your options and it is really good to see that you are lining up some personal pros and cons. This is one of the best ways to make a decision.
I thought I would pop you a reply and help go through some of those cons to see if I could help more.
Firstly, I would say that Manchester/ Salford is a great student city to be immersed in as a student. I studied Journalism at Salford and being in Media City was amazing. Having Manchester on the doorstep of our campuses was also a great plus. It may seem a little industrial from the outside but trust me it has amazing character and personality that has sparked the creativity of so many before. Maybe you could be next to feel its spark.
Our main campus, Peel Park, where are first year accommodation is, has 24 hour round the clock security which is a really nice to have. Especially as a new student moving out for the first time, to have this level of security did help ease my mind.
Although our accommodation is on our main campus and not down at out Media City campus, the commute was actually nice. We have the 50 bus which takes you directly from Peel Park to Media City and even though this meant waking up a little earlier it was worth it to be able to study on Media City. For our Film production course it is now taught about 50/50 split between Peel Park and Media City so for 50% of your week your teaching will be right next to the accommodation.
I hope these little bits of information help you and if you want to know any more do ask away.
Matt ~ Uni of Salford rep
Original post by University of Salford
Hello there,
We love to see that you are considering our University as one of your options and it is really good to see that you are lining up some personal pros and cons. This is one of the best ways to make a decision.
I thought I would pop you a reply and help go through some of those cons to see if I could help more.
Firstly, I would say that Manchester/ Salford is a great student city to be immersed in as a student. I studied Journalism at Salford and being in Media City was amazing. Having Manchester on the doorstep of our campuses was also a great plus. It may seem a little industrial from the outside but trust me it has amazing character and personality that has sparked the creativity of so many before. Maybe you could be next to feel its spark.
Our main campus, Peel Park, where are first year accommodation is, has 24 hour round the clock security which is a really nice to have. Especially as a new student moving out for the first time, to have this level of security did help ease my mind.
Although our accommodation is on our main campus and not down at out Media City campus, the commute was actually nice. We have the 50 bus which takes you directly from Peel Park to Media City and even though this meant waking up a little earlier it was worth it to be able to study on Media City. For our Film production course it is now taught about 50/50 split between Peel Park and Media City so for 50% of your week your teaching will be right next to the accommodation.
I hope these little bits of information help you and if you want to know any more do ask away.
Matt ~ Uni of Salford rep
We love to see that you are considering our University as one of your options and it is really good to see that you are lining up some personal pros and cons. This is one of the best ways to make a decision.
I thought I would pop you a reply and help go through some of those cons to see if I could help more.
Firstly, I would say that Manchester/ Salford is a great student city to be immersed in as a student. I studied Journalism at Salford and being in Media City was amazing. Having Manchester on the doorstep of our campuses was also a great plus. It may seem a little industrial from the outside but trust me it has amazing character and personality that has sparked the creativity of so many before. Maybe you could be next to feel its spark.
Our main campus, Peel Park, where are first year accommodation is, has 24 hour round the clock security which is a really nice to have. Especially as a new student moving out for the first time, to have this level of security did help ease my mind.
Although our accommodation is on our main campus and not down at out Media City campus, the commute was actually nice. We have the 50 bus which takes you directly from Peel Park to Media City and even though this meant waking up a little earlier it was worth it to be able to study on Media City. For our Film production course it is now taught about 50/50 split between Peel Park and Media City so for 50% of your week your teaching will be right next to the accommodation.
I hope these little bits of information help you and if you want to know any more do ask away.
Matt ~ Uni of Salford rep
Thank you so much
Reply 6
Original post by Anonymous
Hey everyone, I’m really torn between Kingston University and the University of Salford for my Film Production degree, and I need some outside perspectives to help me make a decision.
I’ve been accepted into both, and each has its own pros and cons. I want to thrive creatively and be in an environment that supports my growth as a filmmaker and potentially as a YouTuber in the future. Here’s where I’m stuck:
Salford University
✅ Pros (Why I’m Considering It):
Excellent film facilities & hands-on experience
Strong industry connections (BBC, ITV, etc.), though I’m more focused on film than TV
Affordable and great accommodation
❌ Cons (Why I’m Hesitant):
The city itself isn’t visually inspiring – it feels a bit dull and industrial, which might affect my creativity
Some areas feel less safe, and there’s a lot of smoking culture
Accommodation isn’t right next to campus, so commuting can be inconvenient
Travel from my home country is expensive & time-consuming, meaning fewer visits from family
Kingston University
✅ Pros (Why I’m Considering It):
Much more beautiful, safe, and has a creative atmosphere – I feel like I’d thrive in this environment
Closer to my home country – travel is cheaper and easier, so my family can visit more often
Being near London means cool events, potential networking, and access to creative opportunities
Still a strong film program, just slightly less hands-on than Salford
❌ Cons (Why I’m Hesitant):
Accommodation is expensive, far from campus, and not the most comfortable
London is 40 minutes away, which isn’t super close or cheap, so I might not go often
Kingston itself is quieter, so I’m worried I might get bored after a while
For any filmmakers or students—what would you prioritize? Would Kingston’s atmosphere make up for the slightly weaker course? Or is Salford’s education and affordability worth the trade-offs?
I’ve been accepted into both, and each has its own pros and cons. I want to thrive creatively and be in an environment that supports my growth as a filmmaker and potentially as a YouTuber in the future. Here’s where I’m stuck:
Salford University
✅ Pros (Why I’m Considering It):
Excellent film facilities & hands-on experience
Strong industry connections (BBC, ITV, etc.), though I’m more focused on film than TV
Affordable and great accommodation
❌ Cons (Why I’m Hesitant):
The city itself isn’t visually inspiring – it feels a bit dull and industrial, which might affect my creativity
Some areas feel less safe, and there’s a lot of smoking culture
Accommodation isn’t right next to campus, so commuting can be inconvenient
Travel from my home country is expensive & time-consuming, meaning fewer visits from family
Kingston University
✅ Pros (Why I’m Considering It):
Much more beautiful, safe, and has a creative atmosphere – I feel like I’d thrive in this environment
Closer to my home country – travel is cheaper and easier, so my family can visit more often
Being near London means cool events, potential networking, and access to creative opportunities
Still a strong film program, just slightly less hands-on than Salford
❌ Cons (Why I’m Hesitant):
Accommodation is expensive, far from campus, and not the most comfortable
London is 40 minutes away, which isn’t super close or cheap, so I might not go often
Kingston itself is quieter, so I’m worried I might get bored after a while
For any filmmakers or students—what would you prioritize? Would Kingston’s atmosphere make up for the slightly weaker course? Or is Salford’s education and affordability worth the trade-offs?
Hi,
Great to hear you are considering Kingston.
And thank you @University of Bath for tagging me in this, I appreciate it
These pro and cons lists are a great start!
I don't personally study film here at Kingston but I do have friends here that do and I am part of KSA (Kingston School of Art). You will be studying at Knights Park which is a lovely campus with a student bar, outdoor space along the river and amazing workshop facilities.
The workshops are open to all students no matter what they study and there is a real range from woodwork, printmaking, ceramics and more. There is also the filmmaking studios which when I have been by which look amazing, with post production studios across from them and always technicians on hand in the week to help.
There are lots of fun student events always happing at Knights Park and it is a great space to network with others going into the creative industry. Here is a post I did about the events in first term last year Student Organised Events Happening at Kingston University For example I am sat in the library now and when I walked through reception there were graphic design students selling scarfs they have designed, a bake sale and lots of posters in the hallways about upcoming events and things happening on the campus
There is accommodation very close to the Knights Park. I stayed in Middle Mill last year that was just over the Bridge from Knights Park, a 3 minute walk! Other options would be Seething Wells which is a 10 minute free uni bus to the Penrhyn Campus which is a 10 minute walk from Knights Park. Or Clayhill which is a 20 minute walk or a 10 minute bus. Here is a post I did on My Experience Living at Middle Mill
I agree the location is a big reason why I like living and studying in Kingston, their is always so much to do and see. For me it is the best of both worlds. I go into central London usually at least once a week. I have done lots of projects where I have gone into central to do photoshoots as there are so many great locations. I have also had internship opportunities in central London as I was able to commute in from Kingston.
You may also find these posts I have done useful:
Monthly Spending Expenses as a Kingston Student - The Student Room
How to Save on Transport (Kingston University London Student) - The Student Room
Social Life and Night Life at Kingston - The Student Room
My Deciding Factors For Choosing Kingston University - The Student Room
I hope this is helpful and feel free to ask any questions
-Grace (Kingston Rep)
2nd year fashion comms student
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