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Picking my uni to try and get into the TV production industry

I currently have an unconditional offer from Bournemouth (BU) for Film and TV Production and also an offer from Ravensbourne for Television Production (CCC which is achievable). I live in London so going to Ravensbourne would mean staying at home whereas a lot of my friends and my girlfriend are going away to uni. Ravensbourne also seems to lack social life as the Campus feels more like a college. Bournemouth however has this social life with lots of societies (Some that could help me build a portfolio) but would of course cost me a lot more money with accomidation, food etc. Which is the best course for getting into the TV production industry? Should i priortise the social life or money? and have other people who have moved away or stayed at home been happy with their options?

Reply 1

Original post
by Teddyw1234
I currently have an unconditional offer from Bournemouth (BU) for Film and TV Production and also an offer from Ravensbourne for Television Production (CCC which is achievable). I live in London so going to Ravensbourne would mean staying at home whereas a lot of my friends and my girlfriend are going away to uni. Ravensbourne also seems to lack social life as the Campus feels more like a college. Bournemouth however has this social life with lots of societies (Some that could help me build a portfolio) but would of course cost me a lot more money with accomidation, food etc. Which is the best course for getting into the TV production industry? Should i priortise the social life or money? and have other people who have moved away or stayed at home been happy with their options?

Hi @Teddyw1234,

I didn't study a course like this or at the universities you mentioned but I can still offer some advice. I think it's important to check modules of the courses. I think building a portfolio early on is really important, so that is something that would sway me towards Bournemouth personally but again it's your decision.

Cost of living can be hard to manage currently but it might be worth looking at if there are any bursaries or finance support from the university. I know here at the University of Lancashire the student support is great as I have used it myself as a student.

Attend some open days, I believe that these are really great to explore the courses, campuses and imagine if you could see yourself being a student there. You also see current students, lecturers and accommodation. I lived out for university, I wanted to be close to facilities whenever I wanted to use them. This might be something to consider. I also wanted to get the full experience of being on campus however this isn't to say you can't have the full experience commuting in. There are ways to still join societies and go to events by planning your time and making the most of the days you are on campus.

The social aspect is important to some students more so I really think it's about what is most important to you. Ask yourself 'what do I want from my degree other than the qualification and experience' 🙂

Hope this helps even a little bit!

Best wishes,
^Zac
(edited 1 month ago)

Reply 2

I know someone who has been very successful in getting into this. Probably crucial for their ‘break’ was winning new play write/production competitions at university (I think they studied English at university). Then starting at the bottom of the production crew and impressing. So I would look at which university/location offers the most opportunity to prove yourself extracurricularly.

Reply 3

They also warned that there is a lot of nepotism involved in landing entry roles in the industry.

Reply 4

Original post
by Teddyw1234
I currently have an unconditional offer from Bournemouth (BU) for Film and TV Production and also an offer from Ravensbourne for Television Production (CCC which is achievable). I live in London so going to Ravensbourne would mean staying at home whereas a lot of my friends and my girlfriend are going away to uni. Ravensbourne also seems to lack social life as the Campus feels more like a college. Bournemouth however has this social life with lots of societies (Some that could help me build a portfolio) but would of course cost me a lot more money with accomidation, food etc. Which is the best course for getting into the TV production industry? Should i priortise the social life or money? and have other people who have moved away or stayed at home been happy with their options?

Hi @Teddyw1234

Some great advice given already!

Thought I would just add a post I have previously made with advice on making a decision
Tips on Making a University Choice - The Student Room

Also to add that experience in the industry can really help boost a degree and be just as important, so this is something you could do for whichever uni you choose to help you get into the industry.
Maybe a good thing to check if the uni has any good career support or can help you find and secure placements.

I hope this helps and good luck making a decision :smile:
-Grace (Kingston Rep)

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