Documentary Practice

The new MA in Documentary Practice draws from our 30 years of experience teaching film and television in the School of Communications. It's our response to the increasing interest from students and the growing demand in the industry for long form documentary content..



Furthermore, we provide access to cutting-edge facilities, including a recently constructed media studio equipped with industry-standard cameras, sound recording equipment, and editing tools. This ensures our students have access to the best resources for honing their skills and achieving their creative aspirations.



Programme Structure

The course has been uniquely equipped with brand new camera equipment, a dedicated post-production lab as well as access to the school’s professional sound and television studios. What makes this MA programme truly unique is its holistic and practice based approach to non-fiction storytelling. Students will immerse themselves in a multidisciplinary journey encompassing photography, audio production, and video production. Additionally, they will explore theory through extensive readings and the analysis of key documentary films and projects.

The minimum criteria for entry to this taught postgraduate programme is that applicants hold a minimum of a second class honours, grade two primary degree (Level 8) or equivalent professional qualification. In addition to the standard application form and personal statement outlining their interest in the course, applicants will be required to submit:



• a portfolio of previous work (this does not have to be to a professional standard, but should demonstrate basic familiarity with either video, photographic or aural story-telling

AND/OR

• a written proposal for a documentary project (video, photographic or audio), outlining the objectives, style and intended audience for the production.



Applicants with appropriate combinations of professional qualifications and experience may also be considered. This includes discipline-specific knowledge and know-how; transferable skills; basic research competency; personal effectiveness.



Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) applicants are required to submit a cover letter along with their application under the Transcripts section of the portal, affirming their intent to apply for RPL. For more information on RPL see here.



In the case of international applicants, having educational qualifications of a standard equivalent to those outlined above. In addition, where such candidates are non-native speakers of the English language, they must satisfy the University of their competency in the English language, with a minimum score of IELTS 6.5 or equivalent. Transfer from related Level 9 programmes in DCU or other third-level institutions is subject to having fulfilled educational qualifications of a standard equivalent to those outlined above.

1 year full-time.

Graduates from our Masters in Documentary Practice are poised to become sought-after assets for the dynamic audio-visual industry. They not only bring valuable practical production skills but also possess a profound knack for storytelling. This unique combination equips them with the versatility to chart their own career trajectories.



Potential careers

Documentary filmmaker

Documentary producer

Sound recordist

Camera operator

Director

Television producer

Radio producer

Researcher

Editor

Sound editor

In house communications

Public Service