We look at each application individually, considering your grades, interview (along with your portfolio/audition) and any relevant experience. We typically expect students to have achieved 48 UCAS points or PPP in a Level 3 Diploma / Extended Diploma. Mature students who don’t meet these standard entry requirements may be able to show us their potential through relevant experience. Applicants whose first language is not English and who do not have GCSE English will be asked to take an IELTS assessment or equivalent and will need to achieve an overall score of 6.0, with 6.0 in the writing element and at least 5.5 in all other sub elements.
Entry requirements
Why this course?
The BA (Hons) Prop Making and Special Effects course is designed to equip you with the creative, technical and practical skills needed for a career in the entertainment and display industries. Through an industry-focused curriculum, you will develop expertise in prop making, model making and special effects, gaining extensive hands-on experience across a wide range of materials, fabrication methods and workshop practices. You will be encouraged to experiment with both traditional craftsmanship and emerging technologies, enabling you to design and manufacture innovative, professional-quality work that responds to contemporary industry needs.
Offering one of the broadest practical making experiences in the region, the course combines traditional and digital fabrication with specialist training in wood and metalwork, sculpture, mould-making and casting, soft props, puppetry and digital processes. This distinctive breadth is supported by strong links to theatre, film, television, display, corporate and live-event sectors, alongside a commitment to sustainability and live client projects that help you build an industry-ready portfolio.
Balancing individual creative development with collaborative project work, the course encourages research-led problem solving, critical thinking and professional practice. You will develop a deep understanding of materials, processes and production workflows while working on live projects for theatre, film, exhibition design and other creative industries. As you progress, you will have opportunities to explore specialist areas such as model making, puppetry and project management, while developing the entrepreneurial, communication and leadership skills needed to create and sustain a successful career in the sector.
Further information
For inventive makers who enjoy turning ideas into robust, camera-ready objects. You like problem-solving, precision and collaboration with art departments, designers and directors under real deadlines.
A key aspect of the course is its strong industry connections, offering live projects, work experience placements, and networking opportunities that prepare you for employment. You will engage with professionals across theatre, film, television, museums, festivals, and immersive entertainment industries, gaining insight into current industry practices and career pathways. Through these experiences, you will refine your skills, build a professional portfolio, and develop a network of contacts that will support your transition into creative industries.
Exhibiting your work through industry events, social media, and online platforms will further enhance your visibility and employability.
- CAD, laser cutting and 3D printing
- Moulding, casting and decorative finishes
- Project management and sustainable practice
- Sculpture, model and prop design
- Wood/metal workshop processes and safety
Careers include prop or model maker, art department assistant, set builder and production assistant across screen, theatre, events and exhibitions; many graduates freelance with specialist companies.
Our teaching and assessment methods are designed to keep learning dynamic, engaging, and hands-on. You’ll experience a mix of:
- Practical and studio-based workshops to refine your skills
- Group discussions to exchange ideas and insights
- Critiques to help improve your work
- Lectures and seminars to explore concepts and techniques
- One-one-one tutorials for tailored feedback
- Group study and peer reviews to collaborate and learn from others
- Independent study to deepen your knowledge and creativity
- Collaborative working
- External Commissions
Assessment methods are tailored to each unit and may include:
- Completing project work
- Delivering presentations
- Keeping journals of your creative journey
- Developing a research proposal
- Writing assignments to showcase your understanding
With this variety, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to grow and demonstrate your skills in ways that suit your strengths!
- Tutorials
- Small group study
- Self-directed study
- Study trips
Assessment methods are tailored to each unit and may include:
- Presentations (of practical work)
- Journals
- Research proposals
- Sketchbooks / drawings
- Written assignments
With this variety, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to grow and demonstrate your skills in ways that suit your strengths and challenge your creativity, problem-solving, and adaptability.
Flexible Exit Awards
This programme is designed as a three-year course leading to the award of a BA (Hons) degree. It is delivered through a flexible 1+1+1 structure, with each year representing a distinct stage of learning and achievement. This approach allows students to progress through the programme in clearly defined phases while retaining the flexibility to exit at the end of any academic year if their circumstances change.
Students who complete the full programme will be awarded a BA (Hons). However, students who choose to leave the course before completion may be eligible for an interim award that formally recognises the credits they have successfully achieved.
Level 4 (Year 1) Students who successfully complete 120 credits at Level 4 and then leave the programme may be awarded a Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE).
Level 5 (Year 2) Students who successfully complete 240 credits, and then leave the programme may be awarded a Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE).
Level 6 (Year 3) Students who successfully complete 360 credits, will be awarded a Bachelor of Arts with Honours (BA Hons).
This flexible 1+1+1 model ensures that students who do not complete the full degree can still receive formal recognition for their achievements, while those who continue through all three years graduate with a BA (Hons) qualification.