Diploma Course ARTS/DDIR/201

Diploma in Directing for Film & Television

1 Year 2 Semesters Diploma Level Film & Television

Course Overview

Course Objective

To equip students with comprehensive knowledge and skills in directing, enabling them to effectively collaborate with various departments and bring their creative vision to life.

What You'll Learn

Develop a clear and compelling directorial vision and translate it from script to screen
Analyse and develop scripts, understanding story structure, character arcs, and narrative techniques
Direct and motivate actors through auditions, rehearsals, and on-set performance
Collaborate effectively with cinematography, sound, art direction, editing, and producing departments
Manage production logistics, scheduling, and budgeting for a film or television project
Create and deliver a persuasive pitch for a film or television project to a producer

How You're Assessed

Assessment System

Formative Assessment

40%

Written assignments & case studies

20%

Quizzes & exams

20%

Summative Assessment

60%

Group projects & presentations

30%

Individual project — developing & pitching a film or television project

30%

Attendance: Given the intensive nature of this course, unapproved absences may negatively impact your academic performance. Please notify your instructor in advance if you need to miss a class.

40 Weeks · 2 Semesters

Course Curriculum

Each semester is 20 weeks, combining theoretical foundations with practical hands-on projects.

Theory

›Fundamentals of directing: role, responsibilities, and creative vision
›The art and history of directing: evolution and notable directors
›Camera types, formats, angles, lighting, and movement: creating visual interest and mood
›Types of film genres: characteristics and audience expectations
›Understanding pre-production, production, and post-production stages

Practical

›Analyse the directorial approach of notable films across different genres
›Identify how directorial choices shape the audience's experience

Theory

›Script fundamentals: synopsis, screenplay format, structure, and content
›Story structure: three-act structure, plot points, and character arcs
›Narrative techniques: pacing, tone, and conflict
›Elements of good storytelling: mood, context, and visual economy

Practical

›Interpret a script visually: bring it to life through a directorial treatment
›Analyse character development: motivations, goals, and conflicts

Theory

›Fundamentals of camera operation: handling, setup, and safety
›Camera angles and movement techniques: dolly, pan, tilt, and more

Practical

›Framing and composition: rule of thirds, leading lines, and creating visually appealing shots
›Hands-on camera exercises with Cinematography students

Art Direction

›Understanding set design, props, and art direction from a director's perspective
›Collaborating with production designers to create a cohesive visual style

Sound Design

›Understanding sound recording, mixing, and design
›Collaborating with sound designers and composers
›Using music to enhance narrative and mood

Theory

›Shot sizes and their applications: using shots to convey meaning and emotion
›Visual narrative techniques: how camera lenses and composition influence the audience

Practical

›Storyboarding a script: translating words to visuals
›Floorplans: planning camera placement and movement
›Creating a shot list: organising the shoot and maximising efficiency

Auditions & Communication

›Understanding the audition process; preparing for and selecting the right actor for each role
›Effective communication with actors: giving constructive feedback and clear direction
›Motivating actors: building trust and a positive working environment

Rehearsals & Blocking

›Structuring effective rehearsals and maximising rehearsal time
›Blocking and staging scenes: techniques and best practices
›Working with actors to bring the scene to life

›Students work in groups to practise all directing techniques learned to date
›Practical exercise: a 5-minute script with a narrative structure is handed to students to direct

›Week 15 — Script breakdown: Meet the team assigned to the project; break down the script and discuss creative issues (art direction, lighting, style, pace, shot list)
›Week 16 — Pre-production: Pre-production on the 5-minute project with the assigned team
›Week 17 — Production: Shoot the 5-minute collaborative project
›Week 18 — Post-production: Understanding post-production processes and finalising the project

›Screen and review all final projects from the semester
›Discuss successes and challenges across all departments — directing & camera, sound, production
›Identify areas for improvement and share best practices for future projects

Students develop and pitch a film or television project (drama, talk show, reality, etc.) to a producer, applying all skills learned throughout the course:

›Develop a clear and compelling pitch that showcases the project's creative vision and artistic approach
›Prepare a visual presentation (storyboards, mood boards) illustrating the project's tone, style, and aesthetic
›Discuss production requirements: location scouting, crew and equipment needs, budget, and timeline
›Pitch the project to a producer, emphasising its potential for success and your plan to deliver a high-quality final product

Theory

›Analysing visual storytelling across formats: how shots, angles, lighting, and pace serve message and style in different contexts

Practical

›Watch and analyse music videos, TV commercials, documentaries, and short films
›Critique sessions: identifying how directorial choices define each format's impact

Students develop a portfolio of three productions, collaborating with a cinematographer, producer, and writer on each:

›One Music Video: Collaborate with your team to bring a music video concept to life, using your directing skills to visualise the story and work with talent
›One TV Commercial: Work with your team to direct a TV commercial, applying storytelling, pacing, and visual style to achieve the desired message
›Documentary or Short Film (10–15 min): Partner with your team to direct a compelling documentary or short film, working with cast and crew to bring the story to life

›Students work in groups to produce their final project portfolio
›Application of all directing techniques learned throughout the course

›Post-production and finalisation: editing, colour grading, sound design, and mixing
›Preparing final portfolio for screening and review

›Screen all final portfolio projects with the full cohort
›Discuss successes and challenges across departments — directing & camera, sound, production
›Identify areas for improvement and share tips and best practices

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