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Accessibility statement
An Open University film and media student at a workstation using software to edit a video.
Film and media influence how we understand culture, society and the stories that connect us. This practical diploma combines creative production with the study of film, television and contemporary media, helping you develop skills in filmmaking, digital storytelling, content creation, production and post-production. You'll explore global film cultures and factual media, while examining how technologies such as AI are transforming the industry alongside issues including sustainability, ethics and representation. Through practical and critical study, you’ll build the confidence, creative skills and analytical understanding to progress to further study or pursue opportunities in film, media and the wider creative industries.
A nationally recognised qualification in its own right, this diploma of higher education is also equivalent to the first two-thirds of the BA (Honours) Film and Media (R90).
This film and media diploma has two stages, each comprising 120 credits.

You’ll begin by exploring the creative industries and developing a foundation in film and media practice. Along the way, you’ll start building the creative, critical and practical skills that underpin your later study.
ModulesCreditsStart month
You'll study both of the following:
Exploring the creative industries (P100)60Oct

In Stage 2, you’ll broaden your perspective through global film cultures and factual media. You’ll develop your ability to analyse and create media while exploring how different forms and approaches are shaped by cultural and industry contexts.
ModulesCreditsStart month
You'll study both of the following:

By studying this diploma, you'll:
You’ll be supported by experienced tutors, interactive learning materials, and hear from industry specialists.
You’ll be awarded a Diploma of Higher Education in Film and Media upon successful completion.
If you plan to work or study outside the UK, we recommend checking whether this qualification meets local requirements. Find out more about the international recognition of Open University qualifications.
As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the qualification-specific regulations below and the academic regulations that are available on our Student Policies and Regulations website.
We regularly review our curriculum to keep it up to date. This means the structure, availability, and content of the course or modules may change. We’ll update this page as soon as possible if there are any changes. If you have already registered for this qualification, we’ll inform you in good time of any upcoming changes where practicable. For more details, see our Academic Regulations or contact us.
You can achieve this diploma in as little as two years and have a maximum of 12 years to complete it. Our module-by-module approach gives you the flexibility to complete your qualification at a pace that works best for you.
As this is a new diploma, its modules are being introduced one year at a time, so the fastest pace open to you depends on when you start.

2-year diploma

If you start in October 2028 or later, you can complete this diploma in two years by studying at a pace equivalent to full-time. That’s similar to a student at a campus-based university.
3-year diploma

If you start in October 2027, you can complete this diploma in three years. You’ll begin part-time while the Stage 1 modules are introduced, then move up to a full-time pace from October 2029.
4-year diploma

You can complete this diploma in four years by studying part-time. That’s roughly half the rate of a student on a full-time course at a campus-based university.
At the OU, flexibility and support go hand in hand. You’ll be in control of when and where you study, with clear deadlines to guide your progress. Whether you’re balancing work, family or other commitments, our approach helps you fit learning into your life. Students consistently praise the support we provide, and from the very start, you’ll be part of a vibrant OU learning community.
As you progress through your qualification, you’ll have access to a dedicated online study space, expert tutor guidance, optional live tutorials, and a wide range of resources to help you succeed. The sections below outline what you can expect.
Your module website will be a central hub for your learning, giving you easy access to:
Discover how the OU’s module websites, course materials, and support tools help you study online with confidence.
Each module has a dedicated tutor who will guide you through your studies. They’ll provide feedback, help you find resources, mark your assignments and support your learning journey.
For extra support, you can attend optional live tutorials with your tutor. These are usually conducted online, and most are recorded so you can review them later.
See how OU tutors and tutorials help you build confidence, connect with others, and get the support you need to succeed in your studies.
Our assessments reinforce what you’ve learned and show your understanding. Assessment types vary by module and may include:
Our qualifications are as accessible as possible, and we have a comprehensive range of support services to help you succeed. This qualification uses a variety of study materials and includes the following elements:
Every module has its own Accessibility Statement with more detailed accessibility information – you’ll find these in individual module descriptions. Visit our Disability support page to learn more about our services.
Discover how the OU’s Disability Support Team helps students with advice, adjustments and resources.
Throughout your studies, you’ll have access to a wide range of support services and be part of a vibrant learning community. Our subject-specific Student Support Teams can help with general queries and any updates to your OU account. You’ll also benefit from:
Discover the support network and learning tools you'll have access to throughout your studies.
There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification.
2027/28 fees and funding information will be available in March 2027, when this qualification opens for registration.
This Diploma of Higher Education develops your ability to create, analyse and communicate through film and media. You'll build on your skills in storytelling, media production and digital content creation while exploring a range of creative approaches and contexts. Through practical and critical activities, you'll learn how to research, develop and present creative work for different audiences. Alongside subject knowledge, you'll strengthen your communication, collaboration and problem-solving skills, providing a strong foundation for further study and opportunities in the creative industries.
Film, media and digital content play an important role across the creative industries and beyond. This diploma develops your understanding of how media is created, shared and experienced, while building experience in creative and analytical approaches. The qualification can support progression to further study and opportunities in areas such as content creation, production management, post-production, editorial work, communications and digital media.
You can start exploring some areas of our Careers and Employability Services now. Once you register with us, you’ll have full access to the services throughout your studies and for up to three years after you finish.
As a registered student or recent graduate, you can use online tools, resources, workshops, events and one-to-one guidance from careers professionals to explore your options, set goals, find opportunities, prepare applications, build your CV and practise your interview techniques. Whether you’re planning your first career move, changing direction or developing in your current role, you’ll find support to help you move forward with confidence.
In the meantime, if you want to do some research around this qualification and where it might take you, we've put together a list of relevant job titles as a starting point (note that some careers may require further study, training and/or work experience beyond your diploma of higher education:
This new course opens for registration in March. If you’d like us to keep you updated, register your interest.
Ask a question
Our prospectus will help you explore your course options, get a feel for life as an OU student, and register for study.
Request a prospectus
This new course opens for registration in March. If you’d like us to keep you updated, register your interest.
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