MAVirtual Production
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- 1 year full-time
- 2 years part-time
Why study a virtual production master's degree at Solent University
Explore, experiment and learn industry skills to become a trailblazer in virtual production (VP) and extended reality (XR) using our VP volume, XR green screen studio and Vicon mocap and body scanner.
- 0thUK uni for sustained employment (Longitudinal Educational Outcomes, 2022)
- £0minvested in our campus estate and facilities in the last five years
- Learn in a supportive, evolving environment that adapts to the latest trends in virtual production, offering mentorship and tailored training to help you achieve your unique career goals.
- You'll have access to Solent's virtual production stage from day one - the only stage of its size and specification in the region and one of only five in the country installed in a university.
- The course will equip you with essential research and academic skills, which could help you pursue a PhD or an academic career
- This course is eligible for a Postgraduate Master's student loan from Student Finance England and can be used to cover costs (ie, accommodation, tuition fees) associated with postgraduate studies.
- Every student at Solent University will also have the option to study an additional Certificate in Practical Artificial Intelligence qualification alongside their course. Free of charge, the course ensures you'll be prepared for a fantastic and varied career after graduation.
Course overview
Throughout this course, you'll be immersed in both the artistic and technical sides of virtual production, gaining hands-on experience to build your skills and confidence in a dynamic, real-world setting.
You'll develop a diverse skill set with industry-style projects that blend artistic vision and technical proficiency, preparing you for a wide range of roles in virtual production and media.
The course will encourage you to push the boundaries of virtual production by conducting research into new methodologies and allowing you to contribute fresh ideas and advance the future of the industry.
You'll also have the opportunity to collaborate across disciplines with fellow students from diverse creative and technical backgrounds, working together to solve complex production challenges and bring innovative ideas to life.
Any questions?
Contact international admissions
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Apply direct
You can apply direct to Solent University for this course
Part-time option
You can study this course part-time
Specialist facilities
This course has access to specialist facilities
This course is for
The MA Virtual Production is for industry professionals and graduates from the film, TV, VFX, games, or related sectors. Applicants should have a portfolio of related work to show at interview.
What this course leads to
The course is designed to be flexible to allow students to follow many different career paths in virtual production.
- VP producer
- VP stage operator
- VP production engineer
- VP technical director
- VP artist
- VP lighting technician
Meet the team
The University cannot guarantee any particular members of staff will teach specific aspects of the course in the future, but will endeavour to ensure the teaching team maintains their balance of experience and qualifications.
Facilities
You'll have access to Solent's virtual production stage from day one - the only stage of its size and specification in the region and one of only five in the country installed in a university. In addition, Solent’s media academy offers a comprehensive media loans scheme, giving students free access to a range of modern filmmaking equipment including high-definition (HD) video cameras and DSLR full-frame cameras.
Away from studying, why not try out the gyms, fitness studios and sports halls in our £28 million Sports Complex, or watch a blockbuster film at our student-run cinema with Dolby Atmos audio.
Year one
Core modules
Virtual Production Pipelines
In this module, you'll develop practical expertise in virtual production techniques through hands-on learning. You'll actively engage in the creation and manipulation of virtual production elements, applying theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios.
Virtual Cinematography
In this module, you'll develop a deep understanding of cinematographic techniques in virtual production by encouraging creative exploration. You'll be supported to apply innovative visual storytelling methods to your cinematographic work to create compelling and visually rich narratives within virtual production environments.
Master's Project Proposal and Development
In this module you will plan and prepare an academic proposal for your masters project or dissertation. You will be taught how to successfully define, research and prepare for a substantial project or dissertation that will bring to life research in interdisciplinary creative practice. Traditional research-based skills and knowledge will be explored in relation to contemporary research methodologies.
Professional Practice
The aim of the module is to equip you with an in-depth knowledge of the virtual production industry and support you in gaining the insight and understanding to enable you to plan your long-term career.
Master's Project
In this module you'll design, execute and present an individually demanding piece of work that deploys a systematic and in-depth understanding of the skills and debates relevant to virtual production.
Learning resources
At Solent, our aim is to deliver innovative, inclusive and intellectually stimulating teaching to develop self-confident and highly employable graduates. All our courses are designed with employability in mind, which makes industry-based learning a priority.
Learn transferable skills
You will be supported to develop a range of transferable skills throughout the course. This includes programming, project management, problem-solving, analytical skills, technical writing, teamwork, communication and presentation skills.
These transferable skills empower you to work in a range of different industries after graduation. The course will also equip you with research and academic skills helping those who wish to pursue a PhD or an academic career.
Why choose a career in virtual production?
As the entertainment industry rapidly evolves, virtual production (VP) is becoming essential to the creation of innovative, high-quality content. There is a growing demand for professionals who can harness these tools across film, television, gaming, and live events. The rise of VP is reshaping how stories are told, creating new career opportunities for those who can blend technical expertise with creative vision.
The increasing adoption of VP across industries means there's a critical need for skilled professionals who can work collaboratively across diverse teams encompassing the virtual and the real. Â As more studios and production companies turn to virtual production for its flexibility, cost efficiency, and sustainability, the demand for experts in this field is stronger than ever. A career in virtual production not only offers the chance to work on high-profile projects but also positions professionals at the forefront of an industry in need of innovative talent.
Solent Careers
The Solent Careers team is committed to getting students into great careers.
While you are studying, the team can help you with finding work experience or placements, link you with a mentor, check your CV, or offer one-to-one guidance.
If you're in your final year, we also have graduate job opportunities just for Solent graduates.
6th
UK uni for sustained employment
Longitudinal Educational Outcomes, 2022
Alumni network
As part of our global alumni community, you can take advantage of a range of benefits.
Whether it's been days or decades since you left us, or you're soon to don your cap and gown, things are constantly changing at Solent. We're always innovating, but we're also immensely proud of our heritage. And that means you.
Research and knowledge exchange
Research doesn't just live in publications and journals - the effects of groundbreaking research can be found everywhere you look. That's why research at Solent has always been firmly rooted in industry needs and real-world application.
Solent University prides itself on carrying out not only pioneering research, but also research that addresses real world problems. We offer opportunities to study for a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in a number of areas.
At Solent, we want to help you achieve your best and discover new insights. Whether you're thinking about applying for a PhD, or already underway with your research studies, you'll find useful guidance and information in our research pages.
Research at SolentTuition fees
The tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year are:
- UK and Channel Island full-time fees: £9,125 per year
- International full-time fees: £17,780 per year
For further information, please visit our tuition fees page.
Alumni discount
Solent alumni are eligible for a 20% reduction of tuition fees if returning to study a postgraduate course.
Find out moreBursaries, scholarships and financial support
Solent University offers a range of bursaries and scholarships that provide financial assistance or waive fees for tuition or accommodation. Each bursary or scholarship has specific eligibility criteria. Check out our bursaries and scholarships pages to find out more.
Cost of living support
At Solent, we understand that the cost of living crisis may be of some concern. To help, we've put together some detailed information to show what support is available and how to make your money go further.
Graduation costs
There is no charge to attend graduation, but you will be required to pay for the rental of your academic gown (approximately £45 per graduate, depending on your award). You may also wish to purchase official photography packages, which range in price from £15 to £200+. Graduation is not compulsory, so if you prefer to have your award sent to you, there is no cost. Extra guest tickets will go on sale after results publication and will be sold on a first-come-first-served basis. The cost per ticket is currently £15. Please note, we do not guarantee there will be any extra tickets available to purchase.
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Entry requirements
Please select an option below:
Key entry requirements
Honours degree at 2:2 or higher in a relevant discipline
- Or, 2:1 in a non-relevant subject area.
- Alternatively, applicants may be considered with relevant industry experience..
- Applicants must attend an interview as part of the application process.
- An example of creative portfolio will be requested at the point of application.
Key entry requirements
If you are applying from outside the UK, find information about entry requirements, visas and agents for your country here.
For further information about UK, EU and international qualifications, please contact admissions.
Key entry requirements
If you are applying from outside the UK, find information about entry requirements, visas and agents for your country here.
For further information about UK, EU and international qualifications, please contact admissions.
Note to all international students requiring a visa
All international applicants need to be aware that the English language requirements to attend Solent University, and the English language requirements to obtain a visa from the Home Office, may be different. This means that if you meet the Solent University language requirement to gain a place on the course, you may still have to meet additional requirements to be granted with a visa by the Home Office.
We strongly advise all applicants to visit the Home Office website which outlines all the requirements for a successful visa application and to take a look at our course entry statement document.
An honours degree at2:2 or higher
Any questions?
Contact international admissions
Email:Â Call:ÂYour application checklist
Applications for postgraduate courses can be made at any time prior to the start of the course. However, we strongly recommend you apply at your earliest convenience.
Please ensure you upload the following mandatory documents with your application:
- Two academic references.
- Certified transcripts of qualifications, including English language proficiency if non-UK student.
- Copy of passport.
- Copy of current visa (if applicable).
- A personal statement.
- Employer sponsor form, where appropriate.
Language requirements
Applicants who do not have English as their first language will be required to demonstrate an approved level of proficiency in the use of the English language. The agreed minimum requirements for this course are:
- IELTS minimum 6.5 overall with no component score below 5.5
- TOEFL IBT 92 with a minimum of 22 in writing and a minimum of 20 in reading, listening and speaking
- Duolingo English Language Test - 115 overall with minimum of 100 in each component or equivalent.
Qualifications are checked before enrolment, and international students must bring their original certificates or certified copies when coming to study at the University.
Pre-Sessional English programme
The University also offers a pre-sessional English programme for international students who wish to improve their level of English before starting a degree course.
Study options
Make your application
- 1 year full-time
- 2 years part-time
