Founded in 1891 by the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths with the mission to promote “technical skill, knowledge, health and general well-being among men and women of the industrial, working and artisan classes,” Goldsmiths became part of the University of London in 1904 and achieved full college status in 1988. The university’s Screen School operates within the world-renowned Department of Media, Communications and Cultural Studies, offering MA Filmmaking programs with specialized pathways in Directing Fiction, Cinematography, Editing, and Producing, alongside MA Script Writing and Film and Screen Studies programs. Under the leadership of Warden Frances Corner and faculty including Dr. Daisy Asquith (Head of School), the institution maintains its commitment to industry-responsive education through highly qualified, industry-active, and award-winning staff and guest lecturers.
As a globally ranked institution (12th in Communication and Media Studies, 15th in Art & Design), Goldsmiths Screen School delivers cutting-edge film education that combines critical context with practical training. The programs take on board industry feedback, seeking to produce well-rounded and multi-talented graduates while respecting specialized learning. Students benefit from exciting option modules including script and project development, visual storytelling, writing for TV drama, understanding UK media industries, practical law for film and television, and social activist filmmaking, preparing them for every area of the film and television industry.
With 37% of students coming from outside the United Kingdom and 52% of undergraduates being mature students (aged 21 or over), Goldsmiths creates a vibrant, diverse community that enriches the filmmaking education experience. The university’s one-third postgraduate student population contributes to sophisticated media debates and discussions of current issues, while the international perspective ensures graduates are respected around the world and prepared for global creative industries.
Operating from the historic Richard Hoggart Building (1844) and expanded through purpose-built facilities including the RIBA award-winning Rutherford Building and the Ben Pimlott Building designed by Will Alsop, Goldsmiths combines 134 years of educational heritage with contemporary innovation. The institution’s evolution from technical institute to research university reflects its commitment to adapting creative education to meet changing industry needs while maintaining its foundational values of accessibility and practical skill development.
As a constituent research university of the University of London, Goldsmiths provides students with access to extensive academic resources and research opportunities that inform creative practice. The Screen School’s integration within the Department of Media, Communications and Cultural Studies ensures that filmmaking education is grounded in critical theory and cultural analysis, teaching students to collaborate, push boundaries, and think critically and creatively about filmmaking in contemporary social and cultural contexts.
