Leah Parkin

Learning through industry links

Design
A TV and Film Set Design student measuring props for a set.

USW starts you from scratch and offers fantastic support every step of the way.


Choosing to study TV and Film Set Design at the University of South Wales 

I'm Leah, a third-year student in TV and Film Set Design at USW. Growing up, I pursued art as a hobby while focusing on academic subjects, but my passion for visual storytelling really came alive during A-level Film Studies. Learning how elements like set decoration contribute to building worlds and driving narratives made me realise that this was what I wanted to do.

After researching and speaking with my tutors, I found USW’s course in TV Film and Set Design, which combines hands-on learning with technical skills and has strong industry connections—something that set it apart from other options.

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THE COURSE HAS GIVEN ME A BROAD RANGE OF TECHNICAL SKILLS, FROM AUTOCAD TO PHOTOSHOP, WHICH ARE ESSENTIAL FOR MY FUTURE CAREER IN SET DECORATION, GRAPHIC DESIGN, AND PROPS.

Leah Parkin

TV and Film Set Design student

Making the most of opportunities

On the course, I’ve had incredible opportunities to connect with the industry, like working on short films with MA students and attending networking events. We’ve had guest speakers who’ve worked on shows like Doctor Who, which has offered insight into real-world applications. The course has given me a broad range of technical skills, from AutoCAD to Photoshop, which are essential for my future career in set decoration, graphic design, and props.

Living in Cardiff has been ideal—it’s a creative hub but accessible and easy to navigate. I enjoy the dynamic music scene and all the nearby resources that enhance both my course and social life. For anyone considering this path, I’d say don’t worry about technical skills; USW starts you from scratch and offers fantastic support every step of the way.

Employability and Careers

Interested in Design?

Our design courses are created with industry in mind and we aim to prepare you for the workplace by the time you graduate.