Pat Higgins

From Screenplays to Self-Discovery: Upskilling Mid-Career

Pat Higgins, Programme Lead for Film and TV, made the decision to return to education after more than 16 years working in the screen industry. As an experienced screenwriter, director and educator, his motivation was not just personal development, but also a commitment to continuous growth and leading by example.

Choosing to undertake a Master’s degree in Screenwriting by research was a carefully considered decision. The course allowed him to align his studies with his professional role while taking a reflective approach to his creative practice.

“I chose a Master’s in Screenwriting by research because it fit better with my role. I knew how demanding it would be.”

For Pat, the decision was also about credibility and responsibility in his role as a programme lead. Holding a Master’s qualification allowed him to better support students, while also encouraging him to examine his own creative process in greater depth.

Applying professional discipline to learning

Balancing work and study required a structured and disciplined approach. Pat treated his academic work in much the same way as a professional project, setting deadlines, working to targets and refining his work through structured rewrites.

This approach not only helped him complete his Master’s, but also strengthened his ability to clearly articulate his creative methods. Reflecting on his own process gave him new insight into how he works and allowed him to communicate this more effectively to students.

Growth through resilience

Working in both academia and the creative industries requires resilience, something Pat has developed throughout his career. He recognises that feedback, both positive and negative, is an inevitable part of creative work.

Rather than avoiding criticism, he embraces it with perspective and humour. One memorable experience involved revisiting negative reviews in a light-hearted way, turning them into a moment of reflection rather than discouragement.

This resilience has shaped both his creative practice and his teaching, helping him guide students in navigating similar challenges.

Enhancing teaching through reflection

Completing a Master’s degree also had a direct impact on Pat’s teaching. By analysing his own methods, he moved beyond simply referencing established techniques and began delivering more personal, experience-led insight.

This has allowed him to provide students with a clearer understanding of real-world creative practice, helping them connect theory with practical application.

Adapting to a changing industry

Pat also reflects on how much the film and television industry has evolved. Advances in technology have made filmmaking more accessible, allowing anyone with the right tools to begin creating content.

He encourages students to stay informed, connect with industry professionals and understand current trends to remain competitive.

On emerging technologies such as AI, Pat takes a balanced view. While recognising its potential to remove barriers and open doors for new voices, he believes that the emotional depth of storytelling remains rooted in human experience.

Advice for the next generation

For anyone entering the industry or considering further study, Pat emphasises the importance of professionalism, collaboration and self-belief.

“Your greatest resource is yourself. Be professional, reliable, and kind. Build strong teams and bring your unique perspective.”

His guidance reflects the values that underpin both his career and his approach to teaching.

Key takeaways from Pat’s journey

• Never overlook opportunities to learn, no matter your stage in life
• Build strong relationships and treat others with respect
• Stay resilient and focused, even when facing challenges
• Continue developing your skills and reflecting on your practice