Career and School Info for Producers and Directors

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Degrees and Schools

Film degree programs are the best choice for those who want to work as a director. These types of degrees are available at film schools, art and design schools and a limited number of universities. Non-degree programs are also available but students need to be careful that these programs are of high-quality. Individuals who aspire to become a producer should consider a program in business management or finance as well as coursework in film. Students who plan to earn a degree in film should make sure the school is accredited by an agency that is recognized by the US Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

Coursework

The courses listed below are examples of the types of courses that would prepare a student for a career as a director:

• documentary filmmaking
• art direction
• film sound design
• directing live television
• performance and direction
• film theory and criticism
• film styles and genres

Coursework that would be useful to a future producer would focus on business management and business finance although coursework in film production would be helpful also.

Online Classes and Programs

Given the physical requirements of film making, it is not possible to complete a degree program in this field online. However, it may be possible to take some film courses online which can then be applied towards a degree at a traditional school. Business management and finance programs are readily available in an online format.

Employment Requirements

Obtaining a job as a director or producer is very difficult and often requires individuals to work in roles they consider themselves overqualified for in order to gain experience and make contacts in the industry. To qualify for any type of director or producer job, previous experience working in the particular industry is almost always a prerequisite. Another route into these professions is to create one's own low-budget production as a way of developing experience and a portfolio of work. A degree in film or related field can also be very helpful. Producers should have education in business management or a related field.

How to Evaluate Schools and Programs

The below questions may be useful when choosing a film program:

• Instructors - What type of real-world experience do the instructors have? What do past students think about the quality of instruction?
• Internships - Does the program include an internship? What types of internship placements are available?
• Studios / Equipment - Does the school have realistic studios? Is the lighting, sound and camera equipment similar to what is used in the real-world?
• Job Placement - Does the school help students find a job after graduation? What types of positions have past graduates found?
• Accreditation - Is the school accredited by a regional accrediting agency, a national agency or no recognized agency? Will credits earned at the school be transferrable to another program?

Producers and Directors Job Description

While the movie and television industries offer exciting and creative careers, they are also industries where it can be very challenging for individuals to achieve their career goals. For those with a great deal of talent and perseverance, a career as a producer or director can be extremely rewarding. Producers and directors can work in a variety of industries including motion pictures, television and radio broadcasting, cable programming, the performing arts, advertising and public relations. Many positions are for short-term projects such as a movie, commercial or theater production. Assistant director and associate producer positions can be stepping stones towards lead director and executive producer roles.

A director's role typically includes tasks such as auditioning and selecting a cast, directing the cast and crew and reviewing set design, choreography, music and costumes. An executive producer typically takes an entrepreneurial role by taking the initiative to start a project, find a script, secure financing and hire key staff such as the director and principal cast members. Associate producer positions may be filled through a more typical employment process.

Resources

Directors Guild of America - This membership organization of movie and television directors advocates for economic and artistic rights of directors. They also have an awards program, a private screening facility and other support services for directors.

Filmmakers Alliance - This organization's membership of independent filmmakers support and assist each other in the creation of independent films.

International Federation of Film Producers Associations - FIAPF is an organization of film and television producers from 23 countries which helps formulate policies and coordinate political action. They also regulate some international film festivals.

Independent Film and Television Alliance - The IFTA advocates for independent film and television companies to protect the competitive marketplace and oppose market consolidation and other pressures on independent film makers.