Film and Media Degrees
Film and video producers, directors and editors are involved with the creation of movies, television programs, commercials and corporate, educational and music videos. Film degree programs teach students to produce, shoot, direct and edit these productions. Depending on the program, students may also learn screenwriting, digital production skills and art direction. Film degree programs can be found under various names such as Film and Media Studies, Film and Television, Cinematography and Digital Video Production.
Jobs in the movie and television industries are extremely competitive so new graduates may need to start in positions they feel overqualified for, as a way to get their foot in the door. Others may want to work on independent projects to gain experience and build a portfolio of work.
Degree Options
- Associate's Degree - Associate's degree programs in film teach the basics of film and video production needed for entry-level jobs such as camera operator, editor or production assistant.
- Bachelor's Degree - Bachelor's degrees will prepare students for various entry-level jobs in movie and television production or to work on their own independent projects.
- Master's Degree - Master's degree programs provide a broader range of training which may include courses in business, digital filmmaking and screenwriting.
Schools
Film programs are offered at specialized film schools, art and design schools and a few universities.
Coursework
Some of the types of courses that will be taken in a film degree program may include:
- Television and Cultural Studies
- Digital Media
- Editing and Visual Effects
- Lighting
- Documentary Filmmaking
- Sound for Film
- High Definition Production
- Art Direction
- Storyboarding
- Screenwriting
Aptitudes and Interests
Those considering a program in film should be able to work best in stressful situations since limited time and budget are the norm for most jobs. The ability to work well with many types of people and personalities is also a necessary skill. But most of all, because of the freelance nature of film professions, individuals need to remain committed to their goals despite the difficulty of finding ideal projects to work on.
Career Options
Most film professionals work on a freelance basis, either on a particular movie project, television show, commercial or video project. Those just starting out may fill roles such as associate, assistant or line producer, assistant director and editor. The types of projects they may work on include:
- Commercials
- Movies
- Documentaries
- Television shows
- Corporate training videos
- Educational videos
Related Programs
Other programs that are similar to a film degree program include:
- Screenwriting
- Acting
- Photography
- Theater Arts
How to Evaluate Film Degree Programs
When selecting an film degree program, the following factors should be considered:
- Type of Curriculum - Programs vary in the type of curriculum they offer; some programs are more heavily focused on classroom learning while others spend more time with hands-on work.
- Studios and Equipment - Good film degree programs will have realistic film studios and real-world equipment that is the same as used to make professional movies and television shows.
- Career Support - Programs that have success helping students find internships and jobs upon graduation should be given special consideration.
Resources
American Federation of Television and Radio Artists
Association of Independent Commercial Producers
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