masters in film production usa

Studying a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Film, Photography & Media will help you specialize in one of the popular visual arts of the present. You may study a degree that will teach you all the inner workings that make a feature movie, documentary or short film come to life. Or, study a degree in Photography, teaching you the subtleties of capturing shape, light, colour and framing them in the perfect ways. While a Media degree may explore ways of combining film and photography with other emerging visual tools such as digital integration.

Students of Film, Photography & Media degrees will attend classes covering topics such as Commercial Photography, Photojournalism, Film Interpretation, the History of Media, and more.

A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Film will explore the complex relationship between film and television, the fascinating progress of the film industry, what are the main steps of film production as well as filming techniques, tricks, and ways of interacting and communicating ideas to the audience. Some courses will also deep-dive into the main film schools throughout history and the way they have influenced movie-making art, up until the present. Explore the development of movies from silent movies, black and white films up until current day block-busters.

Photogrophy degree programmes are the first step to take for professional photogrophers and explore digital and analog photography and ways to convey powerful messages by capturing static moments. Students taking courses in Film or Photography will also understand the ways that society and culture influence media and vice-versa.

Graduates can look forward to prospective careers such as movie directing, freelance photography, photojournalism, camera operating, film and video editing, or visual effects editing.

Is a Film Degree Worth It?

Aspiring filmmakers and those who want to work in the film industry have often struggled to answer the questions, “Is a film degree worth it?” and “What can you do with a film degree?” 

On one hand, some of the world’s greatest filmmakers earned their college degrees in this field, the prestige of their education helping to pave their way to success. However, many popular independent writers and directors made their mark on the cinema scene by learning through real-world experience. 

While both approaches have their pros and cons, earning a bachelor’s degree in filmmaking often yields significantly more success in the long run. From networking opportunities to gaining hands-on experience, there’s little doubt that studying film in college provides incredible career benefits. 

Read on for everything that makes a film degree worth it.

5 REASONS TO EARN A FILM DEGREE

While every student may have their own reasons for attending film school, we’ve compiled the top five reasons why you should consider earning a film degree:

#1 You Gain Hands-On Experience

Anyone including a non-filmmaking major can pick up a camera, but that doesn’t mean they know how to use it. 

The same can be said for editing and scriptwriting software, lighting, audio equipment, and other vital elements of filmmaking and film production. When you enroll in a film degree program, you’ll gain valuable, hands-on experience with the equipment,software you need in the film industry.

Just a few examples of popular filmmaking tools that a college program will introduce you to include:

  • Editing software, particularly Adobe Premiere and Avid
  • Professional lighting, such as fresnel, LED, and arri lights
  • High-quality cameras, including Alexa, Red, and FS-100
  • VFX software, such as Adobe after effects and Autodesk Maya
  • Sound equipment, like audio recorders, shotgun microphones and lavaliers
  • Scriptwriting software, such as Celtx and Final Draft

The bottom line – Film school teaches students and film studies graduates how to use industry-standard tools. Employers prioritize candidates with this expertise during the hiring process. Without the help of a film program, you risk entering the field underprepared. 

#2 You’ll Hone Your Storytelling Ability

Film school is a fantastic opportunity to sharpen your storytelling skills and hone your critical thinking. Not only will you learn the technical elements of script writing, but film school also gives students the chance to broaden their experiences and learn about the world through others’ perspectives, giving you more to write about.

During your time in film school, students will learn about storytelling through activities such as:

  • Writing scripts and workshopping them with others 
  • Learning about story structure and creative writing
  • Watching and analyzing successful films

The bottom line – Without the experience and technical knowledge gained during college, filmmakers may never tap into their true storytelling potential. 

#3 You Create Lasting Connections

They say the film industry is all about who you know, and they’re absolutely right. What they don’t always tell you? The film industry is about who you know and how well you work with others.

Filmmaking is a team effort that involves the knowledge and skill of directors, cinematographers, camera operators, actors, and other crew. In your time at film school, you’ll learn how to:

  • Collaborate with others during production
  • Seize networking opportunities
  • Build a contact list of people you know in the industry
  • Assemble a diverse and competent cast and film crew 

The bottom line – The connections you make in a film program are not only important for current projects, but also for your future in the industry. Learning to work collaboratively is essential to a career in film, and you’ll get plenty of expertise in that area through a degree in film.

#4 You Can Build a Strong Portfolio

Demo reels, the TV and movie equivalent of a portfolio, act as an essential visual resume for filmmakers. When done well in conjunction with a strong traditional resume, they can lead to incredible opportunities and help launch a career. And what better place to build a portfolio than within the creative support system of a college’s film department?

During your time in film school, you’ll have access to professional equipment, instruction, and other essential filming resources. Through projects and assignments, you’ll have plenty of chances to hone your craft and add clips to your reel. These are some of the best opportunities to sharpen your “visual resume” before you enter the professional world. 

Note: those pursuing a career in this industry, you will need both a traditional resume to explain your experience, and a visual resume to demonstrate your aesthetic. 

After getting some practice and developing a particular style, you may begin making films in college that hold their weight in the real world. Projects you’re truly proud of can be submitted to film festivals; this is a smart strategy to help kickstart your career following graduation.

Potential careers in film that benefit from building a demo reel / visual portfolio in college include:

  • Directors
  • Writers
  • Editors
  • VFX artists
  • Cinematographers
  • Production designers
  • Stunt coordinators

The bottom line – Film school gives you access to professional equipment, affordable resources, and people who can help you work on projects, along with the incentive to shoot material in a timely fashion. This helps aspiring filmmakers build their demo reels prior to graduation, which is vital in the search for careers.

#5 You’ll Improve Your Career Outlook

Not only does film school help you in the field, but it can also aid in your post-graduate job hunt.

Listing a film degree on your resume can increase your chances of being hired by a production company, editing house, or writer’s room. This is because employers recognize the skills it takes to complete a film program. Film school also offers internship opportunities that help students break into the industry, build their resumes, and make professional connections.

The bottom line – Potential studio crew members, indie filmmakers and corporate employees alike will benefit from the experience and credentials of film school. 

What is a Bachelor in Theatre & Dance?

part of Arts, Design & Architecture

Theatre is an old form of art, dating back to antiquity. Based on the area of fiction known as drama, theatre is a complex art that combines different elements that aim to transmit a certain feeling, idea or inner state to the audience. This can be achieved through the text of the theatrical play, music, dance, mimic and various specific techniques.

Dance is an art form intended to orient and produce synchronised body movements and continuous exchange of artistic positions of the human body on a certain rhythm. Dance is strongly linked with music, emotional images and content embodiment through choreographic composition, figures and movements. Dance is used as a method of individual expression as well as a way of social communication.

Theatre and dance courses cover topics like: poetics of performance, history of dance, Greek drama, musical theatre performance, gender in dance and theatre, scene design, aspects of choreography.

Studying theatre and dance requires approaching the two art forms from an interdisciplinary, intercultural and international perspective. Students will develop analytical, technical and imaginative abilities leading to a good stage performance. Future theatre and dance professionals are creative thinkers and they have abilities in efficient oral communication, as well as abilities in gesticulation and pantomime.

Graduates may find job opportunities in areas such as: theatre direction, choreography/movement coaching, arts management, dance studios, and more.

7 Best Countries to Study Film Abroad

The film industry is expanding, and it is undeniable that the competition to break into the small circle of successful filmmakers is becoming increasingly fierce. If you want to be a filmmaker, it is understandable that you want to get the best education possible to help you land your dream job in the future. Finding a school that best fits your values and standards as a future filmmaker who will use this medium to express important social issues, give voice to the helpless, and entertain people in this fast-paced world is beneficial. Here, we will be looking at the best countries to study Film.

Filmmaking is more than just an artistic medium. Advocacy is also an important part of your job as a filmmaker, and you can take advantage of the opportunity to demonstrate how important filmmaking is to the country’s economy. You must begin somewhere that provides an endless opportunity to learn and grow, as well as all of the necessary film-making equipment. It only takes a great academy, combined with your determination and passion as a film student, for you to be successful in your career.

1. England

Known for producing the best films, they recognize every student with aptitude or potential in filmmaking. Diverse, but with the same filmmaking objective. England is the finest country to study film while enjoying the lovely cities. The tuition fee for a two-year course is around £7,200, which is higher for overseas students.

Many successful alumni have graduated from prestigious universities such as the London Film School (LFS), the National Film and Television School (NFTS), and Goldsmiths, the Screen School (Goldsmiths). All of these colleges will help you succeed in your chosen profession no matter where you end up.

2. South Korea

In addition to the booming film industry, South Korea has a thriving culture. The language barrier may be a challenge, but they also teach in English! Scholarships are available, and they operate a student exchange program or student visiting program for international students. It’ll be a perfect chance to learn about their culture and filmmaking techniques. Tuition starts at USD 2,000.

One of South Korea’s top film schools is Korea National University of Arts. Daejeon University and the Korea Film Academy follow next. Even though there aren’t many distinctions between the programs, you can pick the one that’s right for you.

3. China

China has the largest film academy in Asia that specializes in filmmaking. It has a great facility that you can use to whatever extent you want to learn and learn at your best as a student. It has been established since the 1950s, and it has been noted with its multidisciplinary way of teaching and it incorporates a variety of ways to practice creating, researching, and producing talented individuals in film-making. It will be a great experience and opportunity to learn film while also learning the culture in China. The fee starts from 80,000 CNY.

The Beijing Film Academy is the country’s sole film school. Their specialty will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of a certain filmmaking perspective. You might also use this as an opportunity to learn more about their culture and language.

4. Germany

International film students have various options in Germany, one of the best countries to study film. Depending on your visa, you can acquire a short course or a bachelor’s degree. With a tourist visa, a school like MetFilm in Berlin can offer a three-month study. It costs between €300 to €40,000 to attend a private school, but it’s free at a public school like the German Film and Television Academy Berlin GmbH. Just pay the annual registration charge of €600 (USD 735). The excellent thing is that you can work and study at the same time.

The greatest school is MetFilm School in Berlin, which is private but worth the money. The Catalyst Institute for Creative Arts and Technology offers courses for €19,236. Finally, the prestigious German Film and Television Academy.

5. Africa

African culture will help you understand the challenges and distinctions of people on the other side of the world. It allows Africans to show their passion for art while communicating directly. Unknown to the world, Africa is using film to highlight major social issues such as the right to an education, racism, environmental conservation, women and children’s rights, and other customary themes. Studying in Africa costs $8000 per year.

The National Film Institute of Jos is one of many African film schools, including the Film School of Africa, SAE Institute of South Africa, and Film School of Africa. They all understand the value of culture and art, and how they work together to make a great film.

6. Japan

Japan is recognized for its heartwarming flicks, terrifying films, and animated films. Films featuring samurai and slice of life. As a busy country, it is good to consider how accommodating they are to aspiring filmmakers who self-fund their education. Some schools also offer evening or weekend short courses. As a filmmaker, you can learn from Japan’s unique approach to filmmaking.

International students are welcome at Japan’s finest colleges, including the English Language Film School of Japan, which is considered the best school in the country for international filmmakers. The Tokyo University of the Arts and the Japan Institute of the Moving Images are both excellent options to consider as postgraduate institutions. All of these institutions are equally specialized in the field of filmmaking, making Japan an excellent country to study Film.

7. India

India’s exceptional films have attracted the world’s attention and are bringing in big bucks! India, known for its ancient epics, will undoubtedly be an excellent place to learn about making something exceptional in the style of the film. India is also a diverse nation, so communication would be easy when you start your profession. A two- to three-year education costs 38,000-2,700,000 Indian Rupees.

The Film and Television Institute of India, the Whistling Woods International, and the Asian Academy of Film and Television are among the renowned institutes in India that have achieved success in the field of film and television. These academies have produced numerous successful filmmakers who are essential to the continued success of the filmmaking industry.

What is MA Film Studies? 

MA Film Studies is a 2 year long postgraduate course. It is generally studied by the candidates who want to know about the history of Indian and world cinema, learn about the various forms and techniques of cinematography, etc. 

Most importantly, MA Film Studies candidates will be trained to critically analyse a cinematic piece through different aspects. 

To be eligible for MA Film Studies, a candidate should be a graduate in any stream from a recognised institute or university. The minimum required aggregate marks ranges between 45-55%, and varies with colleges. 

The admission is mostly granted on the basis of marks scored in the last qualifying examination. Very rarely, the colleges may also conduct written examinations. However, most colleges conduct a Group Discussion and Personal Interview round before final selection. 

A limited number of colleges offer this course in India. Some of the most prominent colleges offering MA Film Studies are tabulated below. 

College Name Location Admission Process Average Annual Fees Average Annual Salary 
Jadavpur University Kolkata Merit Based for candidates above 50% aggregate marks in graduationINR 12,000 INR 19,96,000
Mumbai University MumbaiWritten Test + GDINR 34,405INR 3,20,000 
Ambedkar University Delhi Written Test + PI INR 59,760INR 3,00,000 
West Bengal State University Barasat Merit Based INR 12,050INR 3,00,000 
Thunchath Ezhuthachan Malayalam UniversityMalappuram Merit Based INR 5,900INR 3,25,000 

The average fees charged by the colleges for MA Film Studies in India ranges between INR 10,000 to 1,00,000. The government universities charge less fees than the private universities. 

The candidates completing MA Film Studies get multiple employment options. They can work as Bloggers, Editors in Film Magazines, Film Critics, Script Writers, Production Managers, and many other roles. 

What is the MA Film Studies Admission Process? 

Admission to MA Film Studies in many colleges is merit based. But, many colleges conduct written tests, GDs and Personal Interviews for final selection. 

Also, many colleges like Jadavpur University grant direct admission to candidates with good marks, but conduct an admission process for the rest. 

The admission process is briefly discussed below. 

  • Step 1: Application: The candidates will have to apply to the colleges. The application forms are usually available online. 
  • Step 2: Shortlisting of Candidates: The colleges will shortlist the candidates on the basis of marks in graduation. Accordingly, the students may either be given direct admission, or, the eligible candidates will be called for further rounds of selection. 
  • Step 3: Written Test: Some colleges take a written test of the shortlisted candidates. The questions are generally asked on various events, history and types of synema, along with some Aptitude and GK questions. 
  • Step 4: Group Discussion and Personal Interview: GD and PI rounds are generally common for admission to MA Film Studies course. These rounds check the communication skills, knowledge of the candidates and also the future plans of the candidates. 
  • Step 5: Enrollment: The candidates who clear all the rounds will be enrolled for the course. 

What is the MA Film Studies Eligibility Criteria?

To be eligible for MA Film Studies, the candidates must qualify the following eligibility criteria. 

  • The candidates should be a graduate from a recognised university. They can be from any stream. 
  • The minimum required marks in graduation varies between 45% to 55%.
  • Some colleges grant direct admissions to candidates with marks above 50% while conducting written tests for others.

Is There Any MA Film Studies Entrance Exam for Admission to?

There is no entrance exam for MA Film Studies course. However, some of the colleges like Mumbai University and Ambedkar University will conduct a written test of the shortlisted candidates before final selection. 

How to Get Admission in Top MA Film Studies Colleges?

To get admission in top MA Film Studies colleges, the following points must be kept in mind. 

  • The candidates must score well in graduation. Sometimes, the candidates with higher marks are offered direct admission without further selection rounds. 
  • The candidates must increase their ideas on the history of films, all the major events in the history of cinema, and the major aspects of cinema. This will help them in cracking the written exams easily. 
  • The candidates must prepare well for the Group Discussion and Personal Interview rounds. They should work on their communication skills, behaviour and overall presentation. 
  • The candidates must be aware of all the important current affairs. They should regularly read newspapers for the same. 
  • The candidates must fill the application forms carefully and check that there are mistakes before submitting. 

MA Film Studies: What is it About? 

MA Film Studies discusses different types, forms, history and events of cinema in Great detail. 

  • MA Film Studies will let the students know about the forms of cinema, various mediums of cinema, and how cinema impacts our culture. 
  • Through this course the candidates will learn to analyse the script and sequences of a cinema, their overall impact and faults and beauty underlining in it. 
  • This will help them in mastering the film criticism through various technically correct and scientific approaches. 
  • The course will also teach the students about various procedures involved in film making, film editing, dubbing, Audio-visual effects, and other areas of film production. 
  • The candidates will be able to appreciate the relationship between the cinema and the society. They will also be able to understand how cinema evolved with time and become one of the major art forms. 
  • Along with the processes, the course will also discuss the various film theories and philosophy of cinema. 
  • After completing MA Film Studies course, the candidates will become completely aware of all the fundamentals of cinema, media and their importance. 

MA Film Studies: Course Highlights

The major highlights of the MA Film Studies course have been tabulated below. 

Full-FormMaster of Arts in Film Studies 
Level of StudyPost Graduate 
Course Duration2 years 
EligibilityGraduate in any Stream 
Admission ProcessMostly Merit Based 
Examination typeSemester 
Average Annual FeeINR 10,000 to 1,00,000 
Average SalaryINR 4,00,000 to 6,00,000 
Job OptionsBloggers, Editors in Film Magazines, Film Critics, Script Writers, Production Managers in Film Studios, and many other roles
Areas of EmploymentNewspapers, Magazines, Film Production House, etc. 

Why Study MA Film Studies? 

You should consider studying MA Film Studies because of the following reasons. 

  • The candidates who are really passionate about knowing the history of cinema, the evolution of cinema with time, should consider studying this course. 
  • The candidates studying this course will have a deep knowledge of every process involved in filming. So, these candidates can easily work as Production Managers, assistant Production Managers and similar jobs in various film studios. 
  • The candidates will also learn to critically analyse a movie, so these candidates will easily get work as film critics in various newspapers, film blogs and magazines. 
  • Also, the candidates can start their own blogs, or work as editors in various websites publishing film related news. 
  • The salary offered to MA Film Studies candidates is quite good. The candidates get an average salary of INR 4,00,000 to 6,00,000 per annum.
  • Not only this, the candidates who want to write their own books on film industries and other film related aspects, will find this course extremely beneficial. 

Course Comparison: MA Film Studies vs MA Film Making 

While MA Film Studies give equal importance to every aspect of cinema, MA Film Making gives main emphasis to the various processes involved in the making of the film. The two courses have been compared in the table below. 

Parameters MA Film Studies MA Film Making 
Full Form Master of Arts in Film Studies Master of Arts in Filmmaking
Overview This course involves a detailed study of History, Evolution, Forms, Medium, Style and Impact of cinema, along with the processes involved in film making. This course largely concentrates on the processes involved in the making of film, along with the various art forms involved in film making, various techniques such as effects, setups, etc. 
Duration 2 years2 years
Eligibility Graduate in any Stream Graduate in any Stream 
Admission Process Mostly Merit BasedMerit Based 
Examination Type SemesterSemester
Top Colleges Jadavpur University, Ambedkar University, etc. Manipal Academy of Higher Education
Average Annual Fees INR 10,000 to 1,00,000 INR 1,25,000 
Job ProfilesBloggers, Editors in Film Magazines, Film Critics, Script Writers, Production Managers in Film Studios, and many other rolesProduction Managers in Film Studios, Assistant Producers, Assistant Directors, etc. 
Average Annual Salary INR 4,00,000 to 6,00,000 INR 5,00,000 to 8,00,000 

18 Masters Programs in Television Studies

Obtaining a Master in Television Studies requires extensive study through an accredited university program. Students wishing to increase their career opportunities upon graduation should consider the many options available to them from one institution to the next.

What is a Master in Television Studies? Students with creative minds and a passion for film often find that they are drawn towards the TV and film industries. Pursuing post graduate education in television often includes the study of digital film, the history of television and filmmaking, as well as the social and political aspects of film and how they affect audiences. Within television studies, students can choose more specific areas of study that appeal to their individual talents and interests.

By obtaining a master level education in television studies, students can gain the hands-on experience needed to make an impact in today’s TV and film industry. Post-grad educational study can open new doors for networking and career building.

When trying to plan ahead for the cost of a Master in Television Studies program, it is important that students understand the varying tuition rates that are in place from one institution to the next. The price of tuition can vary vastly in different regions of the world, and this may be due to factors such as program popularity, institution size, or esteemed instruction. Students can work with a financial advisor at their school of interest to determine the cost of completing their chosen program.

After graduation, students can seek employment in fields such as screenwriting, set design for television or theater, and film production. The opportunities within the television industry are endless, with dozens of individuals needed on a single set to produce a television show or feature film. For students with an interest in enhancing their knowledge of television and related technologies, learning more about a Master in Television Studies program may help them to select the right major within the field.

Obtaining a Master in Television Studies requires extensive study through an accredited university program. Students wishing to increase their career opportunities upon graduation should consider the many options available to them from one institution to the next.

What is a Master in Television Studies? Students with creative minds and a passion for film often find that they are drawn towards the TV and film industries. Pursuing post graduate education in television often includes the study of digital film, the history of television and filmmaking, as well as the social and political aspects of film and how they affect audiences. Within television studies, students can choose more specific areas of study that appeal to their individual talents and interests.

By obtaining a master level education in television studies, students can gain the hands-on experience needed to make an impact in today’s TV and film industry. Post-grad educational study can open new doors for networking and career building.

When trying to plan ahead for the cost of a Master in Television Studies program, it is important that students understand the varying tuition rates that are in place from one institution to the next. The price of tuition can vary vastly in different regions of the world, and this may be due to factors such as program popularity, institution size, or esteemed instruction. Students can work with a financial advisor at their school of interest to determine the cost of completing their chosen program.

After graduation, students can seek employment in fields such as screenwriting, set design for television or theater, and film production. The opportunities within the television industry are endless, with dozens of individuals needed on a single set to produce a television show or feature film. For students with an interest in enhancing their knowledge of television and related technologies, learning more about a Master in Television Studies program may help them to select the right major within the field.

MA in Television Fiction Writing

GCU – Glasgow School for Business and SocietyGlasgow, United KingdomWith a wealth of commissions and creative opportunities, TV is where most screenwriters work. Taught by professional writers, you’ll work on the scripts from series currently on British TV gaining the knowledge, skills & contacts to succeed in the industry.

Master in Assembly

ESCAC – Escuela superior de Cinema y Audivisuales de catalunyaBarcelona, SpainThe film montage has evolved enormously in parallel to the film language itself. Thanks to technical advances, it has ceased to be the invisible element of classical cinema to become one of the expressive tools. 

Master of Fine Arts in Writing for Film and Television

Emerson CollegeBoston, USAEmerson’s low-residency Writing for Film and Television MFA teaches you to write for film, television, and other emergent forms of media across multiple genres. Build a professional-caliber writing portfolio with original feature, pilot, and short screenplay samples. Our faculty consists of filmmakers, producers, screenwriters, and theorists who will mentor and guide you through your online courses. Each semester begins with a six-day residency on our Boston or Los Angeles campus, where you’ll participate in workshops, screenings, lectures, and a Master Class with a guest lecturer. Previous lecturers have included Krista Vernoff, Showrunner for Grey’s Anatomy, David Magee, Writer of Life of Pi, Mara Brock Akil, Creator of Being Mary Jane, and more.

Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Motion Pictures & Television

Academy of Art University

Academy of Art UniversitySan Francisco, USAThe School of Motion Pictures & Television’s MFA program offers in-depth, advanced training in the various areas of film and television production. Depending on the area of specialization, the MFA program culminates in a thesis film or professional reel/portfolio. Areas of study include directing, producing, cinematography, editing, production design, and screenwriting. Students are prepared to compete for work in the industry or to teach, as the MFA is a terminal degree.

5 REASONS TO EARN A GRADUATE DEGREE IN FILM PRODUCTION

A Master of Arts or Master of Fine Arts in Film and Television Production is an advanced degree that allows you to develop the skills needed to succeed in the film industry while honing your craft, building critical experience, and forming connections that will serve you in your career. Earning an MA or MFA in film and television production can be a strategic move that helps kickstart your career and places you at the forefront of a competitive industry.

Here are five reasons why earning your MA or MFA in film and television production is the next best step to kickstart your career.

1. BUILD A PROFESSIONAL PORTFOLIO

Breaking into the film industry requires a lot of hard work. While a graduate degree is not required to work in the industry or on a set, it does give you a competitive edge over others vying for the same jobs by giving you the opportunity to build a professional portfolio before beginning your career. As you earn your graduate degree, you’ll complete the elements needed to put together a comprehensive professional portfolio that you can use in interviews and pitches following graduation.

2. GAIN HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE

Writing screenplays, being present on a set, working with a crew, standing behind the camera — when you earn your graduate degree in film, you’ll gain experience working in every area of film and tv production. You will be able to try your hand at different parts of the filmmaking process and see what it’s really like to work in the industry. The experience you’ll gain will empower you with the skills you need to be a valuable part of any team and give you the confidence you need to break out on your own and make your unique mark on the field.

3. CREATE LASTING CONNECTIONS

In the film industry, having the right connections can make a lasting impact on the direction and success of your career. Throughout a graduate program in film studies, you will have the opportunity to develop important connections with industry professionals that can help guide you to success. You’ll also make connections through film festivals and other opportunities to showcase your work. Perhaps most importantly, your professors and fellow students will become a close-knit, lifelong support system who will be a source of wisdom and encouragement throughout your career and beyond.

4. HONE YOUR STORYTELLING ABILITY

Do you have a burning desire to share great stories? Do you have great stories to tell and all you need are the knowledge and resources to turn them into reality? While pursuing a graduate film degree, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to hone your ability to craft stories, share your ideas, and watch them come to life. You’ll be able to collaborate with fellow students to create engaging, powerful, and meaningful productions.

5. IMPROVE YOUR JOB OUTLOOK

Due to the increasing demand for video content across a growing number of industries and platforms, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that careers in the film and television industry are expected to grow as fast or much faster than the national average for all jobs. A rigorous graduate degree program will help you develop the expertise and credibility needed to bypass entry-level jobs and be prepared to land a mid-level career right out of graduate school.

What Can You Do With a Film Degree?

When you hear the term film, you probably imagine the Hollywood walk of fame, the Oscars and the glamor of the silver screen. It’s true, films have been around for decades, and there seems to be no end in sight for the public’s love of movies. After all, stories and narratives are practically hard-wired into American culture. 

The film industry, however, is much more complex, diverse and widespread than you may realize.

A film degree is valuable, but an aspiring filmmaker might wonder “Is a film degree worth it?” and “What can you do with a college degree in film?” The answer is actually quite a lot. From directing to editing to being a critic, read on for everything you can do with a film degree.

WHAT IS FILM STUDIES?

Film studies as part of media studies is a broad program that covers everything related to the art of moving images. From cinema to television, as well as video art, social media and advertisements—a program in film studies will explore how the world of film goes beyond the confines of your local movie theater.

At North Central College, for example, students can pursue a minor in film & screen studies. This program focuses on both the technical and creative aspects of film, from production to analysis (and everything in between).

If you’re interested in one of the many careers that fall under this umbrella, it’s important to understand what this degree will entail:

Coursework

In addition to their major and electives, students at North Central College who pursue a minor in film & screen studies can expect to take the following core courses:

  • Introduction to Film and Screen – The introductory class focuses on the critical analysis of classic and contemporary films. Weekly screenings and discussions will make up a majority of this four-credit course.
  • History of American Film – This course delves into the history, impact and evolution of American cinema. Weekly screenings and discussions will also make up a majority of this four-credit class, as well.
  • History of Global Film – In addition to American cinema, film studies students will also gain a deeper understanding of the global film industry. Weekly screening, readings and scholarly discussions make up a majority of this four-credit course.
  • Film Theory and Criticism – This four-credit course analyzes the theoretical models and strategies found in cinema. Students will discuss the various social, political and psychological models that many films are based around.  

Concentrations

Core classes are important for a general understanding of film, but concentrations are also vital for a successful career post-graduation. This is because filmmaking requires many different jobs, and students in the film studies degree program may be interested in a specific concentration within this field, such as:

  • Editing
  • Writing
  • Directing
  • Analysis
  • Animation
  • Lighting
  • Cinematography
  • Sound design

At most schools, students can customize their film studies degree by adding electives to their class schedule. Some of the most common elective options at North Central include:

  • TV Form: History and Theory – This course outlines the impact and theories developed throughout the history of modern television.
  • Video Storytelling I – This introductory course teaches students the basics of video production, including shooting, editing and audio. 
  • Screenwriting – This course covers every step of the screenwriting process, from pre-writing research to plot analysis and character development. Students will also learn the dynamics of the screenwriting industry, including the Writers Guild of America formatting guidelines and obtaining an agent. 
  • Introduction to Digital Audio – In this elective course, students will learn the principles of digital audio recording, production and editing.
  • Introduction to Acting – Students with previous acting experience will gain a deeper understanding of the craft through exercises, theory analysis and scene productions.
  • Directing – This class will teach students the basics of directing through theater exercises, techniques and groundwork with other students.
  • Animation I: Methods and Story – In this class, students will study the unique storytelling techniques used in 2D computer animation and the technical skills needed to bring these stories to life.

Skills Gained with a Film Degree

A film studies major or minor will teach students a wide variety of filmmaking techniques, in order to fully prepare them for a career in the field. Core and elective courses alike will focus on valuable skills used in the film industry, such as:

  • Script structure
  • Networking and collaboration
  • Story analysis
  • Proficiency in editing software
  • Camera equipment and shooting techniques

WHAT CAREERS CAN FILM GRADUATES PURSUE?

As previously stated, film majors are not limited to any one film job in this diverse industry. Each crew member plays a valuable role in the production and completion of a film or video project. This means a film studies graduate has a plethora of options for their career path. Some of the most common positions that film majors go on to include:

Director

Film majors pursue a career as a director in several different genres. In addition to feature films, directing positions are also prevalent in the world of television, theater, music videos and more. 

Directors play an important role in the style, pacing and performances within these productions. As a director, you’ll be in charge of the set, working with actors, crew members and even the editor in post-production.

Not only is this film career rewarding, but it also comes with reliable pay. The average salary for a film director in the U.S. is $70,000 per year, and big-budget Hollywood directors typically earn quite a bit more. 

Writer

Students who study film will also learn the valuable writing skills needed to create these stories. Some graduates pursue screenwriting in motion picture and television, while others may use their writing experience for blogs, copywriting or manuscripts. 

The average salary for a screenwriter in the U.S. is around $80,000 per year, and many writers may go on to join the Writers Guild of America, which provides coveted union benefits and steady work. 

Editor

Editors are an essential part of all video production. While some film majors may edit feature-length movies as a career, others work in television, YouTube, and social media marketing. As an editor, you’ll have a major influence on the post-production process. From the pacing to the visual effects, editors are responsible for a wide range of creative elements. 

The average salary for a film editor in the U.S. is around $50,000 per year. Assistant and junior editing jobs allow recent graduates to break into the industry more easily, and learn from their superiors. 

Animator

Film majors who want to utilize their visual art skills can pursue a career in animation. Animation is prevalent in the feature film industry, as well as advertising, short film and television. 

Animators use many of the same principles as live-action film makers, such as:

  • Storyboarding
  • Framing
  • Coloring
  • Editing
  • Shot lists
  • Lighting

Additionally, animation expands the possibilities of storytelling and can often be done with a tighter budget, fewer actors and a smaller amount of equipment. The average salary for an animator in the U.S. is around $60,000 to 70,000 per year.

Commercials

Advertising is a major aspect of video production that many people overlook. The commercials you see on a daily basis are written, produced, and filmed by professionals in the industry. 

Film majors can use their creative talents and production knowledge to enter this field and begin an exciting career in short-form video production. Advertising also pays quite a bit, with commercial directors earning an average salary of $130,000 to 140,000 per year. If you’re looking to join an industry with ample opportunities, advertising is an excellent option for film studies graduates.

Film Critic

Film students earn valuable analysis skills during their education, and these skills can be put to use as a film critic. It’s crucial for film critics to understand the principles of filmmaking, storytelling and even technical knowledge, such as cinematography and lighting. This is a great career path for graduates who prefer the analytical aspects of cinema, rather than working on set or in post-production. 

The average salary for a film critic in the U.S. ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year. Film critics may be employed by media companies, magazines, and newspapers, or digital publications. 

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