How to Become a Film Director
Film and movie directors have the opportunity to tell stories the way they imagine them. Since film directors seldom follow a traditional career path, there are no set education requirements. However, educational programs, which offer access to the latest lights, cameras, and filmmaking technology, are available at many U.S. colleges and universities. Many also gain experience through independent projects. Read on to learn more about the educational requirements for becoming a film director.
| Required Education | None; bachelor's and master's degree programs exist |
| Other Requirements | Significant relevant experience |
| Projected Growth (2018-2028)* | 5% (for all producers and directors) |
| Median Salary (2018)* | $71,680 (for all producers and directors) |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Film Director Education Requirements
Some film and movie directors never spent a day in a university or film school. While film directors do not have set requirements for employment, educational programs have much to offer to aspiring directors. An education in film studies and techniques may provide valuable training to a budding film and movie director.
Enrolling in a film studies program at a university, college, technical or vocational school can teach film directors much about filmmaking and the industry. Whether learning about the technical aspects of filmmaking, analyzing trends in the movie industry, or making contacts to assist in career development, film directors can gain skills and preparation for a film career.
What Subjects Are Needed to Become a Film Director?
Common courses in film studies programs include cinematography, the history of filmmaking, screenwriting and script development, directing techniques, and editing. Some schools offer online media production classes that can provide useful knowledge for prospective film directors. For those interested in the editing side of film production, master's degree programs in film and video editing can provide a thorough education in all aspects of the editing process; this degree can be useful for directors as well. Read on for more details about degree programs in film studies.
Film Degrees
How Long is Film School?
Both bachelor's and master's level degrees in film are available. A bachelor's program typically takes 4 years to complete, while a master's program requires a bachelor's degree (in film or another field) and then takes an additional 2-3 years of study. The following sections detail what students can expect in each of these programs:
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film
Film degree programs often confer a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), and these programs teach students about filmmaking through four years of education. Several schools offer programs that focus on film direction. Students learn filmmaking history and techniques. Their education often focuses on the elements of successful filmmaking, including plot, character development and style. Film criticism is also covered, usually through reading and discussing the works of acknowledged experts in the field. Common courses include screenwriting, cinematic storytelling, film language, film history, and movie editing principles.
Master of Fine Arts in Film Directing
Advanced directing programs, such as a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Film Directing, offer students the opportunity to take part in several aspects of film production. This includes everything from writing and editing to cinematography and digital effects.
Students are required to be well-versed in every aspect of filmmaking. Usually, each graduating class will shoot several short films during the program, allowing students to work in each position of a film crew. These 3-year programs often feature a professional internship opportunity, which is invaluable for contacts and career development. Common courses include script development, directing seminars, directing techniques, and production theories.
Career Development
With relatively inexpensive modern digital cameras and editing software available on home computers, filmmaking and directing has never been more accessible. Most directors must work their way up, sometimes by directing commercials or music videos for local bands. Others seek out financing for independent films and submit their works to festivals, hoping to generate positive word of mouth.
Continuing education, such as the assistant director-training program at the Directors Guild of America, offers more opportunities for film directors to learn the craft. Since it is often said that, 'it's not what you know, but who you know,' continuing education can also offer valuable contacts which can help directors grow their careers.
Career Outlook for Film Directors
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that directing and producing jobs will increase 5% between 2018-2028, which was about as fast as average compared to other occupations. In May 2018, directors and producers in the motion picture and video industries earned a median annual salary of $71,680, according to the BLS.
