Essential Information
Certificate programs in filmmaking allow students to learn about the creation, production and editing of short films. Bachelor's degree programs take a similar approach to introducing students to filmmaking, as well as provide instruction on film history and trends. Usually only a high school education is necessary for enrollment in these undergraduate programs.
Master's degree programs take a broad approach to the skills taught, but students usually focus on a particular type of film, such as animation or documentaries. They often complete several films during the course of their study, and gain experience through internships or work-study opportunities. Applicants to master's programs must have a bachelor's degree in a related field. Schools that limit enrollment to graduate filmmaking programs might require experience and work samples.
Certificate Program in Filmmaking
Many schools offer certificate programs in one or more of a variety of disciplines within the filmmaking industry, such as digital filming, broadcasting, screenwriting and production. Little to no education or experience in the field is required prior to enrollment. Filmmaking certificate programs are project-based, requiring students to tackle all aspects of creating short films. Most certificate programs can be completed in a year or less through part-time or evening coursework. Some programs might offer internship opportunities. Courses are designed to give students practical experience in how a film is created from start to finish. Classes and project lectures cover topics, such as:
- Film idea development
- Directing aesthetics
- Film editing
- Film technology
- Digital and 16mm videography
Bachelor's Degree in Filmmaking
Film schools offer both academic Bachelor of Arts and professional Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees in filmmaking or cinema. Bachelor's degrees are four-year programs that cover the process of filmmaking in a comprehensive manner to allow students to make an informed career choice. Unlike certificate programs, bachelor's programs place an emphasis on both the history and current trends in American and foreign films. Students are encouraged to study technology and broaden their creative skills. At the bachelor's level, most schools cover filmmaking in production and critical studies formats, as well as touch on business and financial aspects of the industry. Students might be required to complete an internship as part of the program. Course subjects could include:
- Documentary film history
- Critical study discussion workshops
- Contemporary animation techniques
- Sound and editing
- Cinematography
- Film budgeting
Master's Degree in Filmmaking
Graduate studies in filmmaking are generally two years in length and tend to focus on a specific film type. Students are encouraged to specialize in a particular concentration, such as documentaries, animated films, shorts or full-length features. Master's students often complete several projects and could participate in work-study or internship programs through production companies or abroad at foreign companies or schools. Courses stress critical thinking, research and experience in the compilation of all film-related facets. Classes might cover the following subjects:
- Media writing
- Screen direction practice and theory
- Film marketing and distribution
- Dramatic art structure
- Film postproduction techniques
- Video and film production troubleshooting
Popular Career Options
Certificate programs are intended to introduce students to the broad range of options available in filmmaking. Graduates of these programs qualify for vocations within the filmmaking industry that have no formal education requirements or expectations. A bachelor's degree in filmmaking or cinema prepares graduates to enter the movie industry as a cinematographer, director, producer or sound technician. Individuals can join professional guilds that aid in career placement and employee rights for artists. Other opportunities exist that offer greater chances of long-term employment. Career options include:
- Screenwriter
- Set designer
- Production technician
- Advertising producer
- Film distributors
- Documentary production artists
Employment Outlook and Salary Information
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projected that employment for film and video editors and camera operators will increase by 18%, while producers and directors will increase by 10% between 2019 and 2029. The BLS also noted strong competition in these fields. Larger film production companies tend to hire union or guild members for the majority of their staff. Individual guild standards dictate benefits and wage consideration based on the profession. In some cases, a contract might award a percentage of the film profits in lieu of a set salary. The field of filmmaking is composed of such a variety of contractual options and professional occupations that a generalized salary range cannot be accurately predicted.
Continuing Education Information
A certificate program provides a foundational knowledge of filmmaking from all aspects of the vocation. Once a career path has been decided, students may continue their studies to pursue a degree in a chosen profession. In some instances, students might be able to apply credit from certificate-level courses toward degree requirements.
Certificate, bachelor's, and master's programs in filmmaking provide coursework and hands-on experience for individuals interested in film production. Students are prepared to work in a number of filmmaking roles by acquiring knowledge about film editing, theory, and directing styles.
