Essential Information
As a media production professional, you'll provide technical and artistic direction and support during the development and release of films, television shows, video games and other entertainment products. One of the most common programs offered is the Master of Fine Arts in Media Production, which offers areas of concentration such as film, television or audio production. Some programs are less structured and allow you to pursue customized projects according to your professional interests. Coursework may include such topics as computer animation, web design and film post-production techniques. These programs generally tend to last around three years.
Master's Degree in Media Production
To apply to an MFA program, you must submit a portfolio of work or a sample video reel. Although a bachelor's degree is often necessary, a variety of undergraduate backgrounds are acceptable; however, prerequisite courses may be required if you do not possess a fine arts background. Many schools ask that GRE scores be submitted as well.
Coursework can vary greatly depending on your concentration and professional interests. However, the following course topics are generally available:
- Modern media and media history
- Web design
- Image and sound production
- Media production and writing
- Documentary production and post-production
- Computer animation
Popular Career Options
As a media production specialist, you may pursue numerous career paths, ranging from studio work to independent consulting. Specific roles include:
- Director
- Producer
- Film editor
- Videographer
- Sound specialist
Career and Salary Information
Due to the broad nature of media production, salaries and job outlooks vary. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts an 18% job growth for film and video editors in the 2019-2029 decade. They earned $67,250 as a median annual wage in 2020.
Multimedia artists and animators may also fall under the field of media production. The BLS estimates a 4% job growth for these workers in the years 2019-2029. Multimedia animators and artists earned $77,700 as a median yearly salary in 2020.
Continuing Education
Doctoral degree programs in media arts and technology are available if you seek to explore advanced theories behind current media and its creation. Additionally, some companies that put out software used in the creation of video and in sound products offer professional certification via courses and exams.
A media production master's degree program prepares students for many different careers within the industry or to enroll in another graduate degree, if they want to pursue their education even further. Students will learn how to design and deliver well-produced media and will also gain proficiency with typical post-production techniques.
