Media and technology are coming together to such an extent that it is often difficult to distinguish the two areas. At the same time, jobs in both film and TV are becoming increasingly multi-disciplined. Involving digital film-making and an understanding of the technology behind it and new media technologies, a course in film production technology will position you to thrive in the digital age.

Many universities offer diploma, Bachelor of Science and Masters programmes with duration ranging from 12 months, 15 months, 3 yrs and 4 yrs. Lots of institutions provide placement assistance in the final year of the course.

A programme in film production technology abroad usually combines the study of digital video production and interactivity in a number of different fields, including television, cinema, video and the internet. The course will equip students for employment in a creative, technical or administrative capacity in the entertainment industry, or more generally in employment requiring an understanding of multimedia and new technologies.

What will you learn?

The courses cover all aspects of film production right from Directing, Producing, Screenwriting, Cinematography, art direction, and Editing/Visual Effects. You learn the whole art and the whole business, and then put your art to work in the business.

In the final year, you are expected to produce a short film. At some universities, you get the opportunity to learn from Emmy and Oscar winners. You learn the whole art and the whole business, and then put your art to work in the business.

Some courses also cover other interesting aspects such as Scriptwriting for Technologists, Digital Image Production, Audio for Production, History of Film Technology, Video Editing Science, Audio Processing, Audio Visual Technology, Marketing Principles, Visual Media Applications, Video Editing Technology, Studio Production Technology, Broadcasting Technology, Camera Technology, DVD Technology, Video Recording and Production and Film and Sound Design.

Career options

The Film Production program equips graduates with the skills they need to excel in all areas of the film industry.

• Assistant Director
• Producer
• Cinematographer
• Location Sound
• Art Director
• Post Production
• Director
• Writer / Script Developer

A new breed of filmmakers is the independent, self-sufficient entrepreneurs who passionately create films outside of the traditional studio system. They often perform multiple roles, from directing and editing to lighting and craft services. There are no rules for the independent filmmaker, which makes success all the more enjoyable.

Universities to choose from

The following institutes and universities offer reputed programmes in film production and are well-known for their international reputation:

• American Film Institute, USA
• University of Southern California, USA
• Australian Film, Television and Radio School, Australia
• University of California, USA
• California Institute of the Arts, USA
• National Film & Television School, UK
• Film & TV School of the Academy of Performing Arts (Czech Republic)
• Concordia University, Canada