Is Studying for a Film Degree Worth It?

Advancing technology and digitization have made video part of everyone’s daily life. Through video, people can stay connected and share stories around the world. Social media platforms, television, and movies are the center points of modern society that rely on individuals with video production skills.

With video production increasingly becoming a highly demanded skill, students pursuing a career in the film and television realm should be ready for a dynamic field. Unfortunately, most are still unsure if they should pursue a film degree. Below are a few reasons you should attend film production classes at AIU.

1.  Gain Hands-On Experience

Not everyone who stands behind a camera knows how to use it better. The same applies to scriptwriting and editing software, handling audio equipment, lighting, and other crucial components of film production.

Enrolling in a film production course equips you with valuable experience in operating multiple equipment and software. Common filmmaking equipment you will interact with during your study include;

  • Professional lighting equipment, such as LED, arri lights, and Fresnel
  • High-end cameras, such as the FS-100, Alexa, and Red
  • Sound equipment, including audio recorders, lavaliers, and shotgun microphones
  • Scriptwriting software, such as Final Draft and Celtx
  • Editing software, specifically Avid and Adobe Premiere

Typically, film school introduces students to industry-standard tools employers consider when searching for potential talents.

2.  Build a Strong Portfolio

Ensuring that you receive a film degree at American International University also significantly contributes to your portfolio. Like other jobs, having a portfolio is important for filmmakers. Coupled with a solid traditional resume, portfolios can help graduates land lucrative careers after school.

Students can build their portfolios while at school in many ways. As mentioned, film schools provide unlimited access to professional film equipment and other resources. Assignments and projects also allow students to hone their craft, even before graduating. These are excellent opportunities for students to sharpen their visual resumes before exploring the world of professional careers.

3.  Create Lasting Connections

While film production is an open industry, it is largely about who you know or associates with. Progressing in your film career requires that you work and interact well with others. Film-making is a team effort that involves the skills and knowledge of multiple persons, including directors, camera operators, cinematographers, actors, and others. During your studies, you will learn to:

  • Seize great networking opportunities
  • Collaborate and work with other crew members
  • Build a contact list with other people in the industry
  • Assemble a competent and multi-talented film cast and crew

Developing connections during your study period helps with your current and future projects in the industry.

4.  Improve Job Outlook

With the surge in demand for film and video content across various industries, the BLS estimates that careers in the television and film industry will increase more than the predicted national average. An intensive degree program enables graduates to sidestep entry-level positions in the industry. It prepares and positions graduates as perfect candidates for mid-level and experts in the industry.

Endnote

A degree in film production builds graduates’ experience in video editing, lighting, and sound systems and grows their portfolio. It also equips them with all they need to advance in their careers.

Including your degree certification in your CV and resume increases the chances of being hired by top production companies, writer’s rooms, or editing companies. Most schools also offer internships to graduates, which is an excellent way of breaking into the industry.