BFA Film & Television Arts: Filmmaking

Bachelor of Fine arts Degree in Film and Television Arts

The Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Film and Television Arts provides a comprehensive education designed to prepare students for successful careers in the entertainment industry. The core curriculum covers essential aspects of filmmaking and production, including screenwriting and directing, cinematography and editing, production, and sound design. The study of film aesthetics and a contemporary focus on the history of cinema helps each filmmaker in defining their own individual voice and path in contemporary filmmaking in an environment where students from Acting for Camera, Filmmaking, and Screenwriting concentrations work together on exciting film and television projects. With access to professional studio backlots and soundstages in Hollywood, students gain invaluable hands-on experience. Graduates leave with diverse portfolios, industry-ready skills, and the confidence to pursue careers as actors, filmmakers, screenwriters, and other creative professionals in a competitive and dynamic field.

Concentration in Filmmaking

The Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Film and Television Arts: Filmmaking program offers broad training in film production, encompassing directing, cinematography, editing, sound design, producing and film aesthetics. Students create a number of fully realized projects, including a single-location short film, mid-program milestone short, experimental films, documentary shorts, a music video, a commercial, and digital content, culminating in a Senior Thesis Film. With access to professional Hollywood studio backlots, students gain hands-on experience in a real-world setting. Graduates leave with a robust portfolio, including multiple films and screenplays, ready to launch successful careers as filmmakers, directors, cinematographers, editors, and producers.

Students completing the BFA Film and Television Arts program should be able to:

• Creative Development: Generate original, compelling content across various media, demonstrating creativity and innovation in film and television arts.

• Technical Proficiency: Demonstrate technical knowledge of equipment and processes used for filmmaking, including pre-production, production, and post-production elements.

• Collaborative Production: Engage effectively in a collaborative production process, working with peers and professionals from different concentrations to create cohesive projects.

• Historical and Critical Analysis: Apply historical insights and critical analysis to the creation and interpretation of screenplays and films from a variety of periods, styles, and genres.

• Professional Practice: Apply standard entertainment industry business practices regarding preparation, communication, and professionalism, preparing students for successful careers in the film and television industry.

Concentration Learning Outcomes for Filmmaking

• Project Execution: Plan, direct, and produce various film projects, including short films, experimental films, documentaries, and music videos, demonstrating comprehensive filmmaking skills.

• Cinematic Techniques: Apply advanced techniques in cinematography, editing, and sound design to create visually and aurally compelling films.

• Professional Portfolio: Develop a diverse portfolio of films and screenplays, including a senior thesis film, showcasing readiness to enter and succeed in the film industry.