collageThose without prior expertise or who do not study the subject may find reading about Film schools in Alabama daunting at first, but they may find it fascinating.
Learn more about film schools in alabama, film connection tuition, university of alabama film school ranking, and best film schools in alabama. You will also find more resources on collegelearners related to birmingham film school.
How many years is a film school?
Universities offer courses ranging from 1 to 4 years, with the majority lasting 3 or 4 years. Conversely, films schools focus on shorter technical courses of 1 or 2 years.
Is it worth being in film school?
While both approaches have their pros and cons, earning a bachelor’s degree in filmmaking often yields significantly more success in the long run. From networking opportunities to gaining hands-on experience, there’s little doubt that studying film in college provides incredible career benefits.
Is filmmaking a good career?
Originally Answered: Is being a filmmaker a good career choice? The short and sweet answer to that is a big YES! Being a filmmaker or film director, in today’s day and age, is more of a boon than bane. And there is a combination of things that has contributed to this current golden era for filmmakers and aspirants.
Prerequisites for Online Film Programs
Online programs typically follow the same requirements as on-campus programs. Getting into an online film program can vary based on the program type and level. However, many programs, regardless of their discipline or level, require transcripts, letters of recommendation, a CV or resume, and a personal essay.
Online Film Certificate and Associate’s Degree Programs
It can depend on the school, but some online film programs at the certificate and associate’s levels have open enrollment policies and generally do not have any prerequisites. Usually, to participate in a certificate program, an individual must be an undergraduate student at that school, but some online schools will let undergraduate students from other schools enroll.
An associate degree program can require students to participate in placement testing in addition to requiring a high school diploma or equivalent.
Online Film Bachelor’s Degree
Online bachelor’s degree programs in film typically require:
- Proof of a high school diploma or equivalent
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal essay
Typical Courses In An Online Film Program
Each type of film program (screenwriting, film study, and production/filmmaking) will have courses tailored towards that concentration. However, many programs have courses from all 3 concentrations available, either through electives or as part of the core requirements.
Screenwriting Courses
Screenwriting courses typically focus on the structure, formatting, and storytelling techniques used in film and television writing. Many screenwriting programs have workshops where students are given time to hone their craft and receive feedback.
- Film Screenwriting – students study techniques for crafting feature-length screenplays and how to write visually for the screen.
- Television Screenwriting – students study how TV shows are written and produced and they may come up with pitches, write a spec script, or write an original pilot.
- Writing Dialogue – students study how to write believable, gripping dialogue in a way that intrigues audiences and pushes the story further.
Film Studies Courses
Film studies courses typically focus on the history, theory, and criticism of films.
- Film Theory – students study the role of film in society, how it is consumed, how it reflects culture, and how it relates to other art.
- Film History – students study historically significant films and how filmmakers approach historical films.
- Intro to Film Studies – students are introduced to basic analysis and criticism, as well as structure, genre, and industry terms.
Production/Filmmaking Courses
Production courses typically focus on the creative, business, and technical aspects of filmmaking, from directing and editing to scene composure and media ethics. Depending on the program, these courses may have multiple parts or entire courses dedicated to one aspect, such as sound design. They may also be broken down into different genres, such as directing for documentaries.
- Production – students study how a film is made from beginning to end, from the idea to the shooting script, casting, budgeting, and post-production editing.
- Directing – students study directing techniques such as how to direct screen actors, how to execute an idea from start to finish, and how to work in location and studio settings.
- Cinematography – students study the compositional aspects of creating a scene, from different lenses to color theory, lighting, and grip.
Film schools in Alabama
1. BIRMINGHAM-SOUTHERN COLLEGE
The Media and Film Studies at Birmingham-Southern College teaches courses film and media to allows a better understanding of how media connects us. This program has an emphasis on film and media, but is supported by other disciplines in the social sciences, the humanities, and the arts. The program teaches both theory and practical application so that students can apply their skills in critical thinking, oral communication, and writing.
Phone Number:
800-523-5793
Location:
900 Arkadelphia Road
Birmingham, AL 35254
2. FILM CONNECTION
Film Connection is a school that is designed to teach you how to be a filmmaker. From screenwriting to editing, lighting to sound equipment, students get a hands-on, immersive experience and get to work with real production companies as they hone their filmmaking skills. Aside from the basics, you will also learn how to pitch your film, distribute, budget for one, and how to behave on-set. You will work on advanced gear at every turn and learn on real-life projects. This school is one of the high-quality Birmingham film schools.
Phone Number:
205-208-1260
Location:
4000 Eagle Point Corporate Dr.
Birmingham, AL 35242
3. UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
The University of Alabama at Birmingham College of Arts and Sciences offers an Interdisciplinary Film Minor- a 21-hour program with concentrations in film studies, animation/experimental video production, documentary video production, and narrative video production. Students may choose their own path with more elective courses, and less required courses, than most other programs. The small class sizes and flexible class choices make this one of the better Birmingham film schools.
Phone Number:
205-975-6267
Location:
UAB Department of Art and Art History
Abroms-Engel Institute for the Visual Arts
1221 10th Avenue South
Birmingham, AL 35294-1264
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