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Graduate School: Is it worthwhile when going into the Film making Industry?

For some industries, graduate school is more important that others. I may consider taking a graduate program over the years once I finish undergraduate school. However, after undergraduate school what's the best route? #film #entertainment #film-production #movies #cinematography #film-editing

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Mark’s Answer

Hi Jeffery,
Okay, the best steps to take after you learn the basics from the filmmaking classes would be to apply for an internship, or even study Studio 32 and Linked In for a possible job. Also, many professors have worked in the filmmaking, so they could introduce you to a producer or a director or an assistant. Best wishes.

Thank you comment icon I heard that internships are a good idea. Thank you :) Jeffery
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Mohamed’s Answer

First things first: I have a lot of respect for higher education and I myself had the privilege of attending a wonderful University, but not every area of human endeavor lends itself to being taught in classrooms. At University I studied a real subject (Biology) and subsequently taught myself filmmaking with a lot of private study and practice. It took a lot of work, but when you’re in love with something it doesn’t feel like work.


You can go to school to be a doctor; you can go to school to be a lawyer; you can go to school to be a biologist. You cannot go to school to be a filmmaker.
Thank you comment icon Thank you for your advice! I will keep this in mind :) Jeffery
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Bob’s Answer

I'm not convinced that a graduate film program is necessarily worthwhile, unless it gives you the ability to write and direct your own substantial short film (one that you may not be able to make were you not in the program). If that's the case, you can then take that to film festivals, etc. If you can make the film outside of school, you may want to consider doing that. From a strictly academic standpoint, I don't know that a graduate degree in and of itself adds credibility in a hiring situation. If you have talent, it will be recognized regardless of a specific degree. Best of luck!
Thank you comment icon I've gotten similar responses on this. I'm starting to see that experience is important in this industry and I should focus more than just getting a formal education. Thanks for the advice :) Jeffery
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Kelly’s Answer

I for one don't know if even a bachelor's degree is worthwhile in the entertainment industry in general. You can't really teach the inherent talent necessary for the arts. I got a bachelors in entertainment and every single job thereafter I have been in the minority. Hard work and a good attitude go much further in my opinion.
Thank you comment icon Thanks for your answer, I agree. Most industry learning comes when one starts working in the world. Getting that experience after undergraduate studies is probably the way to go Jeffery
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Jessica’s Answer

While formal education can provide you with a basic understanding of filmmaking, actually working on productions is the best way to sharpen your skills. I graduated from a fantastic graduate film program, but beyond learning the basics, the most valuable part of my education was the consortium of other filmmakers with whom I connected.

If you can't afford an expensive film program, don't fret! Learn everything about the process that you can online. You can find scripts online for various films and television programs that you love. Read the script while watching the film or show. You'll learn about storytelling. Then, shoot your own short films on your cellphone with friends. That's practice. You'll get better. Submit some of your shorts to festivals. You'll build a reel and meet other filmmakers at the festivals. You'll grow your network. Before you know it, others will recognize you as great content creator and amicable person with whom to work. Bam! You have a filmmaking career without attending film school.
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