Film & Video Production Major
Film & Video Production is the study and practice of producing motion pictures and video content. It is a major within Communications & Media.
Film and Video Production is the study and practice of creating motion pictures and video content. Students learn how to conceptualize, plan, shoot, and edit visual stories using cameras, lighting, sound equipment, and editing software. The major asks fundamental questions about how to communicate ideas visually, how to work with actors and crews, how to compose shots, and how to shape raw footage into finished pieces. Students develop both creative skills—such as storytelling and visual design—and technical skills, including equipment operation and post-production workflows.
Students drawn to this major typically have an interest in visual communication and narrative or documentary storytelling. They often enjoy both the creative and technical sides of filmmaking, or want to develop expertise in one area in particular. Study usually begins with foundational classes covering the basics of camera, lighting, sound, and editing, along with film history and analysis. As students progress, coursework becomes more specialized and project-based, allowing them to pursue particular interests—whether in narrative filmmaking, documentary, animation, commercial production, or other forms—while building a portfolio of their own work.
Typical coursework
Course requirements vary by school, but a Film & Video Production program commonly includes topics such as:
- Cinematography
- Editing
- Screenwriting
- Production
- Sound design
- Directing
Most programs also include general-education requirements and, in many fields, a capstone project, internship, or research experience.
Degree levels
Film & Video Production is commonly offered at these levels:
- Associate
- Bachelor's
- Master's
Availability differs by institution, and program names can vary (for example, a Bachelor of Arts versus a Bachelor of Science track).
Common career directions
Graduates with a Film & Video Production background pursue a range of paths. Some roles related to this field of study include:
- Production assistant
- Video editor
- Camera operator
- Producer
Many careers require additional steps beyond the major — such as a graduate degree, a license, or a certification — and many graduates work in fields unrelated to their major. What you study is one factor among many in where your career goes.
General career information is drawn from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook. Career paths vary widely by person, school, and region; this is not a list of guaranteed jobs or earnings.
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Find degree programs →Frequently asked questions
What is a Film & Video Production major?
Film & Video Production is the study and practice of producing motion pictures and video content. It is part of communications & media, and combines foundational coursework with more focused study as you advance.
What courses do Film & Video Production majors take?
Coursework varies by school, but commonly includes topics such as cinematography, editing, screenwriting, production, and others, plus general-education requirements.
What can you do with a Film & Video Production major?
Graduates pursue a range of paths, including roles such as production assistant, video editor, camera operator. Many roles require additional steps such as a graduate degree, license, or certification. This is general information, not a guarantee of any job or salary.
What degree levels is Film & Video Production offered at?
It is commonly offered at the associate, bachelor's, master's level, though availability varies by institution.