A directing degree refers to an academic program offered by colleges, universities, or film schools, focusing on the art and craft of film direction. It typically falls under the broader category of Film Studies, Cinema, or Film Production. This degree is designed for individuals aspiring to become film directors and provides comprehensive education and training in various aspects of filmmaking, including directing, screenwriting, cinematography, editing, and production management.
A directing degree program often covers a range of topics, including film theory, history, storytelling techniques, script analysis, visual aesthetics, and practical filmmaking skills. Students learn to develop their unique artistic vision, hone their directorial style, and gain hands-on experience in directing short films, scenes, or even full-length features. They also study the technical aspects of filmmaking, such as camera operation, lighting design, and post-production processes.
Some directing degree programs emphasize a well-rounded education, encouraging students to explore different roles in the filmmaking process before specializing in directing. Others offer a more focused curriculum specifically tailored for aspiring directors.
Graduates with a directing degree are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and creative insight necessary to pursue careers as film directors. They can work in various genres, including narrative films, documentaries, television shows, web series, and commercials. Additionally, they may choose to continue their education or enter the industry directly, working in roles such as directors, assistant directors, production managers, or even screenwriters, drawing upon their comprehensive understanding of the filmmaking process.
Types of Degrees
Aspiring film directors can pursue degrees at various levels, each offering a different depth of education and training in the field of directing. Here are the types of degrees commonly offered:
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Film or Cinema: A BFA in Film or Cinema with a focus on directing provides undergraduate students with a comprehensive education in filmmaking, including directing, screenwriting, cinematography, and editing. This degree typically emphasizes hands-on experience and creative development, allowing students to gain practical skills while exploring their artistic vision.
- Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Film Studies or Cinema Studies: A BA in Film Studies or Cinema Studies offers a more theoretical and analytical approach to filmmaking. While it may include directing courses, this degree program focuses on film history, theory, and criticism. Students gain a broad understanding of the cinematic art form, which can be valuable for future directors in terms of cultural and historical context.
- Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Film Directing: An MFA in Film Directing is a graduate-level degree that provides in-depth, specialized training in directing. MFA programs often focus on refining the director’s artistic vision, storytelling skills, and technical expertise. Students work on advanced projects and often collaborate closely with experienced faculty members and industry professionals.
- Master of Arts (MA) in Film or Cinema Studies: An MA in Film or Cinema Studies is a graduate-level degree that offers a more academic and research-oriented approach to film. This degree program delves into film theory, history, and critical analysis. While it doesn’t emphasize hands-on filmmaking skills, it provides a strong foundation for understanding the theoretical aspects of cinema, which can be beneficial for directors seeking a deeper intellectual perspective.
- Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Screenwriting and Directing: Some graduate programs offer a combined MFA in Screenwriting and Directing, allowing students to develop skills in both areas. This interdisciplinary approach enables aspiring directors to understand the intricacies of storytelling through both writing and directing, providing a well-rounded education in cinematic narrative.
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Film Studies: A Ph.D. in Film Studies is a doctoral-level degree that focuses on advanced research and scholarship in the field of film. Ph.D. programs are typically research-intensive and prepare students for careers in academia, film criticism, or specialized research positions. While not geared toward practical directing skills, a Ph.D. in Film Studies provides a deep understanding of film history, theory, and critical analysis.
Schools
Several prestigious institutions in the United States offer top-tier film programs with a focus on directing. The following institutions are widely recognized for their excellent film programs and are often considered among the best for aspiring directors:
- University of Southern California (USC) - School of Cinematic Arts: USC’s School of Cinematic Arts is renowned for its film programs and is consistently ranked among the top film schools globally. The school offers a Bachelor of Arts in Film and Television Production as well as a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Film & Television Production, which includes a directing track.
- New York University (NYU) - Tisch School of the Arts: NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts is a prestigious institution known for its strong emphasis on artistic expression and innovation. The Maurice Kanbar Institute of Film and Television at Tisch offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Film and Television, as well as a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Filmmaking with a focus on directing.
- American Film Institute (AFI) - AFI Conservatory: AFI is one of the most esteemed institutions dedicated to film education. The AFI Conservatory offers a highly selective and intensive Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Directing program, providing hands-on experience and mentorship from industry professionals.
- California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) - School of Film/Video: CalArts offers a unique and innovative approach to filmmaking education. The School of Film/Video provides programs such as Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Film and Video, allowing students to explore various aspects of filmmaking, including directing.
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) - School of Theater, Film and Television: UCLA’s School of Theater, Film and Television offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Film, Television, and Digital Media, as well as a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Directing. UCLA’s alumni include many successful directors in the film industry.
- Columbia University - School of the Arts: Columbia University’s School of the Arts offers an MFA in Film program. The school provides a creative and interdisciplinary approach to filmmaking, allowing students to explore directing, screenwriting, producing, and other aspects of the craft.
- Chapman University - Dodge College of Film and Media Arts: Chapman University’s Dodge College offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Film Production with a directing emphasis. The program emphasizes hands-on experience and offers state-of-the-art facilities for filmmaking.
