Cinema Arts
Major
Cinema arts
A major in cinema arts provides experience in all areas of film production, from scriptwriting to production to post-production. You'll graduate with a strong portfolio ready to pursue careers in film, video, screenwriting and more.
AT A GLANCE
Why choose cinema arts at CMU?
Gain an understanding of all aspects of film in Michigan's only BFA program in cinema arts.
- Shape rough ideas into well-crafted scripts.
- Learn about the various design and aesthetic principles of film.
- Craft your own film production with access to high-quality film equipment and software.
You can learn from award-winning experienced faculty who have had their films exhibited at high profile festivals. You’ll graduate with critical hands-on experience and a solid digital portfolio.
You'll take courses on scriptwriting, audio/video production, film critique and analysis and more alongside peers just as passionate as you are about watching and making high quality films. You'll then apply what you learn in the classroom to the production of your very own film project from start to finish. Students' films have been exhibited at the Central Michigan International Film Festival.
Beyond the classroom, you’ll have access to internship opportunities with broadcast and television studios, film and media companies, digital web agencies and more. You can also join CMU's Animation Club, Film Society and Moore Hall Television, an organization for passionate cinephiles committed to promoting diversity and educational and cultural awareness through film.
Cinema arts program highlights
As a cinema arts student here, you'll experience exciting opportunities like:
- Learning from award-winning faculty: Learn from and work with experienced, award-winning faculty.
- Access to professional equipment: Have access to high-end video, audio, lighting and studio equipment as well as Adobe Creative Suite - free to all CMU students.
- Hands-on film production: Take your own film project from concept to finished production — giving you critical experience and adding to your digital portfolio.
- Film festival opportunities: Possibly have your work exhibited at the Central Michigan International Film Festival and/or the Traverse City Film Festival.
Cinema arts career paths
A cinema arts major can prepare you for careers in film, writing, producing, directing, cinematography, editing, sound designing and advertising.
| Career | Projected Salary |
|---|---|
| Video Editor | $65,070 |
| Producer | $82,510 |
| Writer/Author | $73,690 |
| Audio/Visual Technician | $54,160 |
| Multimedia Illustrator | $41,862 |
| Film Producer | $42,336 |
| Production Planner | $44,981 |
| Broadcast Presenter | $55,453 |
CMU drone program
You'll have the opportunity to add to your portfolio of skills. Drones are taking off in popularity, not only in personal use, but with businesses, too. Check out this video on how CMU's unique drone program helped one of our alumni land their dream job.
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