Sonoma State University has added a Motion Picture Arts and Technology degree program to prepare students for expanding opportunities in the film and video industry. Students learn skills in camera operation, audio production, digital editing, and post-production, preparing them for careers in video production, media production, and the entertainment industry.
“This new degree program allows students to benefit from our strong media studies coursework and introduces our approach to telling impactful media stories,” said Talena Saunders. said. Associate Professor, Film Arts and Technology Degree Coordinator, Deputy Film Studies Coordinator.
Sanders said the Bay Area has strong journalism, documentary filmmaking and sports media industries, so there is always a demand for local emerging media professionals with technical and creative skills.
Ed Bebout, executive director of the Sonoma State Center for the Arts, agrees.
“This industry is growing, especially with the advent of equipment and programs that allow people to participate in filmmaking that are not supported by the major studios,” Biebout said. “We saw real value in offering a program that teaches students how to use tools that support careers in film arts and technology.”
Saunders said salaries in the entertainment industry are significantly higher than the national average, and that a degree in film and video production “offers a wide range of interesting and meaningful options for creative careers.”
“This career field allows students to use their voice and vision to shape society.Film, television, and online content reach a wide and diverse audience around the world, helping us understand each other, It impacts how we connect.”
Due to the large size of the program, students have many opportunities to receive individual attention and guidance. SSU student Tessa Bradley said she found her experience in the program refreshing and the small class sizes helped her connect.
“We are working with students to pioneer this program, as it is still in its early stages.The student-to-staff ratio is lower than other programs at the university, which allows for more specialized instruction. , it feels tailored to you and your classmates,’” Bradley said.
Sanders said he works with area film festivals like the Mill Valley Film Festival to bring visiting filmmakers into the classroom so students can watch films before they are shown in theaters. Ta. Throughout the year, our classrooms are visited by guest speakers from a variety of backgrounds, including directors, producers, camera assistants, prop masters, costume designers, and editors.
“Our region is very fortunate to have a rich and vibrant independent film culture that is visited by many directors and professionals,” said Sanders.
Beebout said studios and online content production companies are also hiring students with audio and digital production skills because video production is important to industries other than film production.
“Opportunities seem to be expanding in multiple directions,” he said.
The program recently received a $225,000 grant from the KHR McNeeley Family Foundation, adding to previous support for SSU Film Arts students. Bebout said the funding will help accumulate technology, such as camera equipment, for students to borrow, and will also fund scholarships for students with good grades.
“Studying media can be expensive. We offer our students equal access to excellent equipment and facilities to learn the skills needed for a career in this field, regardless of their economic background. “You can,” Biebout said.
Sander said he is excited about the students and “new opportunities to work in film arts and moving images in all media,” and said he is excited about the program’s growth and how Seawolf’s alumni network, including those currently working at Marvel, will He said he is looking forward to seeing how it develops. and Sony Studios will continue to support each other.
“As the program grows, our students’ dedication to their craft has already deepened. We look forward to seeing how far our students will go together. Sonoma State University students look to each other to enter the industry. “It’s exciting to see the doors open,” she said.
Krista Sherer – Strategic Communications Writer