Program Description

There’s never been a better time to prepare for a career in film. New York State tax incentives for the film and television industry have led to a boom in New York film and television productions in recent years, and demand for video on social media platforms has been growing exponentially. 

The Certificate in Digital Filmmaking is designed for students who seek to develop professional expertise in digital film production and postproduction. The Certificate is suited to individuals seeking to enhance their skills in an existing job or those looking to launch a career in film, television or advertising. Students will learn the latest software in up-to-date labs from working film professionals. Core courses provide students with a solid foundation in cinema history and theory, film aesthetics, screenwriting, camera operation, lighting, and digital editing. Electives allow students to explore a variety of areas, including acting, computer animation, and visual effects, in addition to an internship option.

The program offers courses at the main campus in Valhalla and at several extension locations. Film production students have access to camera, lighting and audio equipment to work on their projects, and can take advantage of open lab hours to edit in our post-production facilities. The department sponsors an active Film Club, which is open to students of all majors. In addition, the Film Program holds its annual WCC Film Festival every April. Visit the WCC Film Festival website to watch trailers and full reels from previous years.

Gainful Employment Disclosure

For information about graduation rates, the median debt of students who have completed this program, and other important information please visit Digital Filmmaking Certificate - GE Disclosure. For an overview of all gainful employment disclosures at Westchester Community College, visit www.sunywcc.edu/gainfulemployment. 

Program Map

The academic map below presents the recommended plan of study and will guide you through your program in a timely manner. Click the course abbreviations for full course descriptions. A course may be critical because it is a pre-requisite, requires a minimum grade, or because it is only offered once a year. Missing a critical course may push back your graduation date. Meet with an Academic Counselor or Faculty Advisor to ensure you are on track to complete your program.

Critical Courses should be taken in the order shown to stay on track and graduate on time.

 Semester 1

Semester 2

Notes:

✹ Choose one: FILM 103 , FILM 109 , FILM 113 , FILM 143 , FILM 160 , FILM 220 , ART 129 , ART 147 , ART 149A , COMM 101 , COMM 119 , COMM 121 , THEAT 113 , THEAT 117A , MUSIC 160 , MUSIC 163 , or MUSIC 165  

Minimum Total Credits: 33

Career Opportunities

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