Filmmaking Major
Master the production of motion pictures and understand the global business of filmmaking. Use the latest tools, work on real projects, and turn your vision into reality through observation, imagination, storytelling and technical skill.
Launch Your Career in Today’s Booming Digital Content Industry
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What is Filmmaking?
Filmmaking combines technical skills and storytelling to create video content for movies, TV, social media, and more. At Champlain, you’ll learn the entire production process from writing to editing, giving you the practical skills needed in today’s fast-growing digital content industry.
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Why study Filmmaking at Champlain?
At Champlain, you start working with industry-standard equipment right away. While students at other colleges spend their first year in basic classes, you’ll already be:
- Creating real film projects
- Learning on professional-grade cameras and editing software
- Building skills that employers need right now
- Getting hired for paid work as early as your first year
You’ll also choose from six career-focused concentrations to match your goals:
- Cinematography: Master camera work from filming to final color
- Directing: Learn to lead creative teams and guide productions
- Motion Graphics: Create visual effects that bring stories to life
- Producing: Manage the business side of filmmaking
- Screenwriting: Craft compelling scripts that engage audiences
- Sonic Arts: Design sound and music that enhances visual stories
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What will I learn while studying Filmmaking?
By the time you graduate, you will:
- Use professional equipment ¨C Work with the same cameras, software, and tools used in the industry
- Create marketable content ¨C Build a portfolio of work that showcases your unique style
- Master production workflows ¨C Manage resources and logistics like a professional
- Lead creative teams ¨C Develop the collaboration skills that employers value
- Understand the business ¨C Learn how the industry works and where you fit in
Different by Design
The Tools You Need
You¡¯ll have access to state-of-the-art software and camera equipment – like RED cameras ¨C in and out of class.
Get Global Experience
Take your filmmaking classes abroad by participating in film trips to countries such as Italy, Saudi Arabia, The Gambia, and Sweden.
Get Hired Early
Our talented film majors are frequently hired within the community, often after their first year.
Facts & Stats
of Filmmaking majors in the Class of 2023 achieved career success within six months after graduation. That’s success you can see.
Jobs for producers and directors are growing faster over the next decade than average according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Sample Courses in Filmmaking
Our program is designed to prepare you for immediate employment upon graduation. You’ll learn both the creative and technical sides of filmmaking, with an emphasis on skills you can apply directly in the workplace.
Career Possibilities
What jobs can I get with a Filmmaking degree?
With a Champlain Filmmaking degree, you¡¯ll be prepared for in-demand roles such as:
- Screenwriter
- Director
- Producing
- Editor
- Camera Operator
- Screenwriter
- Production Manager
Industry connections, hands-on experience, and a professional portfolio will give you the edge in today¡¯s competitive job market.
View Our Student Work
Ethan’s Cinematography Reel
Filmmaking student Ethan Hacker’s cinematography reel of work created while at Champlain.
Megan’s Editor Colorist Reel
Filmmaking student Megan Buckley’s editor colorist reel created while at Champlain.
Aidan’s Cinematography Reel
A collection of clips made by Filmmaking student Aidan Patterson while at Champlain.
Samantha’s VFX Reel
Filmmaking student Samantha Simpson’s VFX reel.
Filmmaking Admissions Requirements
As a Filmmaking applicant, you have the option to submit a portfolio consisting of 1 video or movie sample (up to 5 min) OR 1 script (3-5 pages) and photos to supplement your application.
Facts & Stats
Champlain was named a “Most Innovative School” by U.S. News & World Report in its “America’s Best Colleges” 2024 ranking of universities in the North.
Named one of The Best 390 Colleges in America for 2025 by The Princeton Review.
Latest News from The View
Beyond the Screen: Champlain Students Bring Visual Magic to Symphony Performance
Launching FrameUp: An App for Filmmakers
Champlain and nuwave Equity Corporation Launch Vermont Culture Innovators Project
Game Sound Design Expertise Enhances Local Art Exhibit
Champlain Weekend Marketplace Highlights Entrepreneurial Spirit
Faculty-Led Trip to Author¡¯s Historic Home Is One For The Books
Success of Student Game Underscores Strength of New Major
Champlain Students and Faculty Shine at Regional Student Emmy Awards
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Pre-College Summer Program: Filmmaking & Media Production Exploration AcademyThe Filmmaking & Media Production Exploration Academy offers students the opportunity to learn about many of the different jobs available in creating content for film, television, and streaming ¨C including movies, web series, documentaries, commercials, social media, drama, comedy and more. By the end of the Academy, students will have a greater understanding of what it means to work in film and where their passions lie within the filmmaking process.
This program is designed for students entering grades 10-12 and recent high school graduates.
Learn More on the Pre-College Summer Program Website
More Inside Filmmaking Major
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Overview
Master the production of motion pictures and understand the global business of filmmaking. Use the latest tools, work on real projects, and turn your vision into reality through observation, imagination, storytelling and technical skill.
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Curriculum
Your career in filmmaking begins now with Champlain¡¯s Upside-Down Curriculum. Discover the difference that doing on day one has on your success.
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Faculty
Learn more about the experienced professionals leading Champlain College's broadcast media production program who are dedicated to teaching and mentoring you.
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Learning Outcomes
Through hands-on projects, classroom learning, and immersive industry experiences, you¡¯ll build the wide variety of technical and professional skills you¡¯ll need throughout your careers.