Filmmaking Major

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Are you passionate about telling stories visually? Democratized production and distribution methods, along with the convergence of global media networks, mean there have never been more opportunities to find an audience for quality filmmaking.

Champlain's Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Filmmaking is specifically tailored to help you develop your creative and technical skills. With excellent instruction, access to the latest technology, and a hands-on approach to learning, you'll graduate with an impressive résumé and portfolio.

Why Study Filmmaking at Champlain?

Through our Upside-Down Curriculum, you'll take relevant courses in your major—including Audio Production, Screenwriting, and Introduction to Filmmaking—in your first year. As you explore different types of work on and off set, you will gain exposure to a variety of filmmaking styles. This early experience allows you more time to build your portfolio and make informed decisions about your own interests; based on your career goals, you'll choose a concentration to focus your filmmaking education. Choose between Cinematography, Directing, Motion Graphics, Producing, Screenwriting, and Sonic Arts. 

While trying on roles such as director, cinematographer, sound designer, and editor, you'll also learn the vital business aspects of a film production. Immerse yourself in film history, aesthetics, and criticism, while building experience with budgets, promotion, and the technologies of film.

  • Champlain students have had their short-form documentaries and narrative films premiered on Vermont PBS.
  • Filmmaking student, Evelyn Gustafson, won THREE awards at the New York Film Awards before she graduated! Her debut film 'Dear Dublin' was inspired by her adventures studying at Champlain Abroad's campus in Dublin, Ireland.
  • The CCM Division sponsors one junior or senior Filmmaking student whose faculty-endorsed application is selected to take part in Stowe Story Labs annual fall workshops. Champlain students also have the opportunity to intern in its Spring Writers' Retreat.
  • Every year, students participate in the student showcase at the Vermont International Film Festival
  • Students also participate in other events sponsored by VTIFF, such as the Freedom and Unity annual film contest, which features films about students' lives, passions, and interests in the state of Vermont.
  • In 2017 and 2018, Champlain Filmmaking students won Student Production Awards for Excellence at the New England chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Emmy Awards event.

Our Filmmaking program's remarkable combination of conceptual engagement, technical skills, artistic experimentation, and business training will help you polish your own signature style and prepare you for a variety of creative opportunities in the industry.


JUST THE FACTS

THE BEST


The 2021 Fiske Guide to Colleges selected Champlain as one of the "best and most interesting schools" in the United States, Canada, and Great Britain.

THE MOST


Champlain was named a "Most Innovative School" by U.S. News & World Report (for the seventh consecutive year!) in its "America's Best Colleges" 2022 rankings.

#1


Burlington, Vermont, our hometown, is ranked the #1 Best College Town by Travel + Leisure magazine.

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In the meantime, check out our list of majors, schedule your visit or event, and enjoy The View, for the latest news and updates from the College!

Latest Filmmaking News from The View