Digital Filmmaking, Writing/Directing (AAS)
Program Overview
Colorado Mesa University's Digital Filmmaking: Writing/Directing AAS degree program equips students with practical skills in scriptwriting, production, directing, and post-production. It emphasizes essential proficiencies in communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving, preparing graduates for entry-level positions in the film, broadcast, and documentary industries. The program includes internships and hands-on experience to enhance students' employability and career readiness.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Digital Filmmaking: Writing/Directing major is an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree program offered at Colorado Mesa University (CMU). The program aims to prepare and develop students for entry-level production and management positions in the film, broadcast, and documentary video industries. It focuses on storytelling through scriptwriting, production planning and shooting, and post-production. The program emphasizes practical skills, covering areas such as:
- Scriptwriting
- Production planning and shooting
- Directing talent and crew
- Setting up lighting and sound
- Non-linear video editing and compositing
- Budgeting and scheduling
- Forming video production companies
Outline:
The program consists of 61 semester hours of coursework, divided into:
- Essential Learning Requirements (15 semester hours):
- Communication courses (3 semester hours): ENGL 111 (English Composition I), ENGL 112 (English Composition II), SPCH 101 (Interpersonal Communications), or SPCH 102 (Speechmaking)
- Mathematics course (3 semester hours): MATH 110 (Mathematical Investigations) or higher
- Other Essential Learning Core Courses (3 semester hours): THEA 141 (Theatre Appreciation), plus one Social and Behavioral Sciences, History, Natural Sciences, Fine Arts, or Humanities course.
- Other Lower Division Requirements (2 semester hours):
- Wellness Requirement (1 semester hour): KINE 100 (Health and Wellness)
- Activity course (1 semester hour)
- Program Specific Degree Requirements (44 semester hours):
- FILM 110 (Film Expression)
- FILM 120 (Film Script Analysis)
- FILM 130 (Short-Form Screenwriting)
- FILM 139 (Professional Documentary Production)
- FILM 142 (Film Production Assistant II)
- FILM 144 (Sound Design for Film)
- FILM 150 (Episodic Screenwriting)
- FILM 170 (Short-Form Production)
- FILM 200 (Directing Film Actors)
- FILM 209 (Production Budget and Scheduling)
- FILM 230 (Episodic Production)
- FILM 265 (Producing Indie Films)
- FILM 270 (Cinema Capstone II)
- FILM 299 (Internship) However, it is implied that students must demonstrate proficiency in various areas, including:
- Specialized knowledge/applied learning
- Quantitative fluency
- Communication fluency
- Critical thinking
- Personal and social responsibility
Careers:
The program prepares students for entry-level positions in the film, broadcast, and documentary video industries, such as:
- Production Assistant
- Scriptwriter
- Director
- Producer
- Editor
- Sound Designer
- Cinematographer
Other:
- Graduates are expected to demonstrate proficiency in essential skills, including specialized knowledge, quantitative fluency, communication fluency, critical thinking, personal and social responsibility, and information literacy.
- CMU/WCCC associate graduates are required to complete a minimum of 15 of the final 30 semester hours of credit at CMU/WCCC.
- Non-traditional credit (e.g., advanced placement, credit by examination, credit for prior learning) cannot exceed 20 semester credit hours for an AAS degree.
- Pre-collegiate courses (numbered below 100) cannot be used for graduation.
- Students must complete the "Intent to Graduate" form to declare their intended graduation date and commencement ceremony plans.
Colorado Mesa University
Overview:
Colorado Mesa University (CMU) is a public university located in Grand Junction, Colorado. It offers a wide range of academic programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as online courses and programs. CMU is known for its affordable tuition, small class sizes, and strong emphasis on hands-on learning.
Services Offered:
CMU provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Admissions & Costs:
Admissions counseling, application process, financial aid, scholarships, tuition and fee information, and resources for admitted students.Academics:
Program search, course catalog, degree requirements, graduate studies, online courses, non-credit courses, semester calendars, and academic advising.Study and Performance Resources:
Library access, study room reservations, textbook purchasing, tutoring services, and transcript requests.Getting Help:
IRIS (student assistance), accessibility services, career services, IT help desk, university center information, student services, student wellness center, tutoring, faculty contact information, campus office contacts, directory search, and campus maps.Campus Life:
Dining services, housing and residence life, student life activities, campus safety, parking services, MAVcard campus ID, and resources for current students.Events:
Calendar of events, performing arts, commencement ceremony, welcome week, homecoming, parents' weekend, student showcase, and event space reservations.Campus Activities:
Outdoor program, recreation center, NCAA athletics, clubs and organizations, club sports, and intramural sports.Working Here:
Faculty and staff employment opportunities, student employment, human resources, and payroll.Student Life and Campus Experience:
CMU offers a vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including:
Outdoor Adventures:
The Outdoor Program provides opportunities for outdoor trips and equipment rentals.Social Engagement:
Student life offers numerous on-campus activities, clubs, and yearly concerts.Downtown Exploration:
Grand Junction's historic downtown provides dining, shopping, and entertainment options.Key Reasons to Study There:
Affordable Education:
CMU offers a quality education at a competitive price, with one of the lowest tuition rates in Colorado.Small Class Sizes:
Students benefit from personalized attention and close relationships with professors.Hands-on Learning:
CMU emphasizes practical experience and prepares students for successful careers.Vibrant Campus Life:
Students can enjoy a diverse range of activities, clubs, and events.Beautiful Location:
Grand Junction offers a sunny climate and access to outdoor recreation.Academic Programs:
CMU offers over 120 academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Arts and Humanities:
Art, Communication, English, History, Music, Theatre, and more.Business and Technology:
Business Administration, Computer Science, Engineering, Hospitality Management, and more.Education:
Elementary Education, Secondary Education, Special Education, and more.Health Sciences:
Nursing, Health Sciences, and more.Social Sciences:
Criminal Justice, Psychology, Sociology, and more.Other:
CMU has additional locations, including:
CMU Tech:
A technical college offering associate degrees and certificates.Montrose Campus:
A branch campus offering select undergraduate programs.CMU also offers online programs through its Distance Education program.
