<p>Can anyone out there tell me about the film program at the University of Michigan? I've heard good things here and there, but I need more to see if I want to switch from applying to Syracuse to UMich (as everyone seem to think I should because Syracuse isn't worth applying to (?) for someone like me).</p>
<p>Furthermore, is there any way I can learn the business of film or perhaps combine film and business? I know, I can't double major because of the separate schools but is there a cross school business minor? I can't seem to find the page about minoring and double majoring on the umich website?</p>
<p>can anyone suggest any other schools with good film programs (production element included) with possible business minors or double majors, and is a good overall school?</p>
<p>Okay, I’m going to try to help you sort this out. There are basically two types of film degrees, a BA and/or a BFA or BSC. So, Michigan offers the BA – that means theoretic study, more or less. At Michigan, you take general film classes in your first and second year. If you do well on the pre-reqs, then you can access production classes, but usually not until your third year. They do have an awesome year-long screenwriting course, by permission only, that is taught by an experienced Hollywood screenwriter. It is a strong program overall, considering you do not have to submit a portfolio to get in. To get in, all you need to do is be accepted to the school - no portfolio required. You may be able to take busniess courses or double major in econ and film for example. Some kids will go on to get a MBA after a film degree to get the mix you’re looking for.</p>
<p>Other programs, usually ones that offer a BFA (bachelor fine arts, which means more studio hours, eg. hands-on) or BSC (bachelor of science, eg. more technical) usually require a portfolio to assess your ability to tell a story, to shoot, to edit, etc.</p>
<p>Two of the better know programs in North America are NYU’s Tisch School’s film degree, which is very competitive to get into; and USC (University of Southen California, a private school)'s School of Cinematic Arts, also very very competitive with portfolio. There are others with which I am not especially familiar (although I did go to film school in Canada many years ago so have vague knowledge of some…) Eg. I believe SCAD, Chapman, and some of the UCs have good programs.</p>
<p>However, I will also tell you that many professionals feel that the more meaningful approach to studying film is to first have a broad, liberal arts degree as an undergrad and then pursue film in a MFA (Masters Fine Art) program. That way you’ve developed your “voice”, gathered more experience, and are more richly “dimensioned” as a prospective writer or producer. A good guidebook that espouses this theory is call Film School Confidential. Google it to see if that’s the kind of help you need. I believe the author updates the info online.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<p>thanks for all the info</p>
<p>i certainly am looking for a liberal arts education as well as studying film. i just don’t think i can or my parents can afford grad school. but whatever. thanks for the help.</p>