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Top Filmmaking Schools in Mississippi You Should Know About
Thinking about a career in film? Choosing the right school is crucial.
This article covers the top filmmaking schools in Mississippi that can help you develop your skills and launch your career. Whether you’re interested in production, directing, or editing, these schools offer programs tailored to various aspects of filmmaking.
University of Mississippi – B.F.A. in Film Production
Discover the intense and professionally-focused B.F.A. in Film Production program at the University of Mississippi. Tailored for undergraduate students, this program lets you jump into filmmaking right from the start.
Key Features:
- Early Hands-On Learning: Begin making films from the first month of your first semester.
- Individual Mentorship: A low student-to-teacher ratio ensures personal mentorship.
- Flexible Curriculum: Customize your courses to suit your creative interests.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access to sound stages, private editing suites, and a Foley sound recording studio.
- Comprehensive Coursework: Complete 73 credit hours in film production, along with courses in theater history, literature, and theory.
This competitive program requires a portfolio review and interview for admission. Graduates are well-prepared for both industry careers and further studies in film.
For more information, visit the University of Mississippi’s Film Production Program.
The University of Southern Mississippi – Media and Entertainment Arts Degree
The Media and Entertainment Arts (MEA) program at the University of Southern Mississippi equips you for careers in the thriving media and entertainment industry, with core courses in media production and three major options: MEA Management, Video Arts, and Sound & Recording.
Key Features:
- Specializations: Choose from MEA Management, Video Arts, or Sound & Recording to focus on your area of interest.
- Comprehensive Core Curriculum: Courses in media production, industry essentials, and digital skills.
- Practical Experience: Opportunities for internships in television, live production, and social media.
- Scholarships: Over $20,000 awarded annually to students in the program.
- Notable Alumni: Graduates include industry professionals like Tena Clark and Alex Vanderleest.
With a mix of theory and practical skills, this program prepares you for various roles such as commercial producer, sound engineer, or screenwriter.
Explore further details at the University of Southern Mississippi’s MEA Program.
Mississippi State University – Minor in Film Studies
Enhance your major with the Minor in Film Studies at Mississippi State University. This program provides an in-depth understanding of film language, history, and production techniques.
Key Features:
- Core and Elective Courses: Required course in “Introduction to Film” and core options like Film Theory and Advanced Cinema Studies.
- Flexible Electives: Choose from a variety of electives including Video Art, Digital Photography, and Gender and Media.
- Student Organization: Participate in The Scene, a student-run organization dedicated to filmmaking, offering hands-on experience in creating short films.
This minor complements numerous majors, offering a broad perspective on global filmmaking practices.
Find out more at the Mississippi State University’s Film Studies Program.
Mississippi School of the Arts – Filmmaking Program
The Mississippi School of the Arts (MSA) Filmmaking Program is designed for high school students passionate about film. This residential program immerses students in every aspect of filmmaking, from planning to post-production.
Key Features:
- Two-Year Residency: Available to juniors and seniors through an audition process in their sophomore year.
- Hands-On Experience: Opportunities for hundreds of hours dedicated to film planning, directing, filming, and editing.
- Community Engagement: Gain community service hours through local film festivals and creative arts organizations.
- Student Success: Many graduates secure jobs or advance to prestigious film schools.
Mentorship from experienced faculty and real-world projects make this program ideal for young filmmakers.
Learn more at the Mississippi School of the Arts Filmmaking Program.
Mississippi School of the Arts – Media Arts Program
The Media Arts Program at the Mississippi School of the Arts (MSA) offers an engaging, college-level education in cinematic arts for high school students. This comprehensive program equips you with essential skills for a successful career in the film industry.
Key Features:
- Diverse Curriculum: Study film production, directing, sound recording, and editing.
- Experienced Instructors: Learn from professionals like John Kelly Shelburne, who hold advanced degrees and have industry experience.
- Hands-On Learning: Gain practical experience in planning, casting, directing, filming, and editing.
- Recognition: Students regularly win awards in competitions like the Scholastic Art Mississippi Regional Competition.
The residential setting of MSA provides an immersive learning environment focused on fostering artistic development with an emphasis on honor and integrity.
For additional details, visit the Mississippi School of the Arts Media Arts Program.
Desoto Arts Institute – Film School 101
Since its establishment in 2016, Desoto Arts Institute (DAI) has been nurturing the next generation of filmmakers with its Film School 101. This program aims to transform beginners into confident filmmakers in just a year.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Learn story writing, directing, location scouting, production management, editing, and more.
- Practical Experience: Work in various roles to gain a holistic understanding of filmmaking.
- Accessibility: The program is free for students, funded by sponsors.
- Additional Opportunities: Participate in Saturday workshops and the annual DeSoto Film Festival.
DAI’s commitment to faith, film, and storytelling provides a unique and enriching experience for high school students, college students, and working adults.
Learn more about the program at Desoto Arts Institute Film School 101.
Sunflower County Film Academy – 5-week Intensive Filmmaking Program
The Sunflower County Film Academy offers an intensive 5-week filmmaking program for high school students in the Mississippi Delta. This initiative, supported by a W.K. Kellogg Foundation grant, is designed to introduce young filmmakers to the digital storytelling world.
Key Features:
- Free Program: No cost to students, making filmmaking education accessible.
- Professional Equipment: Access to professional-grade video equipment.
- Diverse Curriculum: Develop skills in various aspects of filmmaking while creating original video stories.
- Community Collaboration: Work with organizations like the Emmett Till Interpretive Center.
Notably, the works of students have been showcased at prestigious events like the Sundance Film Festival. This program aims to empower students to explore filmmaking as a means of expressing their unique voices and addressing social issues.
For more information, visit the Sunflower County Film Academy.
How to Choose the Best Filmmaking School in Mississippi
Choosing the right filmmaking school can significantly impact your career trajectory. Here’s what to consider:
- Program Curriculum: Ensure the program offers courses and specializations that align with your interests, such as directing, screenwriting, or production.
- Facilities and Equipment: Look for schools with state-of-the-art facilities, including sound stages, editing suites, and recording studios.
- Faculty Expertise: Research the faculty’s industry experience to benefit from their knowledge and connections.
- Hands-on Experience: Practical experience is crucial. Seek programs offering internships, collaborative projects, and real-world filming opportunities.
- Alumni Success: Investigate the success stories of the school’s alumni. Notable graduates can indicate the program’s effectiveness.
- Scholarships and Financial Aid: Consider schools that offer substantial financial aid through scholarships and grants. This can ease the financial burden.
- Location and Network: A school’s location can affect networking opportunities. Schools in areas with vibrant film communities may offer more advantages.
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can select a filmmaking school in Mississippi that fits your career goals.
Filmmaking Schools By State
Conclusion
With various filmmaking schools in Mississippi offering diverse programs, it’s essential to select one that aligns with your career aspirations. Whether you choose the University of Mississippi, the University of Southern Mississippi, Mississippi State University, or any specialized institution like MSA, each provides the tools and opportunities to succeed in the film industry. Explore the links provided to gather more information and take the first step towards your future in filmmaking.