About Film & Television Production

Digital technology has changed TV and film - for the better. It’s opened up all new ways for content to be consumed, and has created renewed demand for professional content creators, producers, directors, cinematographers and editors, in new and exciting roles.

This hands-on course will give you the comprehensive knowledge and advanced skills to help you create and produce films, TV productions, live broadcasts, documentaries, TV commercials and music film clips.

Both the Diploma and Bachelor Degree are structured to help you develop above the line practitioners in key crew roles (which will appeal if you’re into serious filmmaking), as well as the range of skills you need to meet the diverse requirements of the industry.

Film and Television Production

Diploma of film and television

2 Trimesters

Fees / Domestic / International

Where / Sydney / Melbourne / Brisbane

Next intake 25/09/2017 / See all intake dates

Entry requirements / Aus / International

This Diploma introduces you to the fundamentals of film and TV, and explores history, cinematography, editing, lighting, location sound recording, sound design, screen writing and production management.

You will investigate the techniques and aesthetics of screen language and storytelling, while working on a range of projects including a television studio program, green screen exercises and documentary production.

The practical components will introduce you to the importance of working collaboratively in a range of crew roles, including crewing on other productions.

You will also be required to express your individual creativity and voice through more complex production exercises, including the completion of a short documentary.

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See the curriculum

Diploma of film and television

Curriculum

Subject

Producing I

The unit provides students with an insight into the role of the film and television producer. An effective producer must possess excellent management, research, writing and verbal communication skills, and should have a sound knowledge of industry protocols, organisations and legislation.

A combination of academic research and writing alongside production paperwork exercises will equip students to plan, schedule and effectively produce their JMC Academy student productions, and gain a solid understanding of the Australian film and television industry.

Post-Production I

This unit provides students with both theoretical and practical knowledge of editing and a range of post-production practices. Students will learn to engage with a range of software including AVID Media Composer 8 and Compression programs providing the fundamental skills required to edit and deliver most of their practical productions at JMC Academy.

Whether the production is a drama, documentary or music video, a solid understanding of editing theory, techniques and styles – including continuity style editing and montage theory - will help develop the student’s storytelling skills and creativity in the edit suite.

Camera and Lighting I

The purpose of this unit is to provide students with theoretical and practical knowledge of camera operation techniques. It will also examine lighting fixtures and lighting, enabling students to incorporate camera and lighting principles to a broad range of projects. The unit will also introduce and explore the relationship between lens and lighting as storytelling tools.

Production Project I: Studio Project

This unit is an introduction to the creative, technical, administrative and managerial aspects of film and television production. Students gain fundamental skills in the operation of cameras, lights, basic audio equipment and editing software, and engage with both single camera and multi-camera processes. This unit orientates the student to the physical production environment (both studio and location) and develops their essential technical skills for all future production projects.

Sound Recording and Design

The purpose of this unit is to explore sound, its properties, how it is captured and manipulated, and its relationship to the screen. Students will be introduced to the fundamental principles of sound, investigate the techniques necessary to record sound in the field or in the studio, and edit and mix sound for a range of film and television productions.

Sound is an important tool for conveying ideas, story and/or emotion and the skills and knowledge gained in this unit will prepare students for their screen productions at JMC Academy and beyond.

Production Project II: Documentary Production

This unit equips students with the skills and knowledge required to pitch and produce their own short documentary. There will be a range of in-class activities to train students in story development and research techniques, interviewing techniques, sound recording skills, documentary shooting and lighting techniques and green-screen compositing. Many of these skills and techniques will be utilised and then assessed in the final productions. Research, planning and communication skills are crucial to documentary production and students will need to be prepared to crew on each other’s productions and interact with individuals and organisations outside of JMC Academy as their subjects.

There will be a series of assessments throughout the trimester including an initial pitch, production paperwork and the final documentary film, which will be screened in week 13. Reflective practice is an important part of the process, and students will be required to submit an honest appraisal of each production they worked on in this unit.

Screenwriting I

Provides students with a foundation in the craft of screenwriting, with each student expected to write a short screenplay for potential production in the following trimester. Students will develop a fundamental understanding of story structure and learn to utilise the tools of a synopsis and treatment in the development of a short film or TV sitcom (situation comedy) script.

Students will develop their screenwriting ability through the examination of other writers’ works and existing screen content, and by dedicating their time to the required writing and rewriting processes. Students will also be asked to consider the production values and costs associated with their ideas, and encouraged to come up with short film or TV sitcom ideas that are achievable.

Screen History

An awareness of the history of film and television gives new screen practitioners the contextual knowledge to help them understand current technologies and protocols, and predict future trends. In this unit students will be given a broad overview of the major technological and cultural developments in the screen industry since the early days of cinema.

There is a focus on Hollywood, as a dominant influence on cinema internationally, and the Australian screen industry. Students will be introduced to some of the major Western film movements, periods and relevant industry figures. The overall aim is to broaden awareness of the artistic, cultural, political and economic contexts within which the local and international screen industry has developed and operated. Students will also continue to develop their academic research and writing skills in this unit.

Bachelor of Creative Arts
(Film and television)

6 Trimesters

Fees / Domestic / International

Where / Sydney / Melbourne / Brisbane

Next intake 25/09/2017 / See all intake dates

Entry requirements / Aus / International

Building on the Diploma, this Bachelor Degree also explores screenwriting, directing, cinematography, post production and screen studies.

It requires you to complete four projects that are of a greater size, scale and quality, including a short film, TV commercials and large-scale outside broadcast. You will also be given the chance to collaborate with JMC Academy’s Music Performance and Management students on a production piece (e.g. a music video). By trimester five, you’ll have applied your creative expression and understanding of technical operations and logistics to successfully meet the requirements of a client brief.

In the final trimesters, you will study advanced production management, post-production and motion graphics studies. You will be encouraged to seek internships, develop a feasible business plan, specialise in the creative, technical or management role that best interests you, and build a show reel to help you secure future employment.

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See the curriculum

Bachelor of Creative Arts
(Film and television)

Curriculum

Subject

Producing I

Post-Production I

Camera and Lighting I

Production Project I: Studio Project

Sound Recording and Design

Production Project II: Documentary Production

Screenwriting I

Screen History

Camera and Lighting II

In this unit, students move beyond merely lighting a scene, to using lighting as a means to express what the scene is about. This requires an investigation into the aesthetics of image design, and a more in-depth technical understanding of the camera, lenses and lighting and the relationships between these.

The unit enables students to creatively analyse a script and use the camera and lighting to convey emotion, style and narrative. This unit also provides students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge of camera and lighting in order to approach a broad range of projects. This unit covers the aesthetics of image design, investigating the relationships between lenses, light, framing, composition, movement and depth of field. Colour theory and the emotional qualities of light and images are also discussed during the course of this unit.

Post Production II

This unit provides students with both theoretical and practical knowledge of advanced editing techniques and a range of post production practices. Students will continue to engage with a range of software including Avid Media Composer 8, Sorenson Squeeze or Compressor, Photoshop and After Effects. Advanced editing skills are required to edit and deliver most practical productions at JMC Academy. This unit will further enhance the skills needed to develop music videos, television commercials, web series and short films. You will explore advanced editing techniques, advanced image manipulation, and be introduced to motion graphics and compositing.

Production Project III: Short Film

Short films are artistic products in their own right that can find festival and online audiences all over the world. However they are also seen as a training ground for aspiring feature film or television drama producers, directors and crew. In this unit students will work in specific drama crew roles on the production of a short film. Students will fulfil one key creative and one secondary role on productions to refine their understanding of drama production techniques, and will also be given the opportunity to produce a drama scene in both a single camera and multicamera studio context.

Outside Broadcast and Futures

This unit gives students essential knowledge required to understand broadcast and film processes, the complexity of the digital video signal and emerging formats. Students are also required to research the current state of TV broadcasting, High Definition production and beyond 1080P.

Students will gain a deeper insight into live production protocols using the 450 Tri-Caster system, the technical necessities of managing equipment operation, and setup procedures including testing and measurement procedures. Students will also gain an insight into new and emerging large digital film production format technologies such as 2K, 4K and 3D acquisitions.

This unit forms part of the Integration program, which can include an outside broadcast event working with music, animation, audio and entertainment business management students. When a major event such as a showcase, contemporary music performance night, conference or seminar is scheduled to be produced, a technical and operations crew will be formed from this unit to run the event. For the outside broadcast event, rehearsals form part of this unit and students will be required to engage in this process.

Screen and Genre Studies

An introduction to the study of film and television, video and digital media as mediums of fictional and documentary narrative, and a study of the major developments in the history of cinema. Films will be analysed formally in terms of narrative, editing, mise-en-scène, shots, lighting and sound, and stylistically in terms of genre and authorship. Different theoretical approaches to screen studies including aestheticism, discourse analysis and semiotics will be similarly investigated.

This unit develops students’ abilities to use a variety of critical approaches to studying screen and genre studies, with an emphasis on applying this to the development of their own creative projects.

This investigation will deepen the meaning of students’ creative projects and prepare them for advanced study and research. Successful engagement with this unit will enhance the process of ideas generation for graduate projects and provide a broader context to the impact of contemporary ideas.

Screenwriting II

This unit expands on the knowledge and skills developed in Screenwriting I, and introduces a more sophisticated range of writing tools. The unit explores various avenues of work for screenwriters, from short to long form, and one off films to series television. In the current screen production environment, developing original ideas that have a clearly identified target audience is part of the game. Market potential has a direct relationship to budget, but even writers for the HBO network need to consider the feasibility of their ideas.

Students will learn to analyse the marketplace and audience for their own work, and balance the production requirements accordingly by keeping locations, cast, art department, wardrobe and VFX elements to a minimum.

In this unit, students will develop a synopsis and treatment for a short animated or live action film, TV series pilot or web series, then go on to develop the screenplay. Students are actively encouraged to bring all of their work-in-progress to class for peer engagement and for lecturer comment and guidance throughout the trimester.

Production Project IV: Integration

The skills in this unit will develop the student’s capacity to deliver high quality creative products in a client driven environment. Integration is a whole-of campus production environment where each student has to collaborate with students from other departments in the planning and production of a music video. These productions will require a ‘real world’ approach as students will need to respond to a brief from management students and then collaborate with management, performance and possibly animation students in the production of a high quality music video.

To deepen their understanding of clientbased production environments, students will also be asked to produce a television or web advertorial. Like the music video production, responding to a brief and demonstrating an understanding of image, branding and target audiences are part of the challenge.

Teamwork, collaboration and professionalism are all crucial to the success of these productions. Ideally the student will develop relationships in this unit that they can take with them through the rest of their degree.

Directing I

The purpose of this unit is to provide students with an in-depth understanding of directing drama. These skills can be used in a number of mediums including; short films, feature films, scripted tv shows, TVCs and music videos.

Students will be introduced to the creative elements of directing such as script analysis, visualisation of the story, casting, directing performances and camera coverage.

The practicalities of being a working director will also be covered, such as how to ‘pitch’ for a directing job, storyboarding, shotlisting, communication with actors and crew while on set and the post-production process.

Some class time will be dedicated to the analysis of acclaimed directors and encouraging students to develop their own distinct directorial voice.

Producing II

The producer is the driving force for film and television productions, setting the goals and steering both the creative and administrative processes. The role starts well before preproduction begins, and continues after the final product is delivered.

This unit is designed to further develop the student’s producing skills by covering the current industry protocols from project inception through to distribution for a wide range of screen products. Production management paperwork will be covered including scheduling and budgeting, contracts, music clearances and licences, as well as the more creative endeavours of a producer – pitching, casting, compiling applications, financing, marketing and distribution.

Directing II: Mise en scene

In this unit students are introduced to the concept of mise-en-scène through the eyes of a director from both a practical and theoretical point of view. Image design and analysis is the focus, so the unit combines fundamental screen studies principles with an in-depth analysis of the creative production skills required from a director.

There are many varying definitions for mise-en-scène, but broadly it encompasses everything within the frame. Students will gain insight into how directors view lighting, palette, camera selection, camera movement, lens choice, framing, set design, sound design, blocking and editing in the telling of a dramatic story. As emerging screen story tellers, students will be expected to develop an active visual interpretive perspective and use acquired insights for helping to discover their own directorial style.

Specialised Project III

This unit goes hand in hand with FTV 408 Graduation Project, providing students with the opportunity to devise and collaborate on several major creative projects. The project units are designed to showcase the students’ unique skills and talents. Ideally the production work submitted in FTV 408 will become the student’s ‘calling card’ in the industry.

Graduation projects can include a studio program, short films, web series, television or feature film pilots or documentaries, but regardless of the production type, all projects are subject to time limits set by the lecturer. Productions under 12 minutes will be looked on most favourably, but all projects will be considered on merit. Script or program development, the evolution of a creative vision and pitch, and pre-production are the main areas of focus of this unit, with some productions moving into the shooting stage during this trimester.

All students will crew on each other’s productions, and contribute the appropriate pre-production planning and paperwork required. Each student is required to do one major and one minor role (on separate projects) over the slate of productions, but there is also the option of doing four minor roles if a student wishes to specialise in a specific crew role, or does not want to take on the responsibility of a major role.

Post-Production III

This unit offers students the opportunity to understand the collaborative nature of creating and producing broadcast and film title designs, station identities and graphics for the screen.

During this unit students will develop their skills and knowledge in the process involved in responding to return briefs and creating projects from pre-visualization to effective realization.

Studying this unit will also enable students to develop and finalize their motion graphic sequences for inclusion into their own major work. Students will be able to utilize their pitching skills for effective communication and also build a professional portfolio for prospective employers. The final rendered sequence will be an important acquisition to each student’s showreel.

International Cinema

This unit examines a range of non-Hollywood national cinemas from a global and transnational perspective. Key theoretical approaches to national and international cinemas are examined, along with significant historical, textual, representational, and ideological issues. Students will also explore the significant differences between Hollywood mainstream productions and the critical challenges posed by local production, distribution and exhibition models, along with those faced by filmmakers within these different cultures.

Professional Development

This subject is aimed at giving the student the tools and skills needed to seek employment upon completion of the program. Preparation of showreels and portfolios, letter writing and interview skills, and the promotion of oneself as a unique “brand” in a creative industry all form part of the content. Students will have the opportunity to test their presentation skills in both mock and real environments. They will draw on the work completed during the course as well as charting a direction for the future, and preparing a set of materials to take with them into their job-seeking. Students may, as a part of this unit, have the opportunity to connect with industry representatives at site visits, “speed-dating’ interviews, and other events.

Graduate Project

The purpose of this unit is to draw upon the student’s ability to apply conceptual knowledge and creative and technical skills to a polished professional standard in the production and post production of the Major Production that was pre-produced in FTV404.

This unit provides the student with an opportunity to collaborate on a range of complex, real world projects in both major and minor roles and working to a deadline. This unit completes the student’s professional and practical study at JMC Academy. The student is now in a position to establish themselves as a film and television industry practitioner with a portfolio of work that can become their ‘calling card’ in the industry.

Throughout the trimester, there will be some directed classes, but most weeks students will be expected to attend scheduled post production meetings with their team mates and lecturer.

Careers in the Industry

Graduates may find employment with

A career in film and television is challenging and highly rewarding. Knowledge of screen theory and production practice prepare you for a successful transition into the industry.

During your studies, you will develop extensive experience working on a diverse range of productions, collaborating with students from other creative disciplines and using a range of different equipment, all of which are paramount to a successful career.

Whether you are drawn towards content creation or production, as a graduate you will be able to pursue employment in a wide variety of creative, technical or managerial roles within the screen industry.

Specific roles may include

CREATIVE
Director
Cinematographer
Scriptwriter
Editor

MANAGEMENT
Producer
Production Manager
Post Production Supervisor
Business Owner
Freelancer

TECHNICAL/CRAFT
Technical Director
Motion Graphics Designer
Lighting Designer
Sound Recordist
Camera Operator
Camera Assistant
Data Wrangler

Student testimonials

"JMC really kicked the door open for me. With solid skills training and industry networking opportunities, JMC really does hold the key to success in this industry." - Charles Duncombe

Head of Creative, SoHO & Showcase Channels - Foxtel Network | Film and Television Production Alumni
and 2014 Alumni Award Recipient and Promax and Astra Award Winner
"The foundation I gained at JMC made me feel competent from my first role. Now I drive to work through Hollywood, where I work on amazing projects every day. I have reached my life goal!"-Brett Morris

Senior Motion Designer, Capacity Studio, CA USA | Film and Television Production Alumni
"I loved my time at JMC Academy and got a lot out of my degree which combined elements of digital animation and film and television production."
– Scott Petts

Art Director, HBO New York | Film and Television Production Alumni
and 2012 Emmy Award Nominee for Outstanding Creative Achievement in Interactive Media (Game of Thrones)

Faqs

Do I need to provide samples of work to support my application for the Film & Television Production course?

No, you do not need to provide any samples of work to be eligible. However, you are welcome to provide samples of work. Any scripts you’ve written, youtube clips, short films, story boards you’ve drawn, visual and written ideas for films or tv shows, and any technical experience you may have had either in school, via extracurricular activities, work experience or volunteer work.

I have never used film equipment. Will I still be able to do well in the Film & Television Production course?

Absolutely. You need not have had any experience with film equipment as we cater to all levels of experience.

What equipment and knowledge will I need for the Film & Television Production course?

You will not need to purchase your own computer or any film gear as we have fully equipped editing suites and an equipment loan service with quality mics, lighting, cameras and a myriad of accessories available for student use.

What software programs will I use in the Film & Television Production course?

You will mainly be working with AVID editing software, and you will also gain exposure to Media Composer, Photoshop and After Effects, and certain types of screenwriting software.

I want to be a film maker and am not as interested in television. Is the Film & Television Production course the right course for me?

Although you may want to be a film maker, it is important to have a wide range of skills when entering the industry. You will still learn about film making in great detail, however this course will provide you with a greater range of career options upon graduation. The skills learnt may be applied to film as well as television production.

What kind of assessments will I do in the Film & Television Production course?

You will do a range of assessments that will demonstrate your understanding, including short film making, documentaries, television commercials, music videos, live broadcasts and multi-cam, pitches and presentations, sound recording, film analysis and screenplays. At the end of the Bachelor there is project based work where you'll be able to choose your main assessment, which could be any of the above.

When can I start using the cameras and equipment in the Film & Television Production course?

You'll start learning the proper way to handle the film gear in your first Trimester. Students are then assessed on their competency for handling the equipment. Once this is undertaken, students are able to loan cameras and equipment suitable for their on campus or on location shoots, projects and assessments.

About Film & Television Production

Film and Television Production

Diploma of film and television

Bachelor of Creative Arts (Film and television)

Careers in the Industry

Graduates may find employment with

Specific roles may include

Student testimonials

Faqs

Bachelor of Creative Arts
(Film and television)