A filmmaking student behind a camera filming a scene on set

Filmmaking

Houston City College’s Filmmaking Program prepares students for exciting careers in media and film production. You’ll build hands-on skills in every major area of filmmaking—including screenwriting, producing, directing, cinematography, editing, and sound—while learning how to bring a story to life from start to finish. From developing your idea in pre-production, to filming on set, to editing and sharing your final project with an audience, you’ll gain real-world experience in every phase of the filmmaking process.

Career Path
Art & Design
Education Tracks

Programs

Filmmaking - General, A.A.S.

Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
Education track: University Transfer

HCC’s Filmmaking Program offers training for a career in media production by providing students with a solid foundation in six disciplines of filmmaking (screenwriting, producing, directing, cinematography, editing, and sound). Students will learn all phases of filmmaking: pre-production, production, post-production, and distribution.

In this innovative hands-on program, students work with HD and 16mm film cameras and edit with both non-linear digital and traditional equipment. During their academic career, students perform every function necessary to complete theatrical, documentary, and docu-drama style films: scriptwriting, producing, directing, acting, shooting, budgeting, managing and serving as crew.

After their first year, students refine their skills through the rigorous application of their craft in advanced areas of theatrical, feature and documentary film production. Upon graduation, students pursue careers in all levels of the film industry.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) allows students to earn only one AAS in Filmmaking. Students may choose from one of the following two specializations: General, or Film/Video and Special Effects.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) allows students to earn only one Certificate in Filmmaking I. Students may choose from one of the following four specializations: Filmmaking Editing, Film/Video Production, Filmmaking Screenwriting or Film/Video and Special Effects.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) allows students to earn only one Certificate in Filmmaking II. Students may choose from one of the following two specializations: General or Film/Video and Special Effects.

Note a student may only earn one Occupational Skills Award (OSA) per academic year.

TSI testing required prior to first enrollment for all AAS degrees and Level II certificates.

HCC is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Seven Art and Design Programs—Studio Art, Interior Design, Digital Communication, Fashion Design, Fashion Merchandising, Filmmaking, and Digital Gaming & Simulation for Artists—collectively represent the Art and Design Unit at HCC.

National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)
11250 Roger Bacon Drive, Suite 21
Reston, VA 20190-5248
Phone: 703-437-0700
Website: nasad.arts-accredit.org

National Association of schools of art & design

STUDENTS WILL BE ABLE TO:

  • Compose effective treatments and scripts for use in common video and film genres including documentaries, dramas, commercials, news, and public service announcements. Demonstrate the preparation needed for film and video production, management (including budgeting, supervision of personnel, permitting, scheduling and guild/union relations) and post-production supervision.

  • Describe accepted film industry distribution processes including promotions, advertising, and publicity. Demonstrate industry standard film/video editing and post-production processes used in the completion of shorts, trailers, documentaries, and features.

  • Apply cinematographic concepts to film/video projects including camera setup, lighting, and scene design. Develop professionally acceptable resumes, demo reels and interview techniques needed for employment within the film industry.

Have Questions?

We are here to help.

Melvin Mays

Duration
2 years (full time)
Program Format
  • In-Person
  • Hybrid
Campus Location
Total Minimum Credits: 60

View the Filmmaking - General, A.A.S.Program degree plan to see the total credit hours required.

Cost

Enter the semester credit hours into the Tuition & Cost Calculator to estimate tuition. 

Filmmaking, C1

Certificate 1
Education track: Workforce Training

Students may earn one Certificate Level I in one of the specializations below by completing the requirements for the chosen specialization.

In this innovative hands-on program, students work with HD and 16mm film cameras and edit with both non-linear digital and traditional equipment. During their academic career, students perform every function necessary to complete theatrical, documentary, and docu-drama style films: scriptwriting, producing, directing, acting, shooting, budgeting, managing and serving as crew.

After their first year, students refine their skills through the rigorous application of their craft in advanced areas of theatrical, feature and documentary film production. Upon graduation, students pursue careers in all levels of the film industry.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) allows students to earn only one AAS in Filmmaking. Students may choose from one of the following two specializations: General, or Film/Video and Special Effects.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) allows students to earn only one Certificate in Filmmaking I. Students may choose from one of the following four specializations: Filmmaking Editing, Film/Video Production, Filmmaking Screenwriting or Film/Video and Special Effects.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) allows students to earn only one Certificate in Filmmaking II. Students may choose from one of the following two specializations: General or Film/Video and Special Effects.

Note a student may only earn one Occupational Skills Award (OSA) per academic year.

TSI testing required prior to first enrollment for all AAS degrees and Level II certificates.

HCC is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Seven Art and Design Programs—Studio Art, Interior Design, Digital Communication, Fashion Design, Fashion Merchandising, Filmmaking, and Digital Gaming & Simulation for Artists—collectively represent the Art and Design Unit at HCC.

National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)
11250 Roger Bacon Drive, Suite 21
Reston, VA 20190-5248
Phone: 703-437-0700
Website: nasad.arts-accredit.org

 

Have Questions?

We are here to help.

Melvin Mays

Duration
2 semesters (full time)
Program Format
  • In-Person
  • Hybrid
Campus Location
Total Minimum Credits for the Level 1 Certificate: 24

View the Filmmaking, C1 to see the total credit hours required.

Cost

Enter the semester credit hours into the Tuition & Cost Calculator to estimate tuition. 

Filmmaking - General, C2

Certificate 2
Education track: Workforce Training

Students wishing for a complete education in film production without the academic courses required by an associate degree should pursue this certificate. All courses in this certificate apply towards the AAS in Filmmaking.

In this innovative hands-on program, students work with HD and 16mm film cameras and edit with both non-linear digital and traditional equipment. During their academic career, students perform every function necessary to complete theatrical, documentary, and docu-drama style films: scriptwriting, producing, directing, acting, shooting, budgeting, managing and serving as crew.

After their first year, students refine their skills through the rigorous application of their craft in advanced areas of theatrical, feature and documentary film production. Upon graduation, students pursue careers in all levels of the film industry.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) allows students to earn only one AAS in Filmmaking. Students may choose from one of the following two specializations: General, or Film/Video and Special Effects.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) allows students to earn only one Certificate in Filmmaking I. Students may choose from one of the following four specializations: Filmmaking Editing, Film/Video Production, Filmmaking Screenwriting or Film/Video and Special Effects.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) allows students to earn only one Certificate in Filmmaking II. Students may choose from one of the following two specializations: General or Film/Video and Special Effects.

Note a student may only earn one Occupational Skills Award (OSA) per academic year.

TSI testing required prior to first enrollment for all AAS degrees and Level II certificates.

HCC is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Seven Art and Design Programs—Studio Art, Interior Design, Digital Communication, Fashion Design, Fashion Merchandising, Filmmaking, and Digital Gaming & Simulation for Artists—collectively represent the Art and Design Unit at HCC.

National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)
11250 Roger Bacon Drive, Suite 21
Reston, VA 20190-5248
Phone: 703-437-0700
Website: nasad.arts-accredit.org

 

Have Questions?

We are here to help.

Melvin Mays

Duration
2 full years (full time)
Program Format
  • In-Person
  • Hybrid
Campus Location
Total Minimum Credits for the Level 2 Certificate: 48

View the Filmmaking - General, C2 to see the total credit hours required.

Cost

Enter the semester credit hours into the Tuition & Cost Calculator to estimate tuition. 

Filmmaking - Film/video Production - Specialization, C1

Certificate 1
Education track: Workforce Training

Students prepare for a career in film production by acquiring hundreds of production hours. Courses include cinematography, general production and lighting. All courses in this certificate apply towards the AAS in Filmmaking.

In this innovative hands-on program, students work with HD and 16mm film cameras and edit with both non-linear digital and traditional equipment. During their academic career, students perform every function necessary to complete theatrical, documentary, and docu-drama style films: scriptwriting, producing, directing, acting, shooting, budgeting, managing and serving as crew.

After their first year, students refine their skills through the rigorous application of their craft in advanced areas of theatrical, feature and documentary film production. Upon graduation, students pursue careers in all levels of the film industry.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) allows students to earn only one AAS in Filmmaking. Students may choose from one of the following two specializations: General, or Film/Video and Special Effects.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) allows students to earn only one Certificate in Filmmaking I. Students may choose from one of the following four specializations: Filmmaking Editing, Film/Video Production, Filmmaking Screenwriting or Film/Video and Special Effects.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) allows students to earn only one Certificate in Filmmaking II. Students may choose from one of the following two specializations: General or Film/Video and Special Effects.

Note a student may only earn one Occupational Skills Award (OSA) per academic year.

TSI testing required prior to first enrollment for all AAS degrees and Level II certificates.

HCC is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Seven Art and Design Programs—Studio Art, Interior Design, Digital Communication, Fashion Design, Fashion Merchandising, Filmmaking, and Digital Gaming & Simulation for Artists—collectively represent the Art and Design Unit at HCC.

National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)
11250 Roger Bacon Drive, Suite 21
Reston, VA 20190-5248
Phone: 703-437-0700
Website: nasad.arts-accredit.org

 

Have Questions?

We are here to help.

Melvin Mays

Duration
2 semesters (full time)
Program Format
  • In-Person
  • Hybrid
Campus Location
Total Minimum Credits for the Level 1 Certificate: 24

View the Filmmaking - Film/video Production - Specialization, C1 to see the total credit hours required.

Cost

Enter the semester credit hours into the Tuition & Cost Calculator to estimate tuition. 

Filmmaking - Editing - Specialization, C1

Certificate 1
Education track: Workforce Training

Students prepare for a career in film editing by acquiring hundreds of hours using non-linear editing platforms. The certificate also includes courses in audio post production using computer programs such as Pro Tools. All courses in this certificate apply towards the AAS in Filmmaking.

In this innovative hands-on program, students work with HD and 16mm film cameras and edit with both non-linear digital and traditional equipment. During their academic career, students perform every function necessary to complete theatrical, documentary, and docu-drama style films: scriptwriting, producing, directing, acting, shooting, budgeting, managing and serving as crew.

After their first year, students refine their skills through the rigorous application of their craft in advanced areas of theatrical, feature and documentary film production. Upon graduation, students pursue careers in all levels of the film industry.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) allows students to earn only one AAS in Filmmaking. Students may choose from one of the following two specializations: General, or Film/Video and Special Effects.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) allows students to earn only one Certificate in Filmmaking I. Students may choose from one of the following four specializations: Filmmaking Editing, Film/Video Production, Filmmaking Screenwriting or Film/Video and Special Effects.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) allows students to earn only one Certificate in Filmmaking II. Students may choose from one of the following two specializations: General or Film/Video and Special Effects.

Note a student may only earn one Occupational Skills Award (OSA) per academic year.

TSI testing required prior to first enrollment for all AAS degrees and Level II certificates.

HCC is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Seven Art and Design Programs—Studio Art, Interior Design, Digital Communication, Fashion Design, Fashion Merchandising, Filmmaking, and Digital Gaming & Simulation for Artists—collectively represent the Art and Design Unit at HCC.

National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)
11250 Roger Bacon Drive, Suite 21
Reston, VA 20190-5248
Phone: 703-437-0700
Website: nasad.arts-accredit.org

 

Have Questions?

We are here to help.

Melvin Mays

Duration
2 semesters (full time)
Program Format
  • In-Person
Campus Location
Total Minimum Credits for the Level 1 Certificate: 21

View the Filmmaking - General, C2 to see the total credit hours required.

Cost

Enter the semester credit hours into the Tuition & Cost Calculator to estimate tuition. 

Filmmaking - Screenwriting - Specialization, C1

Certificate 1
Education track: Workforce Training

Students interested in a career in screenwriting should choose this option since it emphasizes skills used when writing scripts for film and video productions. All courses in this certificate apply towards the AAS in Filmmaking.

In this innovative hands-on program, students work with HD and 16mm film cameras and edit with both non-linear digital and traditional equipment. During their academic career, students perform every function necessary to complete theatrical, documentary, and docu-drama style films: scriptwriting, producing, directing, acting, shooting, budgeting, managing and serving as crew.

After their first year, students refine their skills through the rigorous application of their craft in advanced areas of theatrical, feature and documentary film production. Upon graduation, students pursue careers in all levels of the film industry.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) allows students to earn only one AAS in Filmmaking. Students may choose from one of the following two specializations: General, or Film/Video and Special Effects.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) allows students to earn only one Certificate in Filmmaking I. Students may choose from one of the following four specializations: Filmmaking Editing, Film/Video Production, Filmmaking Screenwriting or Film/Video and Special Effects.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) allows students to earn only one Certificate in Filmmaking II. Students may choose from one of the following two specializations: General or Film/Video and Special Effects.

Note a student may only earn one Occupational Skills Award (OSA) per academic year.

TSI testing required prior to first enrollment for all AAS degrees and Level II certificates.

Have Questions?

We are here to help.

Melvin Mays

Duration
2 semesters (full time)
Program Format
  • In-Person
  • Hybrid
Campus Location
Total Minimum Credits for the Level 1 Certificate: 24

View the Filmmaking - Screenwriting - Specialization, C1 to see the total credit hours required.

Cost

Enter the semester credit hours into the Tuition & Cost Calculator to estimate tuition.