Have you ever dreamed of working in the movies, but want to stay close to home? Well, we have good news, the work is here, and now you can start the new-year training for a career in the film industry right here in Georgia too! The Georgia Film Academy’s inaugural term begins January 2016 with options in Gwinnett and throughout metro Atlanta. Initiated by Governor Nathan Deal and the state of Georgia, this unique program seeks to develop a partnership between Georgia’s university and technical college systems and the film industry.
According to Jeffrey Stepakoff, executive director of the GFA, “the Georgia Film academy certification puts students on the fast track to gainful employment” in the industry. Two courses will be offered initially. One course integrates classroom instruction using industry standard equipment. The other course is a semester working as a part of the crew on an actual production.
Classes will be available to students through Georgia universities, colleges and technical colleges, as well as for non-students. Gwinnett Technical College, the first technical college to participate, will offer classes beginning in February. The program will also begin at Clayton State University and Columbus State University in January.
Gwinnett Tech is enthusiastic about being one of the first colleges chosen to implement the Film Academy program. “This was an exciting opportunity for the college to be showcased and support our state’s focus on the film industry, “said Dr. Glen Cannon, president of Gwinnett Tech.
With hundreds of film and television productions flooding into the state, the number of films the state can produce at any one time is directly related to the number of Georgia filmmakers that make up the skilled workforce that can be hired. To increase the skilled workforce in demand, film curriculums and classes are offered in many of the area’s schools, at a range of different levels, including:
Gwinnett County Public High Schools
All seven Academy High Schools in Gwinnett County offer a “pathway” for students to learn about film, audio and video technology.
Georgia Gwinnett College
A minor in film with courses in film and video production. GCC students participate in Campus MovieFest, a national film competition.
Gwinnett Technical College
Film Academy Certificate Program (Pilot Program participant)
Georgia State University
Bachelor of Arts degree (and minor) in Film and Video and a Master of Arts degree in Communications with a concentration in Film, Video and Digital Imaging.
Georgia Perimeter College
Associate of Arts in Film
Emory University
The Film & Media Studies Department offers students a Bachelor and Master of Arts (and minor) in Film Studies and a PhD Certificate.
The Art Institute of Atlanta
Audio Production Bachelor of Arts
Atlanta Media Campus
Plans for this complex include a film school and courses in set design and animation.
