FilmSchool.org

scaldwellkerson
scaldwellkerson
So technically at USC there is no “directing” program. You can select the directing track as your focus but they make the classes you need to make advanced projects really hard to get into, thus making a more competitive program for directors. I have my own opinions on this process that don’t really matter but no matter what, thesis or advanced project you have to be selected, it’s never a guarantee. There are a few classes that you can get away with making a film and not doing a thesis or advanced project and there’s interesting opportunities for grants that come through the school but they pride themselves on students being well rounded and not focused on one discipline.
One member found this helpful.
O
observer222
Thank you so much for answering!

Interesting...so just for my own understanding & clarification: as a Directing track student, let's say you don't get selected for an advanced project, and you also don't get selected to make a thesis...what are you coming out of the program with for your body of work?

Would it be just short films that you made for class assignments? Because I imagine those kind of assignments are where you're practicing and experimenting, not necessarily projects where you have more time to focus on exploring your story and the various stages of the filmmaking process in great detail (the way you would if you worked on a thesis film for an entire year for example).
O
observer222
I'm just thinking, if it's this competitive to get selected to make films at USC, I need to weigh what I would do if I didn't get selected to make any films, because that feels like an important part of film school for me - the chance to put concentrated time into making serious films and developing my artistic voice and skills as a director.

Latest Accepted Applications

View more applications
This Application in the Scattergram

Exclusive Supporting Member Benefits

Peak behind the admissions curtain. Supporting Members unlock full access to insightful data, interviews, and more...

Instant Keyword Alerts
Visible Supporter Badge & Highlighted Profile
Share Subscription with one family member or friend

Instant access • Cancel anytime

Applications
Articles
Forums
Film Schools
Scholarships
Back
Top