When a program has a split focus, there is always the chance that one aspect will get more attention than the other. However, through a balanced approach, Centennial College’s Broadcasting and Film program has been training — for more than 30 years —some of Canada’s best writers, directors, producers, production crewmembers and studio executives for the broadcasting and film industry.

As one of the city’s most respected film and broadcasting schools, this offering prides itself on offering students hands-on experience that backs up theory. As such, students study out of digital HD broadcast studios that feature modern equipment and systems. In these facilities, students attend a range of classes.

Film-based courses:

  • Film Appreciation and Analysis: Students learn the history of film and various forms of criticism. This allows them to gain a better understanding of the genre and an appreciation for what makes films worth watching and making.
  • Filmmaking: Students study both the art and the execution of the filmmaking process. The emphasis is on storytelling, production, and postproduction in the making of individual and group films.
  • Screenwriting: Screenplay format, structure and narrative language are covered with an emphasis on the art of storytelling. Course assignments include writing “Final Films” that are then produced.

Broadcasting-based courses:

  • Radio Production: An overview course, this aspect of the program examines the structure and operation of radio stations, production companies and other related companies. The course also covers theoretical aspects of the basic radio field and control room/studio equipment.
  • TV Studio: A fully hands-on course, each lab in this class involves instruction and demonstration followed by hands-on operation of equipment and systems in the production of simple television programs.
  • Broadcast Career Management: This class is based on a combination of classroom instruction, weekend workshops and one-on-one time with the course supervisor. It teaches students how to be successful in their careers.

Additionally, students participate in student films and TV, as well as the JOURNAL, a student-produced news magazine TV show that airs live and online; and create an advanced body of produced work for a professional portfolio.

Whether students’ ultimate goal is to work in TV or radio broadcast program, or film, they benefit from the program’s last-semester field placement. This opportunity sees them working in the field with professionals to enhance their resume and become comfortable with the tasks they may complete once they launch their career. Among the companies with which Centennial College has field placement partnerships are: CBC, CTV, Cuppa Coffee Studios, Red Apple Productions, The Score, WNED TV Buffalo and more.

While grads are completely prepared for jobs with radio and television stations, including specialty channels; production companies; corporate and commercial TV/Film production houses; feature and series film producers; and web production companies, Centennial College also makes the transition to further education seamless. This is due to educational partnerships with Athabasca University; Davenport University, Griffith University (Australia; and University of Ontario Institute of Technology, which allow them to apply academic credit towards further study.