How many people apply and are accepted into the cinema production, digital arts and screenwriting programs each year?

The number of students who apply to the cinema, digital arts and screenwriting programs fluctuates from year to year. On average, the cinema department receives approximately 275 applications for approximately 90 spaces.

Does the creative sample for the portfolio require a film-related sample (DVD, screenplay, etc.)?

No. If you have a short film, animation project, digital arts piece or script that you want to submit, that's great. However, we are also interested in looking at anything you've done creatively. This could include poetry, a short story, a music CD, photographs, etc. We really want to see something that has come from you.

Once I submit my portfolio, what happens after that?

You will be contacted by the University to schedule a portfolio interview with a cinema & digital arts department faculty member. It is preferred that these interviews are in person on campus; however, phone interviews are also conducted.

What do I need to do to prepare for the interview?

The interviews are fairly relaxed and offer you a chance to ask questions about the program and for the interviewer to ask questions of you. The interviews usually cover your interest in filmmaking, digital arts, and/or screenwriting; influences; and your creative work.

After I go through the interview process, how long will it take before I hear a decision?

It usually takes one to two weeks to hear back after the interview.

Does the cinema department offer scholarship and work-study money to students?

More than two-thirds of cinema & digital arts students receive scholarship and apprenticeship money. (Please note: An apprenticeship offered to a student based on his or her interview is a job-related award. The student will be expected to work a set number of hours per week in exchange for a monthly stipend.) Further, the cinema & digital arts department offers a number of additional scholarships to students as they progress throughout their programs. For more information on awards, refer to Scholarships and Apprenticeships.

Can I double major or declare a minor?

Due to the intensity of our program, a double major can be pursued but the student should expect to take more time complete both degrees — usually one or two additional semesters. Minors are available in many of the programs, and we encourage our students to pursue additional interests.

How much film, digital arts, and/or screenwriting experience/training should a prospective student have prior to attending Point Park?

You are not required to have any film, digital arts and/or screenwriting experience prior to entering the cinema department. If you do have experience in one or more areas of cinema production, this will help you become acclimated to the cameras and software more quickly.

Do I need to bring a camera or editing software with me when I start at Point Park?

No. The cinema department provides all the HD cameras, lighting, equipment and computer labs you'll need while in the program. We also make some cameras and equipment available to students for projects outside of course work.

What is the average size of cinema production, digital arts and screenwriting classes at Point Park?

The average ratio for cinema production and screenwriting workshop classes is 15:1, and most advanced production, animation and writing classes have a class ratio of 10:1.

Does the cinema department provide budget money for student films?

The department does provide a production budget to the student for the third-year production project.

What are the advantages that Pittsburgh will add to my education?

Other than great locations to use for productions, whether it is an inner-city story or a quick escape to the rural surroundings, Pittsburgh has become a magnet for feature film and television production. The city has the largest sound stage on the East Coast and hosts many productions that students can work on in multiple production and post-production positions.

How does Point Park help graduating seniors with career employment?

In conjunction with career services, the cinema department helps students obtain internships and employment with production companies and productions in Pittsburgh, as well as in Los Angeles and New York. The department also produces its annual Cinema Showcase DVD, which is sent to talent agencies and productions in New York, Los Angeles and regionally. We also hold a number of public screenings of student work.

Have student films screened at film festivals?

Yes. Student work has been screened at national and international film festivals. Please see Student Opportunities for more information.

Does the cinema department help facilitate entering films, animation projects and scripts into festivals and competitions?

While the cinema department doesn't submit work on behalf of the student, student work accepted into festivals in which students attend may submit a request to have expenses reimbursed from the school.