May 08, 2024  
PUBLISHED 2024-2025 Credit Catalog 
    
PUBLISHED 2024-2025 Credit Catalog

Film and Video Production

Location(s): In Person (Main Campus)


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Are you passionate about the power of film and video to entertain, inform and inspire? Do you want to be part of an industry that shapes our understanding of the world and captivates audiences? If so, our Film and Video Production program is your gateway to a career in the world of media.

In this program, you will learn:

  • understand how to convey compelling narratives and visual experiences through creative storytelling
  • to explore the creative process of scriptwriting, developing stories that resonate with viewers on both emotional and intellectual levels
  • gain hands-on experience in all aspects of production, from producing and directing to cinematography and sound recording.
  • how to bring your creative vision to life through practical training and real-world projects
  • the skills necessary for editing and post-production work.
  • the art of editing, sound design and visual effects to elevate your storytelling and filmmaking;
  • to understand the business aspects of the film and video industry, from, navigating the industry landscape, securing funding, getting tax credits, marketing your work and turning your passion into a sustainable career.

Our program is designed to prepare you for a career in Canada’s evolving media industries. Stay current with the latest industry trends and technologies taught in film school.

Immerse yourself in a unique learning environment that combines traditional teaching methods with hands-on production and project models. Experience the thrill of creating your own films and videos from start to finish.

Whether you aspire to be a filmmaker, cinematographer, editor or television producer, our program will equip you with the knowledge and experience to thrive in this dynamic field.

Traits, skills and aptitudes


People in film and video production tend to be innovative, directive and social.

You need:

  • creativity
  • adaptability and perseverance
  • good judgement for hiring key people
  • passion for their work
  • an entrepreneurial spirit
  • a comprehensive network of industry talent
  • critical thinking skills
  • financial and time management skills
  • leadership and communication skills
  • the ability to work with a wide variety of people
  • the ability to give and take constructive criticism
  • the ability to identify what makes a great story and know how to tell it effectively
  • the ability to deal with stress
  • a willingness to attend festivals, awards shows and industry workshops to network and form partnerships
  • a willingness to be held accountable for all decisions made.

To do well in this field, you should enjoy having variety in your work, finding innovative solutions to problems, coordinating productions and negotiating with people.

Practicum, co-op and work integrated learning opportunities


This program includes an optional work term between the first and second year.

The work placement includes full-time paid employment.

Credential


Upon successful completion of this program, you will be awarded a SAIT Film and Video Production diploma.

Program length


2 years

Accepts international applicants - PGWP-eligible


This program accepts international applicants and meets the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program, as long as the student is registered in on-campus classes or completes more than 50% of the courses on campus (for blended options). 

International students attending all classes online will NOT be eligible for a Post-Graduate Work Permit. International students are responsible for maintaining their eligibility throughout their studies. 

Not eligible for CAJG


This program is not eligible for the Canada Alberta Job Grant

Related careers


Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education.

Potential careers (NOC):

  • Producers, directors, choreographers and related occupations (51120)
  • Film and video camera operators (52110)
  • Audio and video recording technicians (52113)
  • Other technical and coordinating occupations in motion pictures, broadcasting and the performing arts (52119)
  • Motion pictures, broadcasting, photography and performing arts assistants and operators (53111)
  • Managers - publishing, motion pictures, broadcasting and performing arts (50011)

Admission requirements - Applicants educated in Canada


Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and completion of the following courses or equivalents:

  • at least 60% in English Language Arts 30-1 or English Language Arts 30-2.

SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside Alberta.

Admission requirements - Applicants educated outside of Canada


All applicants who were educated outside of Canada must demonstrate English language proficiency and provide proof they meet the program admission requirements with an international document assessment. Find accepted educational documents and assessment options

SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions.

Program outline


The Film and Video Production course diploma 60 credits (21 courses) to complete.

The program spans two years, with two semesters each year.

Optional courses


Suggested schedule of study


Progression


You must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better each semester and pass the prerequisite courses to progress through the program.

To qualify for graduation, you must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.

Review our grading and progression procedure > 

Books and supplies


There are no required textbooks in this program.

This is a bring-your-own-device program with a custom computer hardware and software requirement. Your computer can be a Windows or Mac machine, but it must meet the following minimum specifications.

Windows computer

  • Processor: Intel 7th Gen or newer CPU with Quick Sync - or AMD Ryzen™ 3000 Series/Threadripper2000 series or newer CPU
  • Operating system: Microsoft Windows 10 (64-bit) version V20H2 or later
  • Memory: Dual channel memory: 16 GB of RAM or HD media
  • GPU: 4GB of GPU memory for HD and some 4K media. For a list of supported graphic cards and drivers, see Adobe specs.
  • Storage: Fast internal SSD for app installation and cache 512GB or greater. Additional high-speed external drive for media - 1TB minimum
  • Display: 1920 x 1080 or greater
  • Sound card: ASIO compatible or Microsoft Windows Driver Model

Mac computer

  • Processor: Intel® 7thGen or newer CPU or Apple silicon M1 or newer
  • Operating system: macOS 11.0 (Big Sur) or later
  • Memory: Apple silicon 16 GB of unified memory or Intel 16 GB of RAM
  • GPU: Apple silicon 16 GB of unified memory or Intel 4 GB of GPU Memory for HD and some 4K workflows
  • Storage: Fast internal SSD for app installation and cache 512GB or greater. Additional high-speed external drive for media - 1TB minimum
  • Display: 1920 x 1080 or greater
  • Sound card: Default Mac OS Apple sound drivers

You must also purchase the following software:

Advanced Digital Technology program advising


For any questions or to set up an advising appointment, please contact our School for Advanced Digital Technology.

Phone: 403.284.8543
Email: sadt.advising@sait.ca 

Program outcomes


  1. Demonstrate communication and interpersonal skills.
  2. Demonstrate proficient employability skills.
  3. Demonstrate entrepreneurial and management skills.
  4. Demonstrate proficient computer skills.
  5. Use story development techniques, concepts, and tools effectively.
  6. Apply elements of graphic design effectively.
  7. Apply principles of art direction.
  8. Apply principles of cinematography.
  9. Apply production management principles.
  10. Perform producing tasks.
  11. Perform post-production tasks.
  12. Perform film and video sound tasks.
  13. Critique process and product.
  14. Demonstrate film appreciation and theory.
  15. Work safely.

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