Communication

Craft the Stories for the Next Generation with a Degree in Communication and a Concentration in Film & Visual Storytelling

The BA in Communication with a Concentration in Film & Visual Storytelling seeks to develop each student into a confident filmmaker and storyteller for a Spirit-empowered, Christ-centered life of creativity and practice.

The Film & Visual Storytelling concentration focuses on independent filmmaking and the art of storytelling. You will learn the process of filmmaking and critical technical skills that will enable you to work in a variety of roles in the entertainment industry and in new digital media fields.

You will work with a close-knit group of peers on hands-on film projects, gain professional experience through internships, and develop a Christ-centered approach to creativity and artistry.

Many Film & Visual Storytelling graduates go on to work not only in film and television production, but also in church media ministries, advertising agencies, Internet startups, wedding and event photography, and corporate video production.

Customized Hands-on Learning

The Film & Visual Storytelling concentration also emphasizes hands-on learning, supporting the development of practical craft skills through equipment labs and filmmaking practicum. Personalized one-on-one tutoring sessions are available for film equipment and software, as well as assistance navigating permitting, casting and film festival submission, through the department’s MediaHub.

Collaboration vs. Competition

Unlike other film programs, the Film & Visual Storytelling concentration encourages collaboration over competition. Students get to access equipment early in the program, and all students will have the opportunity to make their own short film and tell their own story during their four years—not just the select few.

Professional Practice

Professional practice is taught and modeled in the Film & Visual Storytelling concentration. You will learn while working on the sets of your advanced peers and participating in staff and faculty-led projects. You will also complete a professional off- campus internship that correlates with your career interests.

Degree Requirements
What To Expect

Degree Requirements

What To Expect

Year One

Your first year will familiarize you with Vanguard and the concept of a
liberal arts education. You will take a number of general education courses, including Cornerstone--your introduction to college life and Vanguard. You will also take several required courses in your major, which will give you an opportunity to get to know your professors and your classmates in the major. Key will be COMM 125: Intro to Filmmaking, a hybrid course that will introduce you to filmmaking and includes a hands-on equipment and safety lab component, so you can get approved to start checking out filmmaking gear. Community-building and foundational skills are the focus of year one.

Year Two

Your second year will immerse you more fully into your major, as you will begin taking more classes specific to your concentration. You will take COMM 229: Intermediate Filmmaking and COMM 306: Writing for Film and New Media and increase your technical proficiency and storytelling acumen. By the end of year two, you will be comfortable with all the essentials of filmmaking and have completed several short projects.

Year Three

Your third year will see more advanced coursework, including narrative and documentary filmmaking. Students will work together to complete a high- quality short narrative film, and documentary short subject. You should also complete your internship requirements your third year, so start thinking about networking and applying early!

Year Four

Your final year is often the best, as you will have established friendships,
built your crew, and gained practical work experience. You will complete your capstone courses, COMM 496 and 497. The fall semester, you will work with your faculty advisor to develop your senior project, completing all preproduction. The spring semester you will produce and screen your senior project. You will also have finished most of the required coursework for the major, so you will have the freedom to choose elective courses that spark your interest.

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