Black Film Colleges

Few Historically Black Colleges or Universities (HBCU) offer a degree in film, per se. However, many offer degrees in programs like Communications, an area of study where a student gains credentialing in skills useful for television, film or radio. Such degrees offer an opportunity for students to gain a background for a future in film.

Alabama A&M University

Alabama A&M University offers an undergraduate degree in Telecommunications. The degree, aimed at preparing students for work in film, television or radio, allows each student to concentrate in one of three areas: performance, production or operations. Courses include Broadcast Law & Regulations, Film Production I & II, Writing for Broadcasting, Voice and Diction, Acting for TV & Film and Advanced TV Production.

Howard University

Howard University’s Department of Radio, Television and Film offers a Film Production major for potential students interested in becoming filmmakers. Concentrated wholly on the art of television and film, courses include Basic Television and Film Production, Cinematography, Film Directing, Third World Cinema, Documentary Film Critique, Blacks in Film and Film Practicum. The department also offers degrees in Audio Production, Television Production and Telecommunications Management.

North Carolina Central University

North Carolina Central University’s major in Mass Communications with a concentration in Broadcast Media prepares students for careers in television or radio production, however the foundational curriculum is useful for a student with aspirations in film production. A few of the courses available include Writing for Radio & Television, Audio Production, Intro to Film Criticism, Video Production and a Media Practicum.

Shaw University

Shaw University’s offers students the opportunity to learn the particulars of production through a Mass Communications degree with emphasis in broadcast production. Though the curriculum is geared towards television or radio, the skills offered can be transferred to a career in film production. Courses at Shaw include Television Production I, II & III, Writing for Radio & Television, Seminar in Radio/TV, an Internship and chances for independent study.

Wilberforce University

Wilberforce University’s Mass Media major trains students for a future in television and radio, however, for the individual interested in film production, the curriculum is ideal. The program of study includes Voice and Diction, Audio Production Techniques, Introduction to TV Production and the opportunity for supervised individual study. For students interested in documentary film, electives in journalism are an option.