Creative Economy
VFS’s signature programs and facilities are at the heart of a creative economy worth $3.4 billion in B.C. alone. From film production and 3D animation to game, digital, and VR/AR design, VFS is helping shape the entertainment and media industries’ transformation. In 2020, VFS alumni were credited on 8 of the top 15 highest grossing films worldwide, in a global industry set to generate US$2.1 trillion in revenues in 2021.
Alumni Success
Vancouver Film School grads are some of the most successful and sought-after professionals in the entire Film and Television industry. You will find our alumni working all over the globe, pushing boundaries, discovering new frontiers, winning all kinds of awards and honours, and leading today’s creative economy.
A VFS Film Production Education
In 12 months you will graduate with:
- A diploma in Film Production
- A compilation of your work for your demo reel
- Access to the VFS Alumni Directory & Job Board
- Attain industry connections that will help guide your career
Film Production
Program Overview
Term 01
Explore the possibilities of storytelling, giving you both the narrative craft and visual techniques necessary to bring a story to life on the screen.
Term 02
Expand your range of filmmaking techniques while you learn to work on larger sets and co-create with outside writers.
Term 03
Combine cutting edge techniques, like visual effects, with the ingenuity to solve production challenges.
Term 04
Specialize in two of five key creative streams to build yourself into a multitalented professional.
Term 05
Dedicate your time and energy to final projects, high-quality short films that will form the basis of your professional reel.
Term 06
Complete the filming of all final projects, and focus on employment preparation and advanced electives.
Specializations
Students explore the five key disciplines of filmmaking during their year VFS. As the year progresses, students choose to specialize in two of the following disciplines, giving their portfolio the kind of focus necessary to launch a career as a professional filmmaker.
Directing
Cinematography
Producing
Production Design
Post-Production
Admissions Info
To make sure you have accurate admissions information please select your region based on country of citizenship.
Tuition
Start Dates
Requirements
You will be asked to submit one of the following along with your application. Your advisor can help with selecting the best option.
Write a synopsis of a film project that you are passionate about making (no longer than one page). Provide the film genre and utilize references to other movies to explain how you would make the film. Explain the concept, vision or idea. In addition, provide a 1-page (maximum) outline of the story.
OPTIONAL
If you have made a film before, please submit a copy or a link to the film online (no more than two films). Ensure that you specify your involvement in the film, as well as any screenings or awards.
You'll find information on how to send your projects in the application form, or you can ask your Advisor.
When you talk to your Advisor, let them know that you've completed the Foundation program and they will put a copy of your diploma in your file for you.
OPTIONAL
You also have the option of submitting any previous films you've worked on. Please submit a copy or a link to the film online (no more than two films). Ensure that you specify your involvement in the film, as well as any screenings or awards.
Student Work
While training at VFS, students are immersed in the film and television industry, and spend a lot of hands-on time creating professional-quality work. And, nothing is a greater testament to the incomparable industry resources and career preparation that define VFS’s education model, than the top quality work our students produce. Here, a portfolio of outstanding work is just the beginning. Just take a look.
Film Production Alumnus Takes on Deadpool 2
As Art Director on productions like Lost in Space and Colossal, Roger Fires has had a dynamic journey in film. In this video, Roger shares how he went from making home videos with childhood friends in Brazil, to landing his dream job after completing the Film Production program at VFS.
Film Production Program FAQs
We're here to help you submit an application that best reflects your abilities, and gives you the best chance of being accepted. We've helped thousands of people complete a single year at VFS by answering questions like these:
Application Tips
- What does VFS look for in an application?
- Can I apply if I haven't met all the requirements yet?
- What does this part of the application form mean?
Expenses
- How much does my program cost?
- Can I pay in installments?
- How much will I need for living expenses in Vancouver?
Logistics
- How do I get to Vancouver?
- Where will I live in Vancouver?
- Do I need a visa?
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