Media Entertainment Arts — College of the Canyons
From script to screen — Canyons Media trains the next generation of filmmakers in cinematography, directing, producing, and post-production with industry-standard equipment and hands-on production experience.
Our filmmaking courses span three core disciplines — all taught with professional-grade cameras, lighting rigs, and editing suites on campus.
Master the visual language of film. Students work with HD and UHD camera systems, applying cinematic lighting techniques for both studio and location shoots — building an eye for composition and exposure.
Lead a production from concept to delivery. Students direct cast and crew through pre-production, principal photography, and post — developing their personal voice as a writer-director.
Every great film starts with a great script. Students craft industry-standard screenplays and short scripts, then learn non-linear editing and post-production workflows to bring their stories to life.
About the Program
Media Entertainment Arts seeks to create, improve, expand and strengthen relevant and rigorous programs of study in cooperation with local high schools, Career and College Readiness, and community and regional business and industry partners.
By developing sequentially modeled curricula and practicum for media, entertainment, and design, MEA links current industry skills and Career & Technical Education standards to all aspects of study.
Program Learning Outcome
Demonstrate proficiency in the core skills and knowledge required for employment in the filmmaking industry.
A suggested term-by-term sequence for completing the Filmmaking AA in two years (60–68 total units including General Education).
** Total units required for the AA degree are 60–68 including General Education. View the full plan on ProgramMapper →
Earn an Associate in Arts in Filmmaking — or build toward transfer to a four-year film school with our production-focused curriculum.
Associate in Arts Degree
A hands-on, production-focused degree that takes students from the fundamentals of visual storytelling through advanced directing and producing. Graduates leave with a professional portfolio and the skills to pursue careers in film, television, and digital media — or to continue at a four-year film program.
View in College CatalogRequired Courses 29 credits
Core (required)
Plus at least 2 units from:
Plus 15 units from:
OR
Capstone (required)
Plus a minimum of 3 units from the following not already taken above:
Certificate of Specialization
A focused credential for students who want to write professionally for film, television, and digital media. Covers aesthetics, script structure, and advanced professional screenwriting techniques.
View in College CatalogAll Required Courses 9 credits
Core (required)
Whether you want to direct, shoot, write, or produce — there’s a place for you at Canyons Media.
Get on set, build your reel, and start shooting real productions with our student filmmaking program. Open to all COC students.
Join NowApply to College of the Canyons and enroll in MEA filmmaking courses. Financial aid and fee waivers are available.
Visit canyons.eduHave questions about which courses to take first? MEA faculty advisors can help you map your path from day one to graduation.
Contact MEAMEA courses are open to all College of the Canyons students. No prior experience required for most courses — just show up ready to create.
Focused on news? Learn how to earn your AA-T, AA in New Media Journalism, or the News Reporting & Anchoring certificate.
Explore JournalismApply to College of the Canyons and register for MEA courses. Financial aid and enrollment fee waivers are available.
Visit canyons.eduNot sure which courses to take first? MEA faculty advisors can help you map a schedule that fits your goals.
Contact MEA