Certificate in Film & Video Production

Make Impactful Films and Videos

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Program Details

  • Location: UW Seattle
  • Duration: 9 months
  • Times: Evenings, Days
  • Cost: $6,345

Next start date:

September 2025

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About this Program


The digital revolution transformed filmmaking, and now it's possible to produce independent movies and video projects without huge budgets, expensive cameras or large crews. This change means that many different organizations and companies today use film and video as part of their work. Whether the goal is to fulfill a personal artistic vision, market a product or advance a cause, the fundamental need to tell a story remains paramount, and film is a powerful means to do it.

In this three-course certificate program, you’ll receive direct, hands-on experience creating visual stories that are intelligent, emotional, compelling, succinct and informative. By making films, you'll learn and practice primary aspects of film production, including scripting, camera and lighting, sound, directing and editing. You’ll emerge with your own short film for your personal or professional portfolio.

 Related Article: Outstanding Teachers Help UWPCE Student Filmmakers Reach Iconic Big Screen

Designed For

Current and aspiring filmmakers and video production specialists. 

See Requirements

Video Overview

Maria Gargiulo, an instructor in the Certificate in Film and Video Production, gives you an in-depth look into the program and shares the relevance of storytelling to a variety of professions.

Duration: 03:20

What You’ll Learn

  • Visual storytelling techniques, script and story development strategies, and the principles of cinematography and lighting
  • Directorial skills such as camera placement, staging a scene, directing actors, documentary interviewing and casting
  • Editing techniques and elements such as montage and mise-en-scène (scene arrangement)
  • The fundamentals of audio recording, sound editing and final mix
  • Resource management and production leadership strategies for collaboration with the crew

Get Hands-On Experience

You'll write, shoot and edit your own film with guidance and instruction from professional filmmakers.

APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP

You may be eligible to apply for a UW Certificate Scholarship or Rotary Scholarship to cover most of the costs of this program. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need and the potential of the program to positively impact your career. For more information, see the Scholarships page.

APPLY FOR THE PLAYFISH SCHOLARSHIP

Playfish Media, a woman-owned company, strives to uplift lesser-heard voices in media production.

They offer annual scholarships to students enrolled in media-centered programs to create a more inclusive environment. The scholarship is dedicated to advancing students from traditionally underrepresented groups, including women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and others needing financial assistance to achieve their career goals. 

For more information and to apply for the scholarship, visit the Playfish Media Scholarship page.

Career Stats

Sample Employers

Allen Institute for Artificial Intelligence (Ai2), Amazon, Casual Films, Pacific Outdoor Living, Rick Steves' Europe, Seattle Asian American Film Festival

27%

Projected job growth for producers and directors in Washington state (2020–2030)

$74,700

Average salary for producers and directors in Washington state (2022)

OUR ENROLLMENT COACHES ARE HERE TO HELP

Connect with an enrollment coach to learn more about this offering. Or if you need help finding the right certificate, specialization or course for you, reach out to explore your options.

Program Overview

Complete the courses listed below to earn the certificate.

Learning Format

classroom

In-Person

Attend classes at one of our convenient locations in the Puget Sound region. You’ll engage face-to-face face with your classmates and instructors as part of a highly interactive curriculum. Learn More »

Program Sessions

In-Person

Closed Sessions

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