Documentary & Non-Fiction Media Production (DNM)

Program overview

The Documentary & Non-Fiction Media Production (DNM) program at Seneca is a one-year graduate certificate designed for aspiring filmmakers. Students will learn from a team of award-winning filmmakers and industry professionals, engaging in rigorous, hands-on training in documentary filmmaking. The program emphasizes three key pillars: creative, technical, and industry skills. Participants will gain comprehensive knowledge in all aspects of documentary production, from story ideation to pitching, shooting, editing, and distribution. Graduates will emerge equipped to tackle various roles in the filmmaking process, including director, producer, cinematographer, and editor, culminating in the creation of their first documentary film.

Program structure

The Documentary & Non-Fiction Media Production program is structured to provide an immersive learning experience over a duration of 2 semesters (8 months). The program is delivered in-person, requiring students to attend classes on campus. Key features of the program structure include:

• Full-time study option
• Hands-on training in documentary filmmaking
• Focus on creative, technical, and industry skills
• Engagement in all phases of documentary production: pre-production, production, and post-production

This comprehensive approach ensures that students are well-prepared for the demands of the documentary industry upon graduation.

Featured Experiences

The Documentary & Non-Fiction Media Production program offers several unique experiences that enhance learning and skill development:

• Hands-on training with award-winning filmmakers and industry professionals
• Opportunities to work on real documentary projects
• Engagement in all aspects of production, from research to editing
• Collaboration with peers to foster teamwork and creativity
• Access to industry-standard tools and resources

These experiences are designed to prepare students for successful careers in the documentary field and beyond.

Career Options

Graduates of the Documentary & Non-Fiction Media Production program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

• Independent Filmmaker: Create and produce original documentary films, exploring personal or societal themes.
• Content Provider: Develop and supply engaging content for various media platforms, including online streaming services.
• Impact Producer: Work with organizations to create documentaries that drive social change and raise awareness on critical issues.
• Production Company Founder: Establish a production company to produce documentaries and collaborate with other filmmakers.
• NGO or Non-Profit Collaborator: Partner with non-profit organizations to tell impactful stories through documentary filmmaking.

These roles highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to make significant contributions to the documentary industry and society at large.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.