Career Center

Film & Entertainment

Explore This Section

Working in the film and entertainment industry allows individuals to immerse themselves in the world of creativity and storytelling. Filmmakers, actors, directors, writers, and technicians collaborate to bring captivating narratives to life. From the excitement of pre-production, where ideas are crafted and scripts take shape, to the energy on set during filming, every moment is filled with passion and dedication. 

Spend time thinking about what drew you to the industry. Was it the lure of appearing on the big screen? The love of outfits and costumes in the movies and on TV? The desire to build sets, play with makeup, or run a soundboard? Whatever it was that led you to this point, it's important to delve more into your interests and figure out how to pursue this career path.

Networking tends to play a major role in securing a job in Film & Entertainment. The goal of networking is to acquire knowledge about potential career fields and build genuine relationships with professionals and experts to increase the likelihood of securing an opportunity for which you are well suited. You've got a leg up on the competition if you already know someone who works for a company you're interested in or a person who has the career you aspire to.

EXPLORE CAREERS

Working as an actor in the film industry involves immersing oneself in the art of storytelling through captivating performances on screen. It requires honing acting skills, auditioning for roles, and collaborating with directors and fellow actors. From embodying diverse characters to navigating a competitive environment, actors strive to evoke emotions and entertain. Dedication, adaptability, and passion are essential in this profession. Sample roles include: main cast members, background cast members, body doubles, stunt coordinators, casting director, and talent agent.

Production teams are responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing various aspects of filmmaking. From budgeting and scheduling to scouting locations, securing permits, and assembling the crew, they ensure a smooth and efficient production process. The department plays a central role in overseeing logistics, managing resources, and problem-solving on set, ensuring that the director's vision is realized within budget and on schedule. Sample roles include: directors, producers, location manager, production designer, and screenwriter.

The camera department is responsible for operating the camera, selecting lenses, and framing shots as per the director's vision. They work closely with other key players to achieve the desired aesthetics and mood. Additionally, camera department members manage equipment, ensure proper lighting, and maintain camera stability during shoots. Their technical expertise, creativity, and attention to detail contribute to crafting compelling and visually stunning scenes. Sample roles include: cinematographers, camera operators, videographers, film editors, and director of photography.

The sound and music department is responsible for capturing, creating, and integrating soundscapes and music that enhance storytelling and emotional impact. Sound designers and editors meticulously craft audio effects and dialogue, ensuring clarity and immersion. Composers compose original music that complements the narrative and evokes emotions, elevating the film's atmosphere. Collaboration with directors and other departments is essential to synchronize sound with visuals seamlessly. Sample roles include: sound mixers, sound designers, foley artists, composers, editors, and musicians.

The lighting department works closely with other departments and key players to create the desired mood, atmosphere, and focus for each scene. They set up and position lights, control intensity and color temperature, and utilize various techniques to achieve the director's vision. Skillful manipulation of light highlights characters and objects, adds depth to the frame, and sets the tone for the story. This collaborative work requires precision, creativity, and adaptability. Sample roles include: gaffer, key grip, best boy/second electric, best boy grip, and rigger.

Working in makeup, costume, and props in the film industry brings characters and worlds to life. Makeup artists skillfully transform actors into their roles, using prosthetics, special effects, and cosmetics to achieve various looks and appearances. Costume designers meticulously craft outfits that reflect characters' personalities, historical settings, or futuristic realms, enhancing storytelling through clothing choices. Prop masters select, create, and manage the objects actors interact with, adding realism and depth to scenes. Sample roles include: makeup artist, hairstylist, costume designer, wardrobe stylist, and prop master.

The art department works with everything on set, except for the actors. Members of the art department collaborate to design and construct sets, locations, and props, creating the film's overall look and feel. They work closely with the director to translate the script's vision into tangible and visually stunning elements. From historical periods to futuristic worlds, the art department brings imagination to life, meticulously detailing every aspect to enhance storytelling. Sample roles include: art director, construction coordinator, storyboard artist, effects technicians, food stylist, and set designer.

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FIND OPPORTUNITIES

To begin exploring jobs and careers within film and entertainment, search the following job boards and companies. Please note this is not an exhaustive list, but designed to be a starting place.

Job Boards:

Talent Agencies:

Organizations & Companies:


DEVELOP YOUR INTEREST

There are many options to get involved at »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵand develop your career competencies. Get involved to deepen your understanding of an industry and help you decide if a job in this field is of interest to you. Planning your experience can feel daunting, so check out some industry specific ideas both on and off campus below. As you plan, meet with the Advising Hub to discuss your major and academic interests to ensure you’re on track for your academic plans as well.

  • »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵProductions, SoCC Sounds of Colorado College, Teensy Weensy Improv Group, Llamapalooza Music & Arts Festival
  • Apply for a Documentary Exploration Grant through the Film and Media Studies department.
  • Llamapalooza Co-Head, Social Media or Video Intern for CC Communications, Esports Broadcasting Manager, Animation Video-Maker, Media and Marketing Intern, Athletics Videographer Assistant or Video Content Creator.

  • Consider a major in Film & Media Studies or a minor in Performance Design. Take classes that enhance your creativity broadly: dance, creative writing, art, and cultural areas for engagement to name a few. Courses taught by CC alumni or industry experts will give you further insight into industry.
  • Graduate school can be a good next step, however not always necessary. It is important to have experiences to help narrow down your area of interest. If you are interested in graduate school, ensure to start preparation early, such as identifying programs of interest, knowing admission requirements, and talking to faculty and the Career Center about your interests.
    • Search for graduate school programs through databases such as
    • Some common graduate programs for the film & entertainment industry are: advanced degrees in Arts Management, Film and Media Arts, and Film and Video Production.

  • It is important to creatively highlight your skills and accomplishments, and many jobs will likely require a portfolio. Check out these platforms to create a digital portfolio: , , , , ,
  • offers online classes surrounding a variety of topics taught about industry professionals and experts.
  • Watch this workshop about filmmaking and editing on a Smartphone!
  • The Visual Resource Center on campus has equipment available to check out and offers workshops on topics such as Photoshop and Illustrator.
  • Educate yourself on the Film and Entertainment industry outside of the classroom! Explore sites like and . 
  • Check out some podcasts to learn about the industry and stay up to date! Try out , , , , and
  • Consider volunteering at a film event or festival. Some examples include , , and .
  • Check out courses on LinkedIn Learning. Everybody with a Pikes Peak Library card has access to courses for free. Just a couple examples of courses you could take range from video editing software such as After Effects and Final Cut Pro, to script writing, to 3D animation.
  • Connect with alumni! Alumni can be a great resource to learn more about the industry. You can find alumni through LinkedIn or TigerLink, CC’s networking platform. 
  • Be on the lookout for contests, competitions, and other opportunities to have your work showcased.

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CURIOUS TO LEARN MORE

  • Associations: , , , , , , ,
  • Look for ways to get involved locally through organizations like the and the Attend local events at the
  • Read career guides, specifically the Guide to Media and Entertainment Careers, on These guides provide valuable insight into the industry, helpful resources, and detailed information about specific careers.
Resume Tips
Interview Insights
Connect with Alumni
Industry Recruiting Timelines
Cover Letters

Contact the Career Center

CareerCenter@ColoradoCollege.edu
719.389.6893
Morreale House @ 1130 N. Cascade Avenue
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
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