what course should i take to become a film editor

by Dr. Ryder Klocko DVM 4 min read

Most editor positions require a bachelor's degree in a field related to film or broadcasting, such as communications. Many colleges offer courses in cinematography or video-editing software. Coursework involves a mix of film theory with practical training. Editors may complete a brief period of on-the-job training.

What are the educational requirements for a video editor?

  • Important Facts About This Occupation
  • Formal Education. Most video editors get their start after formal training at colleges and universities. ...
  • Training. Video editors begin work as apprentices or assistant editors. ...
  • Certification and Continued Education. ...

What education and training is needed to become a video editor?

Most video editors get their start after formal training at colleges and universities. A bachelor's degree related to video editing provides prospective editors with a well-rounded education in videography, the technical aspects of editing, camera operation, and artistry.

How does one get a job as a film editor?

  • Pitch potential film projects to investors
  • Create pitch decks
  • Weigh in on film casting, locations, and production/costume design
  • Consult and run production meetings with department heads
  • Help plan the shooting schedule
  • Work with Actors to get their best performances
  • Make sure the footage is working
  • Call “action” and “cut” on various scenes

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What are the educational requirements for movie directors?

Film directors wear many hats, and they must have both technical and artistic skills. They usually have a bachelor's degree in a field related to film, as well as significant work experience. Read on to learn more about the educational requirements for these professionals and the degree programs that are available.

How can I become a film editor?

How to become a film editor in 7 stepsAnalyze films. Before you pursue creating your own film editing work, you should note the style of other professionals. ... Get a film editing degree. ... Start networking. ... Consider a film internship or apprenticeship. ... Practice video-editing skills. ... Build your portfolio. ... Begin your job search.

How many years of training do you need to be a film editor?

According to the Princeton Review, many film editors complete 4-10 years of experiential training before becoming self-sufficient (www.princetonreview.com). Serving as an assistant film editor, production assistant or apprentice can help you gain valuable connections and experience in the field.

What course should I take if im good at editing?

Journalism. A bachelor's degree in journalism provides a solid education for anyone wishing to work as an editor. Journalism programs require students to learn graphic design, story writing and copyediting. Students also take courses in media ethics and media law.

WHAT A levels do you need to be a film editor?

You'll usually need:1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma.2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree.a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course.

What major is film editing?

Film editors typically earn a Bachelor of Arts with a major in film and television, film studies or communications. Because film editors need to know how to work camera equipment, they may also major in cinematography.

Is film editing a good career?

In short, becoming a video editor is a great career. There are so many opportunities available and more innovative concepts are always on the horizon. The result is a career path that will support you for the foreseeable future.

What do movie editors study?

Most editor positions require a bachelor's degree in a field related to film or broadcasting, such as communications. Many colleges offer courses in cinematography or video-editing software. Coursework involves a mix of film theory with practical training. Editors may complete a brief period of on-the-job training.

Is there a degree for editing?

There are no specialist editing degrees, but many writing-heavy programs that can give you a good stepping stone to the profession. Most editors hold an undergraduate degree in a related subject such as English, Journalism, Communications, or even Law, if you hope to become a legal editor.

Who is the best film editor in the world?

Top Grossing Editor at the Worldwide Box OfficeBETARankNameMovies1Jeffrey Ford142Michael Kahn533Chris Lebenzon314Lee Smith1977 more rows

Is film editing hard?

Editing is a tough job and everyone wants to do it. The competition will be intense for a long time and the market growth isn't as good as that of most other career paths. It's not an easy field to get into, but a little perseverance will take you a long way.

Do film editors make good money?

Average Pay of Film Editor Jobs As of May 2019, film or video editors made an average annual wage of $87,300, or $41.97 an hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The best in the business were able to make as much as $168,320 or more, if they were in the top 10 percent.

Do I need to go to college to be a film editor?

That being said, while getting an education is definitely important, the short answer is no—you do not need a degree to become a film editor. In fact, while many colleges and trade schools have very good editing courses, you actually need more than a college program could give you in order to make it as a film editor.

Is it hard to become a film editor?

Editing is a tough job and everyone wants to do it. The competition will be intense for a long time and the market growth isn't as good as that of most other career paths. It's not an easy field to get into, but a little perseverance will take you a long way.

How long does it take to become a good editor?

There are no certification or licensure requirements to work as an editor. How long does it take to become an editor? It takes most people around four years to earn a bachelor's degree. Those who pursue graduate publishing or editing degrees or certificates will take another year or two to complete their education.

Do I need to go to college to be a film editor?

That being said, while getting an education is definitely important, the short answer is no—you do not need a degree to become a film editor. In fact, while many colleges and trade schools have very good editing courses, you actually need more than a college program could give you in order to make it as a film editor.

How long does it take to learn film production?

1-5 years of industry experience is common and internships are available. Key Skills include skills in critical thinking, writing, decision-making, time-management, monitoring and active listening.

How to become an editor in a film?

One of the best ways to begin your career path towards editing is to enroll in a film school, university, or community college that offer degree programs in film production.

What is the coursework required for a film school?

A film school’s coursework will also generally include training in other aspects of film production and the post-production process, including visual effects, cinematography, screenwriting, and general film theory, all of which are essential in giving film and video editors a well-rounded understanding of visual storytelling.

What is a film editor?

A film editor is the person that makes a film or television show come to life. Editors are as responsible for shaping the story, tone, and ultimate impact of a film as the director or screenwriter. For that reason, skilled editors are highly sought after in the film industry.

Is video editing more affordable?

With the rise of digital media and consumer video editing software, however, the editing process is easier and more affordable than ever. If you aren’t finding video editor jobs, produce and edit your own work. Offer to edit your friends’ work.

What is a film editor?

A film editor takes various shots of video footage and edits them together to tell a story through film. They can also edit commercials, short films, television shows, advertisements or other video projects. While editing, they will often collaborate with or work alongside a director to ensure the director achieves their overall vision for ...

Why do film editors edit?

Film editors will edit and cut a film to tell a compelling and captivating story. Editing films takes a significant amount of practice to ensure that each scene is cut or edited well. In this article, we highlight ...

How to improve your video editing skills?

Practice your skills. Once you've started gaining experience and education, you should practice using them regularly. Practicing your film editing skills can help you advance your video editing knowledge and skill set. Challenge yourself to learn new film editing techniques by watching tutorial videos online.

How much does a video editor make an hour?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national average salary for film and video editors and camera operators is $28.76 per hour. For the most up-to-date information, please click on the salary link above.

How to make a resume for a job?

Build a resume and start your job search. 1. Analyze films to gain ideas of styles and techniques. Before you create your own work, you should note the style of other professionals' work. You can do this by viewing well-made and critically acclaimed films and analyzing their editing patterns and techniques.

What degree do I need to be a video editor?

Most Film and Video Editors positions require a bachelor’s degree in a field related to film or broadcasting. Many colleges offer courses in camera operation or video-editing software. Coursework involves a mix of film theory with practical training.

How long does it take to become a video editor?

You may need some previous work-related skill, knowledge or experience to be a Film and Video Editor. For example, an electrician must complete three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

How many years of college do I need to become a movie editor?

These degrees range in time from a year to two years. Some of these degrees result in a certificate, while others result in a two years associate degree in arts. A bachelor’s degree is the preferred educational route for those wanting to be a film or movie editor.

What should I know about becoming a film and video editor?

Students wanting a career as a film and video editor should have great organizational skills, be able to work on a tight deadline, and be creative. There are several paths to enter the field. Students who are interested in a career in the industry can prepare for their professional adult career by attending an art high school ...

Do I need a certificate to be a video editor?

Some gain this experience and training as a journeyman, some through a technical degree, while others get a four-year degree. Film and video editors are not required to have a certificate or state license. Schools range from technical schools to film schools to traditional colleges and universities. Degrees often run the gamut from technical ...

How do I become a film editor?

To become a film editor, start by checking out books from the library about film history and analysis to familiarize yourself with the nature of film. You should also try to watch all different kinds of movies, and pay close attention to the timing and pacing of scenes.

What is a film editor?

Film editors are responsible for cutting and assembling the video and audio footage for film and television productions into a comprehensive whole. Becoming a film editor involves a long path of study, hours of internship, apprenticeship, and volunteer work. Working for free early on is typically necessary in order to secure ...

What is the Hollywood standard for film editing?

In addition, you will learn how to use photo and film editing software programs like Adobe Premiere and Final Cut Pro (FCP). FCP is the Hollywood standard for film editing, and you'll need to take software-heavy courses that'll allow you to master it. Go for a course load heavy in technology and software training.

What are the perks of film school?

A key perk to film school is access to equipment. Renting equipment can be expensive, but it can be cheaper if you’re a student, especially if you rent through your university program. When you're researching programs, ask about their available equipment and rental procedures. ...

Do film editors cut film?

Film editors don't manually cut film anymore, so it's important to have a strong foundation in both established and emerging tech and programs. Even after you've graduated, it's common for editors to continue their education by occasionally taking formal courses.

What skills do video editors need?

Video editors need creativity and the ability to communicate effectively and work well on computers; they must also have a good eye for detail along with strong visual skills, coordination, and time management skills. Similar Occupations.

Is video editing a technical job?

Although video editing is a technical profession, there is no widely accepted certification, and certification is not required for employment in the industry. However, even once they have become part of the field, video editors should expect an ongoing educational experience. The rigorous time demands of the job leave little time for 'on-the-job' training for experienced video editors. They are likely to take formal courses outside the work environment to keep abreast of new developments in the industry.

Film and Video Editors

Film and Video Editors edit moving images on film, video, or other media. May work with a producer or director to organize images for final production. May edit or synchronize soundtracks with images.

Career Quiz

In this career quiz, there are 10 questions that will give you a pretty good perspective on whether the career of a Film and Video Editor is right for you.

Suitable Personality

People who are suitable for this job tends to like working with forms, designs and patterns. They often require self-expression and the work can be done without following a clear set of rules.

Typical Day

Film and Video Editors edit moving images on film, video, or other media. May edit or synchronize soundtracks with images..

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