Undergraduate Picture Editing & Sound Design

The role of the film editor is crucial, as they have the final rewrite, the last say. If you want to learn not only the mechanics behind movie editing, but also the “why” behind it, UNCSA’s Picture Editing and Sound Design program is your chance to become a savvy, professional motion picture editor and/or sound designer.

Bachelor of Fine Arts

First Year
In order to develop a keen understanding of filmmaking as a whole, first-year students will be expected to take courses on the fundamentals of production design, screenwriting, directing, producing, cinematography, editing and sound design, as well as electives in the arts and liberal arts classes. As part of your degree, you will take liberal arts courses. You will only be accepted into the undergraduate Editing and Sound Design program at the end of your second year, so these fundamental courses serve as a way for the faculty to gauge your abilities.

Second Year
In your second year, you will have more choice in the kinds of courses you take, helping you narrow your interests. In addition to courses on world cinema and interdisciplinary storytelling, you will choose a first and second choice department. So, in addition to editing and sound design you will also select one workshop from screenwriting, directing, cinematography, or producing. After a portfolio review, at the end of the Spring semester, you can gain acceptance into the Editing and Sound Design degree program.

Third Year
Your third-year intermediate editing and sound design courses will help you become proficient in AVID and Pro Tools through project-based training.. This year you will begin one-on-one work with a faculty mentor, refining your editing skills and applying them to your third-year film projects. You will take courses on cinema studies, special topics, film electives, and liberal arts electives your third and fourth years.

Fourth Year
The philosophical side of picture editing and sound design is emphasized in the fourth year, as are the most advanced techniques in the field. You will learn how editors can manipulate, contribute to, enhance and shape the narrative and dramatic elements, while perfecting these techniques with the Avid editing system and learning the duties of an Assistant Editor. You will apply the same philosophical and technical skills to sound design. In your Advanced Editing Practicum course, you will continue working with your faculty mentor to finalize your fourth-year film projects.

Careers

Our Editing and Sound Design graduates have become Editors and Sound Designers/Editors for major motion pictures, television series, and computer entertainment/games.