Digital Video Intensive
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

What is the objective of the Digital Video Intensive?

Recognizing the growing demand for DV education, the DVI's primary objective is to teach individuals how to shoot, edit and render an entire DV project on their own. However, we recognize the many supporting skills connected to these, more obvious, ones. Those skills are taught as well.

Should I take classes to prepare myself for the Digital Video Intensive? Can I receive tuition reduction credit in doing so?

The Intensive program begins with the basics of creative, technical and business aspects of digital video production and post-production. There are neither emphasis tracks nor electives. Because of this, there are no preparatory courses other than the prerequisites. Nearly all of the DVI's courses were developed from scratch, reducing the likelihood of redundancy with the Multimedia Studies Program's general program.

What makes the Digital Video Intensive unique?

The DVI teaches a unique combination of skills not normally offered in a single program. Firstly, since digital video permeates several disciplines, the DVI converges instructors who work in multimedia, motion pictures, and television. Secondly, in our interviews with students and graduates of other programs, we were able to target areas that "don't get enough coverage." These include areas such as production management and related software and how to get project funding. DVI courses include topics that are, normally, learned only from professional experience.

Who can benefit from the Digital Video Intensive?

The DVI is designed to teach aspiring DV artists how to "do it all" as do independent filmmakers. However, professionals from the video, Web/multimedia and motion picture industries can also benefit from the program. Firstly, the DVI brings professionals who have worked for years, in more traditional industries (i.e., motion pictures), up-to-date on modern computer-based skills and DV technologies. Secondly, it offers a quick way for Internet professionals to add DV to their skill sets.

How well does the Digital Video Intensive prepare me for a career?

The DVI is designed to train aspring digital filmmakers how to "do it all." The emphasis of the program is in shooting, editing, directing and producing. Support topics include audio, practical visual effects, writing, and authoring for DVD and the Web. The film industry has never been easy to penetrate. The DVI is for individuals whose passions outweigh the challenges. For them we offer the experience of industry professionals to train you from the ground up.

What are the criteria for selection of the students for the Digital Video Intensive?

1. Not be overly experienced in the topics covered
2. Interested in learning ALL aspects of Digital Filmmaking (business, aesthetics, technical)
3. Able to do an intensive (rigorous, all time consuming): all day classes 4-6 days/week plus projects and assignments
4. Computer experience (preferably Mac)
5. Able to work collaboratively

If accepted, how do I apply for a student loan?

We encourage potential applicants to contact PLATO (1.800.GO.PLATO / www.plato.org) to confirm eligibility prior to applying for a student loan.

What are the requirements for international students?

We welcome students from all over the globe.

International students must contact the Office of International Programs at oip@sfsu.edu or 415.338.1293 for official regulations or visit the Office of International Programs.

For more information about the Digital Video Intensive, please see their website at http://msp.sfsu.edu/dvi/.