The Business of TV and Film: An Insider's Look
The TV and film industries have created a blended mix of businesses that have become a *$717 billion juggernaut, drawing in viewers around the globe. Today, all you need is a phone, tablet, computer, or TV to access a broad swath of content. In this program, you’ll hear from guest speakers who are industry experts and veterans of TV and film, and review the vast array of career options — both in front of the camera and behind. Learn various elements of developing a filmed entertainment project, including marketing, distribution, financing, and production. Try your hand at creating a concept to see what it takes to make it come to life. If you yearn to be part of this dynamic industry or are looking to grow your career, here’s your chance to see what aspect of the business is calling your name.
*Source: Zippia
Program Dates
Choose the program length that works for you: 2-week sessions and 4-week sessions
Eligibility
For anyone interested in learning about business
Fees
$1495
An inside look at the inner workings of TV and films
An introduction to the main components of television.
Learn the various sectors that make up the TV and film industries. With a focus on television, begin to understand the components of modern programming — the stories, types of media, platforms (i.e., Netflix and Hulu), how they’re funded, and how they make money.
What is intellectual property and how to own the rights to it.
Intellectual property can be a story or an idea for a series. Begin to understand what makes an idea sellable, and learn the processes by which projects are evaluated — what makes them attractive to those in the business and their long term potential.
How to pitch your project to potential buyers.
Potential buyers include streaming platforms, studios, and networks. A tailored pitch to these key players is essential to sell your project. Learn how to craft a pitch and review sample pitches — the good, the bad, and the ugly. Determine who will review your pitch and how to best reach them.
Budgeting and how to monetize your project.
Learn the process of monetizing and maximizing an IP (intellectual property) through trademarking and registering. Provide an overview of budgeting and scheduling. Identify potential sources of finance and opportunities.
How industry insiders bring your concept to life.
Explore a TV program’s life cycle, from budget and timeline to production and editing. Explore how each stakeholder’s vision and business decisions culminate in production, and how they can change along the way. Gain insight into how the storyline evolves.
Explore degrees and careers related to the field of TV and film.
Topics covered in this program provide a valuable background to anyone who has a passion for the TV and film business — everything from script writing and financial planning to marketing, distribution, and production.
How You Will Benefit
- Identify various sectors of the TV and film business, and understand how they operate and work together with specific attention to television.
- Hear from renowned guest speakers who are veterans of TV and film, such as producers, screen writers, and financial managers.
- Describe the process by which television programs and films are made, from the initial pitch through distribution.
- Demonstrate familiarity with the various elements of developing a filmed project, including budgeting, marketing, distribution, and production.
- Describe both how and where to look for opportunities in the industry and the skills and backgrounds required.
- Enjoy flexible learning: online lessons are delivered by dynamic videos so you can tune in whenever your schedule allows
- Earn a certificate of participation from Columbia Business School
Three Learning Advantages Designed For You
Final Project
- Act as an agent and create a pitch to deliver to potential content buyers.
- Identify a project’s potential for commercial success and how it aligns with a buyer’s business strategy.
- Develop a presentation in which you deliver the pitch and explain the project’s potential for success.
Mentoring
- Access to a mentor who provides support and answers questions to deepen your learning
- Encouragement and direction on all assignments
- Inspiration and motivation to help you succeed
- Brainstorming and ideation help as you prepare for your final project
Flexible Learning
- 100 percent online; works with your schedule
- 20 to 25 hours of instruction and program work, including engaging multimedia, simulations, and curated assignments for which you will receive guidance and support
- Access to a mentor who will who will guide your progress and help brainstorm ideas
Apply Now For the Next Available Program
All program options have the same educational content, learning materials, and number of assignments. We are offering a condensed version of the program in order to accommodate students’ individual schedules.
Faculty
Robert Friedman, Bungalow Media + Entertainment
Bungalow founder CEO Robert Friedman is a 30-year entertainment veteran. He has held an array of senior executive positions, including President of AOL; Co-Chairman of New Line Cinema in charge of worldwide Theatrical Marketing and Licensing and President of New Line Television, which he launched for the company. New Line Cinema content includes Lord of the Rings, Austin Powers, Rush Hour and Dumb & Dumber; plus a wide array of television and documentary projects. Friedman was also an original member of the startup team at MTV.
Friedman's industry honors include being named "Media Man of the Year" by ADWEEK, named one of the top 100 marketers in the country by AdAge, and most recently he became an inductee into the Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame where he was also distinguished with the Chairman’s Award.
How To Apply
It’s easy. No transcripts or letters of recommendation are required. Our application asks you to provide the following:
- Your basic contact information
- Why you wish to take this program, and a bit of your story, through writing, video, photos — any media you prefer.
Begin the guided process. It should take only a few minutes to answer the questions.
Begin the process.
Want To Know More?
Sign up for more information and we’ll be in touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will you be graded? What are assignments like? How much time do you have to turn around a project? When do you find out if you're admitted?
Answers To Your Questions HereScholarships
We offer need-based scholarships in each cohort to students exhibiting high potential and an inability to pay full tuition. If you would like to be considered for a scholarship but you:
- Haven't applied to the program, complete your application now. The scholarship application is included.
- Applied to the program and didn't fill out a scholarship request, reach out to us at support@kup.gsb.columbia.edu for assistance.
- Are unsure about whether or not you applied for a scholarship, reach out to us at support@kup.gsb.columbia.edu for assistance.
The University reserves the right to modify the program as may become necessary.