This class is subtitled "The Art of Producing" because virtually everything you learn in the class is relevant and helpful to whatever film-related career you are thinking of entering. In fact, some students take it who aren't even going into filmmaking because of what they get out of the class. 

The class examines the goals, strategies, and tactics necessary to produce films or new media. 

Students research issues, create stories, find characters, pitch ideas, develop proposals, write treatments, identify audiences, sell films, and work with nonprofits. You'll learn about ethics, citizen activism, and raising money. You'll learn what it takes to become a successful producer and hear first-hand about the ins and outs of the industry. Guest speakers come from organizations like Discovery and National Geographic. 

There are no prerequisites, except a passion to learn, make a difference and succeed. Open to juniors, seniors, and grad students and is offered every semester. 

Please email Professor Maggie Stogner to learn more about the class or if you would like to receive a copy of the syllabus. 

Would you like to get a PBS credit on your resume? Then consider taking a fascinating class called Environmental Filmmaking for Public TV. 

This class has a special relationship with a major PBS station, Maryland Public Television (MPT). The class produces a half-hour program which is broadcast on MPT at prime time. 

Graduate students in film and video and journalism are invited to register for COMM-568-001. Prerequisites may be waived with permission of the school or the instructor if you have professional or academic experience in production or broadcast journalism. Undergraduates who meet the prerequisites are also invited to register. 

If you have any questions about your qualifications for the class, please contact Professor Maggie Stogner.  

Classroom in the Wild is an elective course that takes place over Spring
break and during summer months. It is typically one week long and
provides a rich field experience with scientists, park rangers, and wildlife
and environmental specialists. Check with CEF director Maggie Burnette
Stogner, stogner@american.edu for more information.

This course offers students a robust opportunity to explore and use the rare archives of the National Geographic Society (NGS) to create new material intended for a wide and diverse audience. Students learn the art of compelling storytelling and scriptwriting, combined with visual and sound techniques to successfully bring history to the screen. Students produce exemplary 5- to 7-minute videos using historic footage, images, maps, and documents of early exploration, environmental research, science discovery, and expeditions around the globe. 

This course provides an experiential learning experience with different branches of the National Park Service (NPS). Students add to their portfolios by working with NPS staff to create designated short video projects on subjects including science history, wildlife, ecosystems, new discoveries, and more. Students combine skillsets that include research, producing, directing, camera and lighting, audio capture and sound design, editing, motion graphics, and writing narration. All production expenses are covered; students receive a stipend upon completion of the project. NPS may choose to make the videos available to the public on their website and in visitor centers.