8 answers
Maya
Student
Macon, Georgia
5
Questions
Updated
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Should I major in film and minor in accounting? Or should I just minor in film and major in accounting? I'm even thinking about doing double major.
I'm a rising senior, so I still have time to pick between this. My passion is for film, but I'm also interested in finance/accounting. I plan on going to GSU - which I heard has a pretty good film program.
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8 answers
Stephanie Hendricks
Writer & Film Editor
1
Answer
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Updated
Stephanie’s Answer
Hey there! Congratulations on your continued journey in education. I have a Bachelor of Science in Film and am currently working in the industry. I find it commendable of you to want to study these entities that ultimately go hand in hand simply because it takes currency to create films most of the time. It's rare to hear of a filmmaker with an accounting background. In my honest opinion, we need more of them, and that type of course should be required for film students worldwide.
I'd suggest the film major and accounting minor if you are more right-brained, but the opposite if you are more left-brained. Either way, you'd be ahead of the curve studying finance and film simultaneously and adept enough to assume a producer role if that interests you. You can always fall back on being a film accountant if being on set is not something you want to do long-term. At least, you'll still have your hands in it, so to speak. Budgeting is equally as important as the production process!!
Your pursuit allows you to practice balance. No matter their chosen field, creative people are often labeled as disheveled, while organization is incumbent among financiers and accountants. That reality, I think, would help keep you grounded. Best of luck to you in all your endeavors. You're on the right track already.
I'd suggest the film major and accounting minor if you are more right-brained, but the opposite if you are more left-brained. Either way, you'd be ahead of the curve studying finance and film simultaneously and adept enough to assume a producer role if that interests you. You can always fall back on being a film accountant if being on set is not something you want to do long-term. At least, you'll still have your hands in it, so to speak. Budgeting is equally as important as the production process!!
Your pursuit allows you to practice balance. No matter their chosen field, creative people are often labeled as disheveled, while organization is incumbent among financiers and accountants. That reality, I think, would help keep you grounded. Best of luck to you in all your endeavors. You're on the right track already.
thank you! I have to do more research on the left brain, right brain thing but i definitely do want to be a producer one day! even if its a small film - your words are definitely noted.
Maya
You're welcome! So long as you are making films, being kind, and loving the process, it doesn't matter how big or small the productions are. Remember, some of the greatest movies were independent projects without backing or fancy equipment. Being more left-brained means you're logical, analytical, and so on, while being more right-brained suggests you're the free-thinker, creative, etc. Go with the side you feel is most dominant. Listen to that small voice. See you in the industry!
Stephanie Hendricks
Michael Morgan
Manager
16
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Choosing between a major in film and a major in accounting really depends on your career goals and where you see yourself in the future. If your passion is for film but you also have an interest in finance, here are a few things to consider:
1. Job Market: Accounting generally offers more stable job opportunities and a clearer career path. If financial stability and job security are important to you, a major in accounting with a minor in film might be a smart choice.
2. Passion vs. Practicality: Since your passion is film, consider whether you can see yourself being satisfied with film as a side project or hobby. Majoring in film while minoring in accounting could allow you to pursue your passion full-time, but it might come with more financial risk.
3. Double Major: If you have the time and resources, a double major could be ideal. It will give you a strong foundation in both fields, providing flexibility in your career options. Just be prepared for a heavier workload.
4. GSU's Programs: Since GSU has a good film program, leveraging that opportunity could be beneficial if you decide to pursue film more seriously. However, make sure to also research their accounting program to ensure it meets your standards and career goals.
Ultimately, consider where you want to be in 5-10 years and choose the path that aligns best with your long-term goals and personal fulfillment. Good luck with your decision!
1. Job Market: Accounting generally offers more stable job opportunities and a clearer career path. If financial stability and job security are important to you, a major in accounting with a minor in film might be a smart choice.
2. Passion vs. Practicality: Since your passion is film, consider whether you can see yourself being satisfied with film as a side project or hobby. Majoring in film while minoring in accounting could allow you to pursue your passion full-time, but it might come with more financial risk.
3. Double Major: If you have the time and resources, a double major could be ideal. It will give you a strong foundation in both fields, providing flexibility in your career options. Just be prepared for a heavier workload.
4. GSU's Programs: Since GSU has a good film program, leveraging that opportunity could be beneficial if you decide to pursue film more seriously. However, make sure to also research their accounting program to ensure it meets your standards and career goals.
Ultimately, consider where you want to be in 5-10 years and choose the path that aligns best with your long-term goals and personal fulfillment. Good luck with your decision!
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Maya
Steve Jacobson
Creative Leader/Content Creator/Producer/Editor/Storyteller
52
Answers
Westlake Village, California
Updated
Steve’s Answer
You've received a lot of insightful suggestions to mull over. To add my two cents, your decision ultimately hinges on whether you aspire to be involved in the creative aspect of the film/TV industry, or the business side. As echoed by others, pursuing a double major may not be the best idea, as each of these disciplines is demanding in its own right.
Should you choose accounting, I recommend enrolling in production courses to gain a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of assembling a production. This way, as you learn to develop a functional operating budget, you'll have a clearer picture of everyone's roles and the manpower required to produce a movie or TV show.
On the other hand, if you opt for the creative path, you'll gain knowledge on how to operate within production costs and optimize a budget to suit your production needs.
Best of luck on your journey!
Should you choose accounting, I recommend enrolling in production courses to gain a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of assembling a production. This way, as you learn to develop a functional operating budget, you'll have a clearer picture of everyone's roles and the manpower required to produce a movie or TV show.
On the other hand, if you opt for the creative path, you'll gain knowledge on how to operate within production costs and optimize a budget to suit your production needs.
Best of luck on your journey!
Thank you for your time in this response! I am definitely more interested in the creative side of film, though I wouldn't mind learning the business side of it as well. I don't want to 'limit' my options - one of the reason the film industry interested me since my high school career is due to the ample amount of jobs it holds. Hair, clothes, makeup, CGI, writing etc. etc. - I don't like feeling spaced in a box and want the ability to have more than one skill. Basically, I want to see everything the film industry has to offer in all aspects.
Maya
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1921
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Maya !
You have chosen a fabulous career interest and I would be happy to give you additional advice !
Firstly, do not double major. I think that you'll do perfectly to major in Film and minor in accounting since your authentic passion is for film. But do not double major because it will be too much of a load and once you start film, you're going to want to dedicate your time to film, not numerous amounts of courses as a double major. You will be able to use the accounting skills for film, too, but you can do it without double majoring. You do not even have to minor. You can take random accounting courses in college or online. You can learn both film and accounting smoothly without double majoring.
The reason that I advise majoring in Film is because there is a huge amount to learn and actually, one never stops learning. This will be a structured and focused path for which you will need to understand everything there is to know, including the business end. You will see that once you are introduced to film in college, you are going to want to spend most of your time with your film student friends doing film and learning film. It is a captivating experience.
For your college of choice, do you mean Georgia State University or Georgia Southern University ? It is great that you are starting to explore colleges for film and you may want to consider visiting the college to learn more about the campus and the film department. Getting a first hand look at the campus and film department will be very helpful for you. You can go to You Tube also and search for the college channel and watch some videos of the campus as many colleges have these types of tour videos. Also consider that Atlanta is currently booming with film and television production, so you may live near one of the newer film hubs and may not even have to consider a long distance move. You live only 84 miles from Atlanta and that is to your advantage. You also have the advantage of being able to create and do film right where you are or any location.
Another reason that you should major in Film and not have to double major or minor in accounting as a Film Major is because you will most likely learn a film industry based business and accounting path that is geared to the film industry and would be specific and applicable to your future film career. You would be taking Production Accounting and the Screen Skills website has some online instruction. I left a few links for you below
for Production Accounting online courses and/or certification. But as I said before, in college or online you can always take the standard accounting too if you'd like.
You can also take any grant writing courses or budgeting which will help you when you begin doing independent films. Being a filmmaker does entail having many different skills so accounting, business, and especially fund raising and grant writing knowledge will be a great advantage to have. These will most likely be covered in Film school but can always be found online, too.
This is my advice based on how demanding of your time, but enjoyable, being a film major will be. Talk to some film students at the college you plan to attend and they will ascertain that studying film is very involved, and if it is your passion you will definitely spend most of your day concentrating on film. I hope that this is helpful and I wish you all the best moving forward with an awesome career !
PRODUCTION ACCOUNTING (FOR FILM AND TELEVISION) https://www.screenskills.com/bookings/introduction-to-production-accounting-online/
PRODUCTION ACCOUNTING CERTIFICATION COURSE https://pghfilm.org/entertainment-partners-free-production-accountant-courses/
PRODUCTION ACCOUNTING FOR FILM AND TELEVISION https://digital.ucas.com/coursedisplay/courses/523708d2-ea69-46ad-b4fe-6245df2711ce?academicYearId=2023
You have chosen a fabulous career interest and I would be happy to give you additional advice !
Firstly, do not double major. I think that you'll do perfectly to major in Film and minor in accounting since your authentic passion is for film. But do not double major because it will be too much of a load and once you start film, you're going to want to dedicate your time to film, not numerous amounts of courses as a double major. You will be able to use the accounting skills for film, too, but you can do it without double majoring. You do not even have to minor. You can take random accounting courses in college or online. You can learn both film and accounting smoothly without double majoring.
The reason that I advise majoring in Film is because there is a huge amount to learn and actually, one never stops learning. This will be a structured and focused path for which you will need to understand everything there is to know, including the business end. You will see that once you are introduced to film in college, you are going to want to spend most of your time with your film student friends doing film and learning film. It is a captivating experience.
For your college of choice, do you mean Georgia State University or Georgia Southern University ? It is great that you are starting to explore colleges for film and you may want to consider visiting the college to learn more about the campus and the film department. Getting a first hand look at the campus and film department will be very helpful for you. You can go to You Tube also and search for the college channel and watch some videos of the campus as many colleges have these types of tour videos. Also consider that Atlanta is currently booming with film and television production, so you may live near one of the newer film hubs and may not even have to consider a long distance move. You live only 84 miles from Atlanta and that is to your advantage. You also have the advantage of being able to create and do film right where you are or any location.
Another reason that you should major in Film and not have to double major or minor in accounting as a Film Major is because you will most likely learn a film industry based business and accounting path that is geared to the film industry and would be specific and applicable to your future film career. You would be taking Production Accounting and the Screen Skills website has some online instruction. I left a few links for you below
for Production Accounting online courses and/or certification. But as I said before, in college or online you can always take the standard accounting too if you'd like.
You can also take any grant writing courses or budgeting which will help you when you begin doing independent films. Being a filmmaker does entail having many different skills so accounting, business, and especially fund raising and grant writing knowledge will be a great advantage to have. These will most likely be covered in Film school but can always be found online, too.
This is my advice based on how demanding of your time, but enjoyable, being a film major will be. Talk to some film students at the college you plan to attend and they will ascertain that studying film is very involved, and if it is your passion you will definitely spend most of your day concentrating on film. I hope that this is helpful and I wish you all the best moving forward with an awesome career !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Thank you so much for the detailed explanation! I've been going back and forth between what to major and what to minor since my junior year. Also, I meant Georgia State University - I should have clarified but It passed my mind. I didn't know that film and accounting (or business to be more broad) tied into each other this much. It makes me feel a lot better as one of my worries is about the stability when it comes to film, but no job is 100% stable and I feel a lot better after reading what you have said. (Thank you for the links, by the way)
Maya
You are very welcome, Maya. It sounds as though you are headed in the right direction !
Michelle M.
Michael L. Mizrahi
locations department worker
8
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Michael L.’s Answer
Hello Maya,
In the end, the answer to your question lies within you. Trust your instincts and make sure your decisions are your own, not influenced by others. Remember, life is not solely about earning money, even though it's important. Whatever path you choose, bear in mind that you have the freedom to switch careers whenever you feel the need. It's worth noting that film production also includes an accounting department. They work closely with everyone from the production assistant to the executive producer.
When I was 32, I worked as a carpenter and attended film school in the evenings. I then moved to New York City and, to cut a long story short, I'm now a member of the Directors Guild of America and a Teamster. However, I sometimes ponder whether leaving my comfortable life in South Florida for the high-stress world of production was the right move.
Best of luck with your decision!
Majoring in film is one thing but what do you want to do in film? write direct produce cinematography... Get a job as a PA or intern on set. Get a taste of production. My friends think I have a cool and glamorouds job, but it's demanding and I have to make a lot of sacrifices to my personal life.
In the end, the answer to your question lies within you. Trust your instincts and make sure your decisions are your own, not influenced by others. Remember, life is not solely about earning money, even though it's important. Whatever path you choose, bear in mind that you have the freedom to switch careers whenever you feel the need. It's worth noting that film production also includes an accounting department. They work closely with everyone from the production assistant to the executive producer.
When I was 32, I worked as a carpenter and attended film school in the evenings. I then moved to New York City and, to cut a long story short, I'm now a member of the Directors Guild of America and a Teamster. However, I sometimes ponder whether leaving my comfortable life in South Florida for the high-stress world of production was the right move.
Best of luck with your decision!
Michael L. recommends the following next steps:
Thank you for your time! I feel like for all my life I have lived comfortably - I want to experience meeting different people and being able to overcome my anxiety of others. Knowing that film has an accounting department does put me at ease. I don't want to just learn one thing - which is what attracted me to this industry. It's really cool to get an answer from someone of your standing. Thank you again for your response.
Maya
Megan Powell
Auditor
2
Answers
Hartford, Connecticut
Updated
Megan’s Answer
Kudos on advancing further in your life's journey! If your heart beats for film, then absolutely pursue it! As someone who's spent a good deal of time in accounting, my advice might be a tad partial, but I strongly suggest considering accounting as a secondary major or even a minor. If the thought of launching your own business ever crosses your mind, an understanding of accounting can be invaluable. It'll equip you with the knowledge to handle your own tax filings, manage your income, and so on. Wishing you all the best for your future endeavors!
Thank you for your advice! I'm definitely wanting do accounting (or finance) as a minor to have a backup plan just in case my paths switch or something unexpected takes place!
Maya
John Ogren
Banker
6
Answers
Thornton, Colorado
Updated
John’s Answer
If you are 100% certain which field or profession you want to work, than I would choose that as your major. The minor is to help give you a more well rounded education but when you apply for jobs the hiring department will pay more attention to the major and might not even have a spot for the minor. Sounds like you are very determined to work in film, so I would use that as you major.
Thank you!
Maya
Guy David Gazit
Screenwriter/Animator/Filmmaker/Director
6
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Guy David’s Answer
This is a very good question. There are two important aspects to consider:
A. Complementing Your Passion:
If you are deeply passionate about film, pursuing a major in film studies can be incredibly fulfilling. However, it's important to recognize that the film industry is highly competitive. My personal experience might help you:
I majored in both cinematography and screenwriting, fully immersing myself in film. While my passion drove me, I later realized the industry's challenges. Talent and skill are crucial, but connections and timing often play significant roles in career success. Despite my diverse skills in filming, editing, writing, and animating, I still face struggles as a freelance cinematographer.
B. Ensuring a Safety Net:
Considering a more stable career path alongside your passion can be wise. Accounting is a field with steady demand, providing financial security. If you major in accounting and minor in film, you could secure a stable job while still pursuing your passion on the side. Combining both could also open unique opportunities:
Accounting in the Film Industry: You could work as an accountant within film studios or production companies, allowing you to stay connected to the industry you love.
Business and Film Combined Degree: A degree that combines film and business could make you highly valuable, as the film industry always needs professionals who understand both the creative and financial aspects.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your career goals and risk tolerance. If financial stability is a priority, majoring in accounting with a minor in film could be a practical choice. However, if you’re committed to pursuing a career in film, consider ways to integrate your practical skills into the industry.
Best of luck to you!
A. Complementing Your Passion:
If you are deeply passionate about film, pursuing a major in film studies can be incredibly fulfilling. However, it's important to recognize that the film industry is highly competitive. My personal experience might help you:
I majored in both cinematography and screenwriting, fully immersing myself in film. While my passion drove me, I later realized the industry's challenges. Talent and skill are crucial, but connections and timing often play significant roles in career success. Despite my diverse skills in filming, editing, writing, and animating, I still face struggles as a freelance cinematographer.
B. Ensuring a Safety Net:
Considering a more stable career path alongside your passion can be wise. Accounting is a field with steady demand, providing financial security. If you major in accounting and minor in film, you could secure a stable job while still pursuing your passion on the side. Combining both could also open unique opportunities:
Accounting in the Film Industry: You could work as an accountant within film studios or production companies, allowing you to stay connected to the industry you love.
Business and Film Combined Degree: A degree that combines film and business could make you highly valuable, as the film industry always needs professionals who understand both the creative and financial aspects.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your career goals and risk tolerance. If financial stability is a priority, majoring in accounting with a minor in film could be a practical choice. However, if you’re committed to pursuing a career in film, consider ways to integrate your practical skills into the industry.
Best of luck to you!
Thank you for your detailed answer! Stability is definitely something I worry about (especially with the rise in prices) but I think my passion for film overrides that. I definitely want to be smart about my choice, and know that there are pros and cons for everything. I know the film industry is not a stable income, one day you can get a ton of money and then the next month is might not be that much. But I always loved creativity in any form of media, I would definitely get more fulfillment from majoring in film - especially since I've been in film since 9th grade. Screenwriting is something I'm thinking about as well, so I'm happy to get experience from someone already in the industry! Would you say sometimes its more about the connections than about the skill?
Maya