Master of Professional Studies (Digital Cinema Studies)
Hours: 30 On-Campus
About
The Master of Professional Studies (MPS) with a concentration in Digital Cinema Studies at Fort Hays State University provides the resources and guidance needed for those pursuing careers in the film industry, including traditional film, documentary, and long-form television production. Led by experienced faculty who are experts in their fields, the program focuses on current industry trends, techniques, and theories.
Through hands-on projects, coursework, and collaborative assignments, students gain practical skills and real-world experience essential for today’s competitive job market. Graduates are well-prepared to meet the challenges of a dynamic and evolving industry.
Why pursue a Master of Professional Studies (Digital Cinema Studies) at Fort Hays State University?
FHSU's MPS with a concentration in Digital Cinema Studies offers an immersive, project-based learning experience. Students engage in every stage of the production process—from pre-production and scripting to filming, editing, and post-production—gaining valuable hands-on experience. This practical approach equips students with the skills and confidence needed to create professional-quality content.
Who is this program for?
Our MPS with a concentration in Digital Cinema Studies features a diverse curriculum designed to appeal to individuals from a wide range of interests and backgrounds. The program is structured to nurture creative talent while preparing students for successful careers in the film and media industries. It is well-suited for a variety of individuals, including:
- Aspiring film producers, directors, and cinematographers
- Media enthusiasts who want to learn about the latest trends
- Technically inclined individuals
- Anyone trying to gain practical experience in film production
- Creative Professionals seeking to enhance their current skillset
Learning Outcomes
Through a blend of theoretical knowledge, hands-on experience, and interaction with industry professionals, graduates of the program gain the skills and confidence necessary to succeed in a variety of roles within the film and media industry. Key learning outcomes include:
Develop a Solid Story and Script
Graduates will be skilled in crafting compelling narratives that captivate audiences. They will have a strong understanding of screenwriting fundamentals, including character development, plot structure, and dialogue writing.
Submit the Project to Film Festivals and Receive Feedback
Students have an opportunity to submit their short films to film festivals, allowing them to share their work with a broader audience. This experience provides valuable feedback from industry professionals and helps students gain recognition for their creative talents.
Evaluate the Impact the Short Film has Made
Students will assess the audience reception of their short film, evaluating how effectively it communicates its message and engages viewers. This critical analysis deepens their understanding of audience preferences and the overall impact of their work.
Real-World Applications
Upon enrollment, students are introduced to the tools and techniques used by professionals in the entertainment industry. Expert instructors guide them through courses in visual storytelling, cinematography, and lighting, equipping them to create high-quality content from the start. The program ensures graduates are well-prepared to thrive in the evolving media landscape.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Faculty members at FHSU remain current with the latest trends, technological advancements, and industry developments. They actively collaborate with students to support their learning and professional growth. Similarly, the Department of Informatics continually adapts to industry changes to ensure students have access to cutting-edge technology.
The program’s comprehensive curriculum introduces students to the technical aspects of digital film production, including camera movement, non-linear editing, and sound design. Students also have the unique opportunity to work collaboratively on creative projects such as music videos and short films.
Hands-on Activities
After completing pre-production, students advance to the dynamic production phase, where they take responsibility for the visual style of the film. Drawing on their knowledge of producing, directing, and cinematography, they work closely with their team to bring the script to life, capturing characters and scenes on camera.
In the post-production stage, students shape the final product by editing raw footage into a polished cinematic piece, ready for submission to film festivals nationwide. They refine the film’s pacing, enhance visuals, and emphasize emotional moments, demonstrating their skills at every stage of the production process.
What You’ll Learn:
- Visual storytelling, cinematography, and lighting techniques
- Technical aspects of digital video production
- Responsibility for the graphic look of the final film
- Editing skills to transform raw footage into a polished cinematic masterpiece
- Capturing the essence of the script and bringing characters and scenes to life on screen
How You’ll Learn:
- Hands-on projects and coursework
- Collaborative assignments
- Immersive, project-based learning experience
- Preparation for practical applications in the real world
- Consistent updates with industry-aligned faculty and curriculum
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,559.42* (on-campus) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the Graduate resident/regional tuition rate ($284.38/credit hour) for on-campus courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related programs
In addition to the MPS with a concentration in Digital Cinema Production program, FHSU offers a variety of courses that prospective students may consider, which complement this program:
- Certificate in Social Media Marketing
- Master of Business Administration (Digital Marketing)
- Certificate in Marketing
- Master of Professional Studies (Web and Mobile Applications)
Information about the Department of Informatics
FHSU’s Department of Informatics allows you to tailor your education to your interests in data, analytics, and digital media. Our dynamic program empowers you to design your own curriculum and gain cutting-edge skills that make you a leader in today’s tech-driven world. Whether you choose to study on campus or online, you’ll learn to harness the power of data and technology to solve real-world problems and shape your career path.
In a field that has rapidly evolved into one of the most in-demand job markets, the possibilities are endless. From data analytics and cybersecurity to digital media and information management, Informatics offers a vast array of high-paying, high-impact careers. At FHSU, we provide the expertise, hands-on experience, and industry connections to help you excel in a profession that didn’t exist several years ago but is now essential across every industry.