Master of Professional Studies (Digital Cinema Studies)
Hours: 30 On-Campus
About
The Master of Professional Studies (Digital Cinema Studies) at Fort Hays State University equips students with the knowledge, skills, and mentorship needed to pursue successful careers in the film industry, including traditional filmmaking, documentary production, and long-form television. Guided by accomplished faculty with extensive industry experience, the program emphasizes contemporary trends, techniques, and theories shaping today’s cinematic landscape.
Through a combination of hands-on projects, rigorous coursework, and collaborative experiences, students develop practical expertise and creative confidence essential for thriving in a competitive, ever-evolving media environment. Graduates emerge ready to excel in diverse roles across the dynamic world of digital cinema.
Why pursue a Master of Professional Studies (Digital Cinema Studies) at Fort Hays State University?
The Master of Professional Studies (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?
This program features a diverse curriculum designed to engage individuals from a wide range of interests and backgrounds. It fosters creative development while equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed for success in the film and media industries. The program is ideal for a variety of learners, 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
Real-World Applications
Upon enrollment, students gain hands-on experience with the tools and techniques used by professionals across the entertainment industry. Guided by expert instructors, they explore courses in visual storytelling, cinematography, and lighting, developing the skills necessary to produce high-quality content from the outset. The program prepares graduates to excel in the fast-changing and dynamic world of media and film.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University stays at the forefront of emerging trends, technological innovations, and industry developments. Faculty members work closely with students, fostering academic and professional growth through mentorship and collaboration. The Department of Informatics continually evolves to reflect industry advancements, ensuring students have access to the latest tools and technologies.
The program’s comprehensive curriculum immerses students in the technical and creative aspects of digital film production, including camera movement, non-linear editing, and sound design. Students also gain valuable hands-on experience by collaborating on a variety of creative projects, such as music videos and short films.
Hands-on Activities
After completing the pre-production phase, students progress to the dynamic world of production, where they take creative responsibility for the film’s visual style. Drawing on their expertise in producing, directing, and cinematography, they collaborate closely with their team to transform the script into a compelling on-screen story, capturing performances, scenes, and visuals that bring the narrative to life.
During post-production, students refine their projects by transforming raw footage into polished cinematic work ready for submission to film festivals nationwide. Through careful editing, visual enhancement, and emotional pacing, they demonstrate mastery of the entire filmmaking process, from concept to final cut.
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 Master of Professional Studies (Digital Cinema Studies) program provides a strong foundation in production knowledge. Students collaborate with their committee members to develop a compelling story and then bring it to life as a film ready for distribution.
INF 638G: Intensive Video Production
Advanced study and application of electronic production techniques in the field and studio. Emphasis is placed on shooting, lighting, directing, and editing of electronic news and on-location productions.
INF 634G: Graphics and Effects for Film and Video
This course focuses on advanced visual techniques in video post-production. Students will develop mastery in graphic design for video and film, as well as advanced proficiency in operating digital post-production equipment. Students will understand the theory behind it and have an opportunity to develop skills in post-production techniques for the television, film, and post-production industries.
INF 896: Capstone – Digital Cinema
This is a culminating course for students seeking a graduate degree from the Department of Informatics. This course consists of a structured seminar designed to enable students to reflect on experiences gained during the MPS in Digital Cinema Studies program and synthesize that knowledge and expertise into a capstone project. Students are required to complete a significant project and a research paper at the master's degree level. The student will work very closely with their advisor/professor on the project. This project has a tight schedule and must be approved by the reviewing committee for the student to pass this course successfully.
Discover the full Master of Professional Studies (Digital Cinema Studies) course listing by visiting the Academic Calendar.
Graduates successfully enter the industry, securing positions at renowned studios, advertising agencies, and production companies nationwide. This program equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue careers in a wide range of fields within the media and entertainment industry.
Independent Filmmaker
Independent filmmakers craft original short films, documentaries, and feature-length productions that reflect their unique creative vision. They write compelling scripts, direct engaging performances, and utilize professional digital cinema equipment to bring their stories to life with technical precision and artistic depth.
Television Producer
Television producers oversee the entire production process of television programs, from concept development to final broadcast. They collaborate closely with directors, writers, and editors to ensure the finished product meets the highest standards of quality and professionalism.
Videographer
Videographers capture events, create promotional videos, and produce documentaries. Their ability to tell compelling stories visually is highly sought after across a wide range of industries.
Motion Graphics Artist
A career as a motion graphics artist suits those passionate about animation and visual effects. They create captivating graphics that enhance storytelling and elevate the visual impact of videos, advertisements, and other multimedia projects.
Fort Hays State University is committed to preparing students for success through comprehensive instruction and professional skills development. Applicants seeking admission to the Master of Professional Studies (Digital Cinema Studies) program must meet the following criteria:
Academic Performance
Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 in their most recent 60 undergraduate credit hours, demonstrating consistent academic proficiency and dedication.
Bachelor's Degree Completion
Applicants must hold a valid bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, reflecting the foundational knowledge required for the Master of Professional Studies (Digital Cinema Studies).
Graduate School Application
Applicants must complete a comprehensive application to the Graduate School, which serves as the first step in the admission process for the esteemed online degree program.
Two Recommendations
Applicants are required to provide two letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to their academic abilities, preferably from those with direct knowledge of their work.
Personal Statement
Applicants must submit a personal statement that expresses their enthusiasm for the program, demonstrates their readiness for graduate-level coursework, and explains how the program aligns with their personal and professional goals.
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 Master of Professional Studies (Digital Cinema Studies) 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)
In this program, you will learn the process of creating and editing digital videos for theatrical release, television broadcast, or distribution. It involves a range of skills, including cinematography, editing, sound design, and visual effects.
We have students working in all aspects of production, including roles with production companies in Kansas, Colorado, Nebraska, California, Georgia, and beyond.
Fort Hays State University provides an immersive learning experience, offering hands-on training in every aspect of filmmaking. Students gain practical skills and industry insights, stay updated with the latest trends, and work on real-world projects to develop comprehensive expertise in digital cinema studies.
At a minimum, students should have access to a laptop capable of editing 4K video. While students can purchase their own camera, microphone kits, and other equipment (and may do so), the Department of Informatics has its own gear available to all students enrolled in its programs.
Providing the student can skip any leveling classes, the program can be completed in four semesters. While students are not required to take summer courses, they are encouraged to spend the summer between their first and second years finalizing pre-production, working with their actors, and so on.
Information about the Department of Informatics
The Department of Informatics at FHSU offers a flexible and forward-thinking education tailored to students' interests in data, analytics, and digital media. This dynamic program empowers students to customize their curriculum and develop cutting-edge skills essential for leadership in today’s technology-driven world. Whether studying on campus or online, students learn to leverage data and technology to solve real-world challenges and shape their own career paths.
As one of the fastest-growing and most in-demand fields, informatics opens the door to a wide range of high-impact, high-paying careers—from data analytics and cybersecurity to digital media and information management. FHSU equips students with expert instruction, hands-on learning opportunities, and strong industry connections to help them succeed in a profession that has quickly become vital across nearly every sector.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- Cybersecurity Club: The Cybersecurity Club is dedicated to promoting awareness and understanding of evolving cybersecurity principles and techniques. Open to all students, regardless of experience or skill level, the club welcomes anyone with an interest in topics such as network security, digital forensics, penetration testing, secure coding, cryptography, reverse engineering, and more. Through hands-on activities and collaborative learning, the club provides a supportive environment for exploring the many facets of cybersecurity.
- Tiger Media Network: TMN is the student-run news outlet at FHSU, offering hands-on experience in various aspects of media production. Open to students with interests in videography, photography, news writing, journalism, and related fields, TMN provides valuable opportunities to develop practical skills while contributing to campus news and storytelling.
- Advanced Technology Student Organization: The Advanced Technology Student Organization (ATSO) offers a collaborative learning environment for students interested in exploring the ever-evolving world of technology. The organization brings together members to support one another’s educational growth while promoting innovation and technological advancement. ATSO’s primary goal is to foster knowledge-sharing and unite students in driving both the organization and FHSU's continued progress in the tech field.
- Master's
- On-Campus
