What can you do with a Cinematography and Film-Video Production degree from Emerson College?

First, some facts. Of the Cinematography and Film-Video Production graduates from Emerson College we've analyzed , here's how many have used (or NOT used) their degree in their career:


These are estimates based on AI analysis of 19 LinkedIn profiles (see below).

The verdict? Below average. Overall, with an average relevance score of 57%, Cinematography and Film-Video Production graduates from Emerson College have a lower likelihood (-10%) of finding work in this field compared to the average graduate across all fields:

Average score: 57%
Average relevance score across all fields: 67%

And for comparison, here's the chart for all profiles we've looked at across all degrees.

× Chart

Also, after graduating, only 10% of these graduates have pursued further education other than another Bachelor's degree (such as a Masters degree or other), compared to the average across all profiles of 35%. This suggests a Bachelors degree is enough for most Cinematography and Film-Video Production graduates, and it's normal to look for work straight after graduation.

See the details:

View a random Cinematography and Film-Video Production graduate from Emerson College and our analysis:


Relevance score: 52%

We think this person has gone into a career only somewhat relevant to their degree.

DEGREE INFO

Graduated in 2016 from Emerson College with a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Cinematography and Film-Video Production. No other secondary education since.

JOB HISTORY SINCE GRADUATION
Intern
Revolver Gallery
Sep 2016 - Dec 2016
The internship at Revolver Gallery does not utilize specific cinematography or film-production skills, as it likely involves administrative tasks unrelated to the field of film.

Makeup Artist
Este Lauder
Aug 2017 - Aug 2018
The role of a Makeup Artist at Este Lauder focuses on cosmetic application and beauty techniques, which are not directly related to cinematography or film-video production.

Complex Rehab Support Admin
A&A Medical Supply LLC
Aug 2018 - Nov 2020
Complex Rehab Support Admin at A&A Medical Supply LLC does not require film-related skills or knowledge, focusing instead on administrative duties in the medical supply industry.

Rehab Support Supervisor
Reliable Medical Supply
Apr 2020 - Jan 2022
The position of Rehab Support Supervisor at Reliable Medical Supply does not involve cinematography or film-video production skills, but rather management of support services in a healthcare setting.

Marketing Specialist
HV Supply
Jan 2022 - Nov 2023
As a Marketing Specialist at HV Supply, some skills from film and media such as content creation and visual communication may apply, but the job primarily focuses on marketing strategy rather than film expertise.

Multimedia Illustrator/ Storyboard Artist
Freelance
Sep 2018 - Present
The role as a Multimedia Illustrator/Storyboard Artist directly utilizes skills from the B.A. in Cinematography and Film-Video Production, involving significant application of storytelling and visual design principles in a film context.

Digital Marketing Coordinator
Bright Industry LLC
Dec 2021 - Present
The position as a Digital Marketing Coordinator at Bright Industry LLC may involve some creative skills related to film and media production, but primarily centers on digital marketing strategies, making it only partially relevant.

ABOUT

No information provided.

What jobs can you get with a Cinematography and Film-Video Production degree from Emerson College?

The top 10 most common jobs done by the graduates we've analyzed (ranked most common to least) are:


After taking a look at the job paths of individuals who graduated from Emerson College with a degree in Cinematography and Film-Video Production, it's clear that many of them gravitated toward roles that heavily utilize the skills and knowledge gained during their studies. Common job titles include Production Assistant, Editor, Director, and roles related to specific technical functions like Grip/Gaffer or Chief Lighting Technician. These positions are directly relevant to film and production, indicating that many graduates found their way into settings where they could really apply what they learned. For example, working as a Set PA or a freelance Cinematographer directly connects to their education, allowing them to thrive in the industry. However, not all graduates have followed this trajectory. Some have taken on roles that are quite a stretch from their area of expertise. Positions like an Executive Assistant, Administrative Assistant, or even a Barista show that while the degree provides a solid foundation, the reality is that not everyone ends up in film-focused roles. Some jobs listed are more supportive or even unrelated to filmmaking, suggesting a mixed bag when it comes to relevance. Even in roles where some skills may transfer—like Marketing Specialists or Digital Coordinators—the direct application of cinematography and film production knowledge might not be at the forefront. Overall, while a significant portion of the graduates have landed jobs that align with their degree, there’s clearly a segment that has veered off into unrelated fields, demonstrating the diverse paths one can take after studying film.

Here is a visual representation of the most common words in job titles for Cinematography and Film-Video Production graduates (this is across all Cinematography and Film-Video Production graduates we've analyzed, not just those who went to Emerson College):

What kind of career trajectories do Cinematography and Film-Video Production graduates from Emerson College have? What do they do 1, 5 or 10 years out?

Looking at the career paths of Emerson College graduates in Cinematography and Film-Video Production, it's clear that many kick off their journeys with entry-level positions related to production, like PAs (Production Assistants), interns, or editors. For instance, graduates from the early 2010s often started off as PAs at production companies or in various support roles. Over the first few years after graduation, some of them began to land editing gigs or directing opportunities, showcasing a transition towards more specialized roles in the film and video industry. By about five years out, many of these graduates appear to establish themselves as freelancers or move up to specific roles like cinematographers or technical directors. A few have even founded their own production companies, indicating a strong entrepreneurial spirit in the film community.

However, not all of their paths have remained strictly within the cinematic universe. A number of graduates seem to drift into unrelated fields, such as administrative roles or even marketing. By the five to ten-year mark, you'll see a mix of success stories in the industry alongside those who’ve pivoted into different careers altogether. This highlights the competitiveness and sometimes harsh realities of the film industry, where not everyone remains in filmmaking or production despite their aspirations. Overall, while many graduates take on meaningful and relevant jobs, there’s a significant portion who find themselves in jobs that are reasonably provided but not directly aligned with their degree. So, it seems like a bit of a mixed bag!

How hard is a Cinematography and Film-Video Production degree from Emerson College?

Getting a Bachelor’s degree in Cinematography and Film-Video Production at Emerson College can be pretty intense, but it really depends on how passionate you are about film and storytelling. The program is hands-on and involves a lot of creative and technical work, which can be a blast if you’re into it, but it does demand long hours and a fair bit of dedication. You’ll be juggling classes, projects, and possibly even internships, which can be a lot to manage at times. So, while it might be easier for those who thrive in creative environments, it can feel challenging if you’re not super motivated or organized. Overall, it’s definitely more rigorous than some other degrees because of how immersive and skill-based it is—so if you’re ready to dive deep into the world of film, you’ll probably find it exhilarating!

How long does it take?

Most commonly, in the LinkedIn profiles we've looked at, it takes people 4 years to finish a Bachelor degree in Cinematography and Film-Video Production.

Do Cinematography and Film-Video Production graduates from Emerson College tend to make good money?

Looking at these Emerson College grads and their job paths after getting their degrees in Cinematography and Film-Video Production, it seems like they've had a mix of financial success. Some of the early roles, like production assistants and interns, usually don't pay a lot, which is something to expect when starting out in this industry. However, as they progressed, many landed positions like editors, directors, and various creative roles that generally offer better salaries. The timeline shows that it can take a few years of hustling and gaining experience before hitting those higher-paying jobs, but those who stuck it out in the film industry likely saw a decent income while others have diversified into marketing or freelancing, which can also be lucrative if they build a solid client base. Overall, it's clear that while the journey involves a lot of entry-level gigs, there’s potential for making decent money down the road if they play their cards right!

What buzzwords do Cinematography and Film-Video Production graduates use to describe themselves?

Here is a visual representation of the most common words seen in the "about" section of LinkedIn profiles who have a Bachelor degree in Cinematography and Film-Video Production (this is across all Cinematography and Film-Video Production graduates we've analyzed, not just those who went to Emerson College). This may or may not be useful:

What are the best colleges for Cinematography and Film-Video Production?

Here are all colleges offering a Bachelor degree in Cinematography and Film-Video Production (ordered by the average relevance score of their Cinematography and Film-Video Production graduates, best to worst) where we have analyzed at least 10 of their graduates:

College Score Count
Savannah College of Art and Design 67 14
Full Sail University 59 38
Emerson College 57 19
San Francisco State University 49 18