(Photo Courtesy of Rogers State University)
CLAREMORE, Okla. — Rogers State University partnered with the Cherokee Nation to allow the school’s film students to earn college credit for completing courses at the Cherokee Film Institute.
“As the film and media industry continues to grow, Cherokee Nation is committed to leading the way in developing the skilled workforce needed to support that momentum,” explained Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. “By pairing the proven, hands-on training offered through Cherokee Film Institute with the value of higher education at Rogers State University, we are creating a stronger pathway for students to gain practical experience, earn college credit and build meaningful careers in this growing industry.”
The tribe’s film institute’s courses help prepare students for entry-level jobs in the film industry, placing a particular focus on Native American representation and below-the-line production.
The Cherokee Film Institute’s certification program focuses on five core areas:
Intro to Industry:Gives students an understanding of the current film and media landscape, while also teaching them about the career opportunities available in the field. The institute’s course also specifically focuses on Native American representation, guidelines for working with tribes and the best practices when it comes to filming on tribal lands.
Intro to Production Office:Allows students to understand how a film production office actually operates, focusing on administrative responsibilities and coordination among various production departments.
Intro to Location Management:Provides students with an insight into location scouting, the best practices for industry communications and how to collaborate with other production departments.
Intro to Camera Basics:Teaches students the foundational knowledge and skills for becoming a camera operator.
Intro to Postproduction Sound:Focuses specifically on the careers available in the sound department, teaches students how to use industry-standard digital audio workstations and the basic skills needed for sound production.
RSU President Don Raleigh stated, “The work happening through Cherokee Film Institute aligns naturally with our commitment to preparing students for success beyond the classroom. By bringing together hands-on, industry-based training and higher education, we are giving students a distinct advantage as they enter the workforce. They will have the academic foundation, practical experience and industry knowledge needed to step into their careers prepared to contribute from day one.”
Beginning this fall, RSU students will be able to earn three credit hours for each eligible CFI Production Assistant program course they complete and up to 15 credit hours can be applied as elective credit toward the university’s Bachelor of Arts in Communications, Film Arts degree.
Cherokee Film Institute courses are open to anyone 18 or older and are taught at Cherokee Film Studios in Owasso and the Tulsa Tech Owasso Campus.
To learn more about the Cherokee Film Institute, click here.
To learn more about Rogers State University, click here.
