Q. Is Center For Film Studies Licensed?
A. Yes, we are a State Licensed Proprietary school. Our courses are registered through the Department of Labor and Economic Growth (DLEG).
Q. Do you offer financing?
A. We have been approved by the State of Michigan through Michigan Works’ “No Worker Left Behind” program, and the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) program. We also provide financing and payment plans for self pay individuals.
Q. Which classes should I take?
A. This depends on your existing skill set and your goals for working in the film industry. We recommend taking one of our Diploma Programs, by ‘cross-training’ over a series of courses, you will be more valuable and flexible to film and TV producers, which will open more job opportunities for you. We recommend speaking with a CFS career counselor to make this decision.
Q. How is CFS different than the other film-crew training schools?
A. We provide job resources for all of our Graduates through out internal website “Crew Connection”, which gives graduates a portal to jobs, crew calls and industry information. In addition, our curriculum meets Hollywood standards, our instructors have worked their specific trade for 25 – 35 years.
Q. What are the chances of getting a job?
A. CFS and Crew Connection have achieved a 82% placement rate for active Graduates in both film and TV.
Michigan’s Film Industry projects 25-30,000 new paid job opportunities. Students can apply their skills to a variety of projects including film, TV, commercials, music, theatre, and live events.
Q. How much can I make in the film industry?
A. This depends on the following things:
- Your level of training.
- The position you obtain on set.
- The budget of the production.
- The length of the job.
- The producers standards.
*Based on information from the Michigan Film Office the 2009 average pay for experienced crew was $30/ hour.
Much of the work in the film industry is project based and wages will vary. Once you begin working in the industry, you will have an idea of what types of jobs are right for you. The more experience you gain, the higher your wages will be.
Q: What do I need to know about the Film Studios?
A. Typically studio spaces are used for production companies and filmmakers to rent out. Although they are an important element of the film world, employment is done through the individual production companies, rather than the studios themselves.
