About this Program
Documentaries have become one of the fastest-growing genres on streaming platforms today, with the number of documentary series surging by 63% between 2018 and 2021. And with more companies and organizations turning to nonfiction and documentary-style films for their marketing, branding, fundraising and educational efforts, the need for people with documentary storytelling skills is high.
This specialization will help you hone the skills you’ll need to create impactful nonfiction and documentary film content that people will want to watch. We’ll cover how to research and prepare documentary proposals for funders and develop video content that meets a client’s specifications. You’ll use the principles of storytelling to write a script that'll keep your audience engaged. You’ll also learn a variety of interviewing techniques for film shoots and editing methods that tie the story together.
Designed For
Those with some experience in films and/or video production, scriptwriting, journalism, podcasting or web content development who want to build their nonfiction and documentary storytelling skills.
See Requirements
Admission Requirements
To apply, you must:
- Have experience (personal or professional) in ONE of the following areas:
- Film, video or photography
- Journalism, copywriting or scriptwriting
- Writing for film, theater, websites, print or online publications, or podcasts
- Be able to use video-editing software (see Technology Requirements for additional details)
Time Commitment
In addition to the weekly evening class and Saturday morning session, you’ll spend time outside of class on homework assignments and individual practice and study. The number of hours will vary greatly depending on your individual goals. For more details on time commitment, talk to an enrollment coach.
English Proficiency
If English is not your native language, you should have at least intermediate English skills to enroll. To see if you qualify, make sure you are at the B2 level on the CEFR self-assessment grid. To learn more, see English Language Proficiency Requirements – Noncredit Programs.
International Students
Because this offering is 100% online, no visa is required and international students are welcome to apply. For more information, see Admission Requirements for International Students.
Technology Requirements
- Access to and some ability to use your preferred video-editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut, DaVinci Resolve, Avid, Wondershare, iMovie)
- Access to a computer with a recent operating system and web browser
- High-speed internet connection
- External hard drive (2 terabyte minimum) for media storage
- Camera or cell phone that can take photos
- Headset and webcam
Earning the Certificate
You earn a certificate of completion by successfully completing all required courses. For more information, see Earning the Certificate.
Skills You’ll Gain
- Content development
- Scriptwriting
- Visual storytelling
- Film proposals
- Research methods
- Interviewing techniques
- Client management
- Post-production editing
Get Real-World Experience
You'll write and edit a nonfiction or documentary script, practice relevant interview techniques, develop a story in response to a client’s need and edit video content using industry-standard software.
Career Stats
37%
Growth in demand for documentary filmmaking skills in the U.S. (2020–2023)
133%
Growth in demand for documentary filmmaking skills in Washington state (2020–2023)
EARN A DIGITAL BADGE
After successfully completing this program, you can claim a digital achievement badge that can be shared on LinkedIn and other social media sites. Learn more about digital badges.
OUR ENROLLMENT COACHES ARE HERE TO HELP
Connect with an enrollment coach to learn more about this offering. Or if you need help finding the right certificate, specialization or course for you, reach out to explore your options.