“Cinema is a mirror by which we often see ourselves.”— Satyajit Ray

If you’ve watched a film, felt moved by a scene, or wondered why a certain shot felt powerful, you’ve already tapped into the magic of filmmaking. Indian cinema isn’t just entertainment — it’s a cultural heartbeat that connects millions. And if you’re reading this, you’re probably thinking: Can I make movies too? The good news — yes, you absolutely can.

But here’s the big question many students struggle with:

Should I go for a Film and TV Production Course like a Bachelor of Film and Television Production (Film Production Degree), or should I start with a Diploma in Film Making?

Let’s break it down in a way that makes sense to YOU — with honest advice, real options, and a bit of friendly clarity.

Why Filmmaking Is a Smart Choice Right Now

Before we compare the two paths, let’s look at why film production and filmmaking are worth considering as a career option today.

India’s screen world — films, television, and online video content combined — is booming:

• In 2024, the Indian film, TV and OTT industry was valued at over ₹5 lakh crore, and it supported more than 26 lakh jobs across production, post‑production, marketing, distribution, and more. (Moneycontrol) 
• Another report showed that the screen sector generated USD 61.2 billion (₹5,14,000 crore) and supported 2.64 million jobs in 2024. (Times of India) 

These numbers don’t lie — people are watching more content than ever, and India remains one of the largest movie‑making hubs in the world.

Now let’s look at your two paths.

Understanding Both Options

There are two common ways to enter the world of films:

1. Bachelor of Film and Television Production (Film Production Degree)
2. Diploma in Film Making

Both have value — but they serve slightly different purposes.

1. Bachelor of Film and Television Production (Film Production Degree)

This is a full‑length undergraduate programme, usually 3 years, that gives you a complete foundation in filmmaking. It’s both creative and technical — ideal if you want a career with depth and long‑term growth.

At Scope Global Skills University (SGSU), Bhopal, this is offered as part of a Film and TV Production Course designed to help students become industry‑ready from day one. You’ll learn everything from storytelling and direction to camera work, editing, production planning, sound design, and even the business of films.

SGSU’s Bachelor of Film and Television Production focuses on:

• Scriptwriting and visual storytelling
• Direction and creative leadership
• Cinematography and lighting
• Sound design and audio production
• Editing, VFX basics, and post‑production
• Production planning, budgeting, and set management
• Practical projects, internships and real‑world experience

This isn’t just about learning tools — it’s about shaping a filmmaker’s mindset. You’ll work on real short films, collaborate with peers, interact with professionals, and build a portfolio you’re proud of.

A Film Production Degree like this doesn’t just make you skilled — it makes you versatile. After graduation, you can work in films, television, OTT shows, advertising, documentaries, short films — the choice is yours.

2. Diploma in Film Making

A Diploma in Film Making is generally shorter — often 1 to 2 years — and focuses on practical filmmaking skills.

Think of it as a fast track into filmmaking:

• You learn camera handling, lighting, editing software (like Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve), basic sound techniques, and shooting formats.
• You work on projects from the very first semester.
• You build confidence in production skills quickly.

Diplomas are perfect if you want to get into the action‑side of filmmaking fast, especially if you already know you love the technical parts like cinematography or editing.

But here’s something important:
A diploma gives you hands‑on skills — but it may not explore the why behind choices filmmakers make. You may know how to do it… but not always understand why that choice was made in the first place.

That’s where a Film Production Degree has an advantage.

Choosing Based on Your Career Vision

Your decision should align with your career goals, personality, and timeline.

Choose a Film Production Degree if…

• You want a strong foundation — both creative and technical.
• You see yourself as a director, producer, editor, or cinematographer.
• You want to understand film theory, history, and storytelling deeply.
• You value internships, industry tie‑ups, and longer, guided learning.
• You’re open to careers beyond set — like creative leadership, production management, distribution, etc.

This path builds a solid career trajectory — perfect if you want long‑term growth inside the film industry.

Choose a Diploma in Film Making if…

• You want to learn fast and get into actual shooting quickly.
• You thrive in practical, hands-on environments.
• You’re focused more on editing, camera work or technical roles.
• You want to build a portfolio fast and start freelancing or joining sets soon.

This path is great if you love doing more than studying theory. However, many diploma holders later choose degree programmes too — so it doesn’t have to be a final stop.

What SGSU Brings to the Table

Here’s where Scope Global Skills University (SGSU), Bhopal stands out:

1. Industry‑Aligned Learning
   SGSU designs the Film and TV Production Course with industry professionals — so what you learn today is what the industry needs tomorrow.
2. Holistic Curriculum
   The Bachelor of Film and Television Production isn’t just camera and editing — it also covers scripting, sound, production management, distribution basics, and the business of filmmaking.
3. Hands‑On Projects Every Semester
   You don’t just watch tutorials — you make films. Actual short films, collaborative projects, team challenges, and production simulations.
4. Internships & Industry Exposure
   SGSU connects students with studios, production houses, independent directors, and content creators for internships and real work experiences.
5. Career Support
   Placement support, industry workshops, portfolio building sessions and networking events help graduates enter the film world with confidence.

Whether you’re just starting or are unsure which path to take, SGSU gives you clarity and direction — not just a certificate.

Learn more about SGSU’s Bachelor of Film and Television Production here: https://sgsuniversity.ac.in/course/bachelor-of-arts-in-film-and-television-production/

Career Opportunities After Each Course

Both paths open doors — but which doors depend on what you want to do.

After a Film Production Degree

You can step into roles such as:

• Director
• Assistant Director
• Producer
• Cinematographer
• Editor
• Sound Designer
• Scriptwriter
• Production Manager
• Content Creator for OTT and digital platforms

This degree gives you flexibility — you’re not limited to one lane.

After a Diploma in Film Making

You’re more likely to start in:

• Camera Assistant
• Video Editor
• Lighting or Sound Technician
• Short Film Producer
• Assistant roles on set
• Freelance filmmaker

A diploma gets you onto sets fast and builds skills that are immediately usable.

So What Should YOU Choose?

Here’s a simple rule:

If you want a long‑term, well‑rounded filmmaking career —
➡ Go for a Film and TV Production Course like a Bachelor of Film and Television Production (Film Production Degree).

If you want fast, practical skills and want to start working sooner —
➡ A Diploma in Film Making is a good starting point.

But remember — no choice is final. Many successful filmmakers start with diplomas and later take degrees. Others begin with degrees and then specialise with short courses. What matters most is your passion, persistence, and learning mindset.

Final Words

Filmmaking isn’t just a profession — it’s a creative journey. Whether you dream of directing mainstream films, making documentaries, working on web series, or mastering editing and cinematography — the world of cinema welcomes all kinds of storytellers.

At the end of the day, your education — whether it’s a Film Production Degree or a Film Making Course — is just the beginning. What you create with it defines your story.

Lights. Camera. Your future!