UCI Partners with MediaU for Unique, Interactive Online Learning for Current & Aspiring Talent

IRVINE, Calif., Jan. 03, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Attending film school, or receiving any kind of professional accreditation in film or media studies, is the dream for almost everyone who aspires to a career in entertainment.  However, the traditional model of admissions can prove challenging, and most programs don’t offer practical, career-readiness skills for gainful employment following completion of their courses. The University of California, Irvine Division of Continuing Education (DCE) has formed a collaboration with MediaU to create a new Film & Media Studies Certificate Program that solves both problems. Together, they have created a unique and practical film and media program, open to anyone regardless of prior knowledge or scholastic achievement, that will teach the real-life, practical skills needed for film and media careers. This online program is designed for working professionals who want to pursue story-based, industry-focused film studies on their own schedules. This program is ideal for students at any stage of their careers, from young and eager director hopefuls to mid-career professionals in the entertainment industry. 

Students will develop a working knowledge of film and media through immersive, practical curriculum and access to prestigious instructors, industry events, and job opportunities. This experiential program gives students access to a growing international community of learners to engage with while completing each module. Instructors are professionals who work in the entertainment industry and encourage students to experiment with principles and techniques while collaborating and sharing feedback to prepare them for careers in the film industry.

“We are excited to offer this affordable, accessible alternative to traditional film school for aspiring and working entertainment industry professionals,” said Ian Gibson, Program Director at University of California Irvine, Division of Continuing Education. “UCI’s new program provides a fresh take on the way film and media education is done while addressing current and emerging filmmaking trends. Through our partnership with MediaU, students will be able to pursue a first-of-its-kind employment-focused program that incorporates festival and industry events for a real-world proving ground for their achievements.”

The first course in the Film & Media Studies Certificate Program, launching February 11, 2019, is Directors & Actors: Casting! The class introduces aspiring actors and directors to the collaborative creative process, helping students build trust, examine and test interpersonal strategies, and understand the fundamentals of attracting and selecting top talent. Led by film and TV veteran Peter D. Marshall, this interactive course uses various media including video and podcasts to drive engagement and demonstrate real-world applications.

MediaU founder Adam Leipzig explains that launching the program with the Directors & Actors: Casting! course was a strategic decision. “Ultimately the certificate will include additional courses focused on the partnership between directors and actors. The Casting! course provides a foundation for building a connection between the two, establishing their coequal roles,” he said. The award-winning producer, distributor, and media executive adds, “We are thrilled to work with such respected film and industry professionals and the prestigious University of California, Irvine. We look forward to growing this exciting new program.”

For more information about the Film & Media Studies Certificate, please visit our website or call Gina Cho at (949) 824-4598.

About UCI Division of Continuing Education: The University of California, Irvine Division of Continuing Education (DCE) provides lifelong learning opportunities to thousands of students worldwide each year – fulfilling the school’s 60-year curriculum platform to connect degree programs to the world of work and achievement after graduation. The Division offers a broad range of certificate programs, specialized studies, and sequential courses to local, regional and global markets through online, on-campus and on-site delivery. A leader in the open education movement, the Division offers free Massive Online Open Courses (MOOCs) and content through the UCI Open initiative. For more information about UCI Division of Continuing Education, visit here.

About the University of California, Irvine: Founded in 1965, UCI is the youngest member of the prestigious Association of American Universities. The campus has produced three Nobel laureates and is known for its academic achievement, premier research, innovation, and anteater mascot. Led by Chancellor Howard Gillman, UCI has more than 28,000 students and offers 192 degree programs. Located in one of the world’s safest and most economically vibrant communities, it’s Orange County’s second-largest employer, contributing $4.8 billion annually to the local economy.

About MediaU:
MediaU (https://www.mediau.com/) is reinventing film and media learning, telling stories onscreen for the ways we communicate now—and into the future. The company works closely with Slamdance Film Festival, the world-renowned organization that supports independent filmmakers at all stages of the creative process. MediaU is founded by Adam Leipzig, who has produced, distributed, supervised, and financed more than 30 films independently and for studios. Course design supervision is by innovative learning expert Tiska Wiedermann.

MEDIA CONTACT: Vivian Slater
(714) 573-0899 x 235
vivian@echomediateam.com