Lights, camera, action! A new series of classes offered by UALR’s School of Mass Communication will give students interested in a movie making career new opportunities in the growing Arkansas entertainment industry.

The new motion picture degree option will include courses in screenwriting, movie-making techniques, documentary production, and non-linear video editing.

SMC has long had a highly successful film minor. The new option will build on that minor and its already-existing production courses.

Dr. Mark Giese, associate professor of mass communications and a member of the motion picture faculty, said officials of the Arkansas Film Commission, the Little Rock Regional Chamber of Commerce, and Pulaski Technical College applauded the move.

“Through contacts with the economic development and film communities, we’ve seen a growing interest in this field both locally and regionally,” he said. “We’ve not only seen that interest for trained professionals, but an increased interest from students wanting to enter the field.”

UALR is also partnering with Pulaski Technical College to complement and expand on the new media arts program offered by the two-year college. That program will concentrate on technology-oriented courses such as cinematography and sound design.

The UALR motion picture option directs students toward creative and comprehensive subjects such as screen writing and documentary and movie production, and will be offered beginning fall 2012.

For more information about the movie making option, contact Dr. Giese at 501-569-3250 or visit the School of Mass Communication website.