Minor in Documentary Film Production at Oregon
Documentaries have the power to inform, inspire, and change the way we see the world. The University of Oregon's Documentary Film Production minor, housed within the School of Journalism and Communication, teaches you how to tell compelling nonfiction stories through film while exploring the social, cultural, environmental, political, and personal issues that shape human experience. The minor combines hands-on filmmaking experience with an understanding of documentary history, theory, and industry practices.
Open to students from any major, the program is ideal for creative storytellers, aspiring filmmakers, journalists, and anyone interested in using media to explore real-world ideas and experiences. Through every stage of production, students learn how to transform research and observation into meaningful visual narratives.
Curriculum Overview
Gain hands-on training in documentary concept development, research, production, and distribution.
Study the history, theory, and evolution of documentary filmmaking through influential films and filmmakers.
Develop creative and technical skills in cinematography, composition, sound, lighting, editing, and visual storytelling.
Complete a production sequence that guides students through pre-production, production, and post-production while creating original documentary work.
Careers in Documentary Film Production
Students develop valuable skills in storytelling, visual communication, project management, research, and media production. These skills prepare graduates for opportunities in filmmaking, journalism, digital media, content creation, communications, nonprofit advocacy, and related creative industries. The minor also complements many majors, such as journalism, anthropology, environmental studies, cinema studies, and ethnic studies.