San Bernardino Valley College (SBVC) changed the name of its Radio, Television and Film program to Film, Television and Media to be more reflective of its field. Additionally, SBVC will launch a new Institute of Media Arts (IMA) to replace the former Inland Empire Media Arts (IEMA) which will include art, music and theater programs as well as film. 

"This evolution of the program speaks to the evolution in the industry of film and media," explained Lucas Cuny, director of the Institute of Media Arts. "With the growth in popularity in such things as streaming services, podcasts, and serialized content the program needed to update its focus to mirror what's happening in the industry."

The program will continue to feature cutting-edge curriculum and outstanding faculty who guide students on paths to careers in the media and entertainment industries. Associate's degrees and certificates are offered in concentrations of Digital Filmmaking, Audio Technology, Social Media Video Production, and TV Studio Production.

The goal of the program is for students to gain a foundational understanding of the key aesthetic, historical and industrial concepts of cinema, as well as a technical practice in digital film, streaming media, and television production. Students are able to gain experience by working in a 30-station digital iMAC PRO lab with Final Cut Pro, Premiere, Davinci Resolve 15, ProTools, and After Effects. The program also houses a state-of-the-art podcast studio and a color correction studio offering Davinci Resolve software and hardware. 
The hands-on program also offers students a large variety of full frame and large format cameras to learn and create with. Additionally, students learn in the TV Production Studio with KVCR (local PBS affiliate).

"As an institute of higher education our academy also needs to evolve to a place of advanced study and conversation, hence the evolution to the Institute of Media Arts," said Cuny. "This incorporates all forms of media arts, that not only includes the film program but also art, music, and theater."

The IMA creates opportunities for students to participate in education, promotion and advocacy, and partners with local high schools to jump start interest in media arts. Students involved in the Institute can access internship opportunities with various media companies in the region, such as KVCR and FNX Network, to develop professional level portfolios to support career development or further education at 4-year institutions. The IMA is considered a destination training ground for students.  

Memberships are available to the IMA, which offer unparalleled access to film and filmmakers while providing essential support to Inland Southern California's vibrant cultural scene. Members enjoy privileges all year long, including unlimited free admission, private screenings and discounts on labs and other events. To become a member, visit valleycollege.edu/academic-career-programs/degrees-certificates/film-television-media/institute-media-arts.

"As we've seen through the pandemic people are turning to media arts to get through and so we at SBVC need to be the center of training and development of new and current professionals involved in film, tv, and media," said Cuny.

For more information about the Film, Television and Media program at SBVC, visit valleycollege.edu/academic-career-programs/degrees-certificates/film-television-media or contact Lucas Cuny at lcuny@valleycollege.edu. For more information about San Bernardino Valley College, visit valleycollege.edu.