Major Mondays: Business of Cinematic Arts
Major: The John H. Mitchell Business of Cinematic Arts Program (BCA) offers students a unique opportunity to complete a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in conjunction with the School of Cinematic Arts. To obtain this joint degree, students will take interdisciplinary coursework from both the USC Marshall School of Business and the School of Cinematic Arts. Who might be a suitable fit for the cohort-based program, one might ask? Students interested in the entertainment industry, the business aspect of film and entertainment, and the human relations aspect of Cinematic Arts should strongly consider applying to the BCA program. This major is open to first-year applicants.
Overview: The BCA Program provides students with the unique opportunity to gain real-world experience through internship courses with renowned companies. Additionally, the hands-on nature of the program reflects a curriculum taught exclusively by industry professionals. Students will not only be able to engage with high-quality talent in Los Angeles, but will also be exposed to the intricacies and nuances of business entertainment. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a producer, agent, director, or even as a content development executive, this program will provide support for you to accomplish your career aspirations.
Notable Info: BCA students have the opportunity to apply the knowledge gained in the classroom to actual hands-on experience, such as internships!
Past employers have included: Paramount Pictures, FOX, Universal Music Group, Creative Artists Agency (CAA), and Brillstein Entertainment Partners.
In addition to internship opportunities, BCA students interact with industry professionals, as guest speakers are brought in from the entertainment industry. Guest speakers will discuss current trends as well as industry issues that not only provide BCA students with an understanding of the future of cinema, but also with television, the Internet, and other forms of media.
Past guest speakers have included: Kevin Beggs (Lionsgate Studios TV, President), Jason Kilar (Hulu, CEO), and Jeffery Godsick (20th Century Fox, Executive Vice President of Marketing).
Unique Academic Opportunity: In addition to USC Marshall’s core coursework, BCA students will also complete coursework in the School of Cinematic Arts. These specialized business/entertainment courses will focus on topics such as entertainment marketing, media production, film, TV, and distribution in all forms, including streaming services!
Here are some examples of such courses:
CTPR 410: The Movie Business: From Story Concept to Exhibition
CNTV 467: The Future of Digital Media & the Entertainment Industry
CNTV 458: Producing and Marketing Feature Length Films
CNTV 463: Television: Integrating Creative and Business Objectives
The Student Experience: BCA students truly have the opportunity to experience business firsthand. BCA students participate in a mentorship program, alumni luncheons, socials, and even industry/studio tours. Additionally, BCA students have unique access to the SCA Job Board, which lists exclusive entertainment internships and even paid job opportunities! To prepare students for careers in business entertainment, students not only take advantage of all that Los Angeles and Hollywood has to offer, but they are also required to participate in an internship course. While working closely with the faculty member teaching the course, BCA students will identify and select an internship to pursue.
Want to Learn More? If the Business of Cinematic Arts Program truly spoke to you and left you curious to get a clearer picture, check out the following video!
Written by: Andy T. Nguyen, Senior Assistant Director - USC Office of Admission
Edited by: Simon Chow, Assistant Director - USC Office of Admission