British Columbia is one of the biggest film hubs in North America. With state-of-the-art studios, competitive tax incentives, and a highly skilled workforce, B.C. has more than earned its reputation as Hollywood North. If you’re dreaming of a career in film, whether above-the-line or below-the-line, education and hands-on experience are key. Here’s your guide to film schools, workshops, and training programs to help you build skills, knowledge, connections, and a strong portfolio.
Please note these lists are not exhaustive. Research is encouraged to find the best offerings in your region.
Why Training Matters
Working in film requires equal parts creativity and technical skill. The right training helps you build the skills and confidence to thrive on set. Here’s what workshops and programs can offer:
- Hands-on experience: Practice real-world techniques and learn how a professional set operates.
- Networking opportunities: Connect with industry professionals and peers who can open doors.
- Portfolio building: Contribute to projects that showcase your talent and creativity.
- Career know-how: Learn production workflows, set etiquette, and the roles that keep a film moving
Film Schools
B.C. is home to some of Canada’s top film schools, offering everything from intensive one-year diplomas to full four-year degrees. With state-of-the-art facilities and strong industry connections, these programs provide the technical skills, creative guidance, and practical experience you need to launch a career in film.
Visit the Knowledge Hub for additional educational opportunities, and explore micro-credential programs on the DigiBC website.
- University of British Columbia (UBC) Film Production: Four-year BFA with on-set learning, equipment access, and senior projects; one of Western Canada’s longest-running programs.
- Simon Fraser University (SFU) Film: Project-based program combining technical labs with cinema studies in history, aesthetics, and theory.
- Capilano University School of Motion Picture Arts: Offers a Bachelor of Motion Picture Arts plus programs in Documentary, Indigenous Digital Filmmaking, and Costuming, taught at the Bosa Centre with professional sound stages and post-production facilities.
- Vancouver Film School (VFS): Intensive, portfolio‑driven one-year diplomas in Film Production, Writing for Film/TV/Games, Sound Design, Acting, 3D Animation & VFX, and more.
- InFocus Film School: 12‑month program built around 12 projects in 12 months with instructor mentorship and industry networking.
- Emily Carr University of Art + Design Film + Screen Arts (BMA): Studio‑based film and media degree spanning analogue to VR/AR.
- BCIT Television & Video Production Diploma: Two‑year, hands‑on training for film/TV/live events roles (writing, directing, camera, lighting, audio, editing) with practicum placements.
Workshops and Training Programs
Beyond formal education, short courses and hands-on training are a great way to build practical skills and industry knowledge. These programs range from safety certifications to creative intensives, helping you gain confidence and connections before stepping onto a set.
- Creative Pathways™ Production Assistant Training: Entry-level program teaching essential skills for working safely and confidently as a PA on B.C. sets, delivered in partnership with INFilm Skills Training.
- Film Production Assistant Micro‑credential: Short program covering MPIO, Actsafe, WHMIS, set etiquette, call sheets, and department overviews.
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Motion Picture Industry Orientation (MPIO): Set etiquette and safety orientation recognized by B.C. unions/guilds; offered via post‑secondary partners and Actsafe (virtual and in‑person sessions appear through the year).
- VFS Summer Intensives: 5‑day, on‑campus intensives across film production, acting, animation, digital design, makeup, and writing.
- The Cinematheque: Youth and student programs like Cinelab and summer filmmaking camps, plus in-school workshops focused on film literacy and production skills.
- Creative Pathways™ Inclusive Workplaces for Film + Television Workers: One day course open to B.C.-based experienced industry workers, new entrants and students who are not currently in leadership, supervisory or management roles.
Mentorship Opportunities
Mentorship can be a game-changer for emerging filmmakers, offering guidance, industry insight, and connections that accelerate your career. These programs pair provide structured support to help you grow.
- GEMS (Gender Equity in Media Society): Low-barrier workshops, mentorships, and labs for women and gender-diverse creators: Refractions Workshop Series, Genre Film Lab, Emerging TV Producers Program, Reel Talks, and more.
- Creative Pathways™ Below-the-Line Mentorship Program: This program brings industry professionals and emerging below-the-line mentee technicians and craftspeople together in a conversation-based mentorship.
- VIFF Catalyst Program: Cohort program for 15 emerging filmmakers offering a full VIFF Pass, mentorship, a professional development stipend, and 10 group sessions covering all stages of production to jump-start independent careers.
Independent Filmmaking Societies & Communities
Community-driven organizations occasionally host workshops, screenings, equipment orientations, and peer‑to‑peer learning opportunities that help emerging filmmakers grow their skills outside a formal school setting.
- Cinevic (Victoria)
- Cineworks (Vancouver)
- Filmmable (Vancouver)
- Creston Valley Film Society (Kootenay Region)
- Kamloops Film Society (Kamloops)
- Okanagan Society of Independent Filmmakers (Okanagan)
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Breaking into B.C.’s film industry is all about taking that first step, whether it’s enrolling in a film program, joining a workshop, or completing essential safety training. With world-class facilities, a thriving production scene, and countless opportunities to learn, B.C. has what it takes to launch your career in film. Explore the resources above, build your skills, and start connecting with the community.
Don’t forget to visit the Creative Pathways™ Opportunities page to find current training, mentorship, and job opportunities.
This article is updated as of January 2026.