Overview
The Television and Video Production Diploma covers diverse production facets - scriptwriting, shooting, editing, directing, lighting, and audio mixing. From music videos to documentaries, students gain hands-on experience with industry-standard digital and HD equipment. A 4-week practicum in the media industry further enhances real-world skills.
With BCIT’s Television & Video Production diploma program, you’ll develop all of the skills necessary for a career working on film, broadcast television, live events, and video production crew. Immerse yourself in every aspect of TV and video production, including writing, directing, producing, shooting, editing, lighting, and audio mixing. Through practical, hands-on experiences on sets, in studios, and on location, you’ll learn the technical and aesthetic skills needed to tell stories visually and impact audiences around the world.
About the program
- 2-year diploma
- Graduate with a portfolio of professional work
- Experience the full spectrum of TV and video production, from music videos to documentaries
- Use industry-standard digital and HD equipment and workflows
- Produce content in creative, high-energy teams on a weekly basis
- Receive support for entering projects into film festivals or other competitions
Want more info? Check out our Program Details.
Work-integrated learning
Every full-time diploma program has a practicum component where students spend time with an industry partner (TV and radio stations; production, sports and entertainment companies). Practicums are typically 4 weeks long.
Students may also have the opportunity to enter co-op in level 4.
Who should apply for the Television & Video Production Diploma?
The Television & Video Production diploma program is right for you if you want to:
- Work behind-the-scenes, not in front of the camera
- Blend creativity with technical skills
- Work well in team environments
- Pursue a career as a director, editor, camera operator, lighting technician, or audio professional
Ready to get started with the Television & Video Production program? Visit Entrance Requirements to apply.
What grads can do
Graduates of the BCIT Television & Video Production diploma program have extensive experience writing, producing, shooting, and editing for TV and online audiences. You’ll gain many valuable skills that can lead to a wide variety of video and media job opportunities.
Take a look at Graduating and Jobs to see the types of roles Television & Video Production grads take on.
- Next up Entrance Requirements
Entrance Requirements
Application processing
Open to applications beginning October 1st (or next business day).
Entrance requirements
Applicants must meet all entrance requirements and will be accepted on a first qualified basis as long as space remains.
- English language proficiency: Category 2 – English Studies 12 (67%) or equivalent
- BCST 0060 (65%) or BCST 1160 (65%)
Recommended for success
- Attend an information session, held each month of the school year at 5:30 pm in the Broadcast Centre, Building SE10 on the Burnaby campus.
- Before beginning this program, you are strongly recommended to have:
- Proficiency in oral and written English.
- Previous studies in computer applications, media, business, and other humanities, as well as an awareness of current events.
- Completed two BCIT Broadcast and Media Part-time Studies courses that are related to television and/or video production.
- Experience in any related broadcast or digital media field, social media, or other post-secondary education.
International applicants
This program is available to international applicants. A valid study permit is required prior to starting the program.
Students enrolled in this program must complete the mandatory work component to qualify for graduation. A co-op work permit is required prior to starting the work component.
Apply to program
To submit your application:
- Include proof of meeting all entrance requirements.
- Convert all transcripts and supporting documents to PDF files.
- Have a credit card ready to pay the application fee.
Apply Now
Scheduled Intakes
September each year.
myCommunication
Within two business days of submitting your completed application, BCIT will send a message to your personal and myBCIT email addresses. All correspondence regarding your application will be posted to your online myCommunication account at my.bcit.ca. We will send you an email when a new message is posted. It is important to watch for these emails or regularly check your account online.
You can expect to receive communication concerning the status of your application within four weeks.
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Costs & Supplies
As well as textbooks and stationery, you’ll need the following resources:
- Mobile phone with voice mail (must have silent mode)
- Access to a computer with the following capabilities. Drive: SSD, CPU: 3GHz, at least 8G RAM (16G is preferred), HDMI port
- my.bcit e-mail address (may forward email to an email provider of your choice)
- Portable USB-powered hard drive for media and assignment storage – at least 500GB
- SD memory card – 32GB – rated 133x or faster (used in terms 2 through 4)
- Headphones (over-ear, or in-ear variety) with 3.5mm connector (no mobile phone headphones)
- Access to a digital camera
Recommended equipment
We recommend that you buy a laptop (please see specifications above). It will be useful for your classroom and lab projects, though you’ll also have access to BCIT computer labs. It can be a Mac or PC – you’ll learn and use software applications that work on both systems.
Access to an inexpensive camera capable of recording HD video is also valuable for training purposes. While most assignments require the use of BCIT broadcast-quality professional equipment for production and post-production, digital video cameras or digital SLR cameras can be valuable for use on some individual and group projects.
Vehicle access
You are not required to own a vehicle. However, you must have a valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle in Levels 1 through 4 in order to transport production equipment for individual and group projects.
Tuition fees
Use our tuition estimator to find tuition and fees for this program.
For more information on full-time tuition and fees, visit:
Books & supplies
Student spending above and beyond tuition depends largely on individual preferences and practices. The following estimates provide a range of spending:
Television
Level 1: $2,550; Level 2: $200; Level 3: $2,250; Level 4: $300
(General estimated cost, and subject to change)
Financial assistance
Financial assistance may be available for this program. For more information, please contact Student Financial Aid and Awards.
- Go back Entrance Requirements
- Next up Courses
Courses
Your courses in this program offer you a unique experience by focusing on the skills you’ll need to work behind the scenes in production for web videos, TV, podcasts, and other broadcasts. As part of your training, you’ll learn the most current, effective techniques in writing, directing, production, editing, and more. You’ll also create your own portfolio of work to demonstrate to your future employers and clients, including your own drama or documentary production.
Program matrix
Level 1 (15 weeks) | Credits | ||
---|---|---|---|
BCST 1101 | Media Technology Fundamentals 1 | 3.0 | |
BCST 1120 | Television and Video Production 1 | 6.5 | |
BCST 1124 | Writing for Video Production | 3.0 | |
BCST 1125 | Introduction to Visual Media | 2.0 | |
BCST 1223 | Production Planning | 3.0 | |
BCST 2207 | Introduction to Non-Linear Editing | 3.0 | |
BSYS 1620 | Computer Applications for Broadcasting | 3.0 | |
COMM 1212 | Communications for Television and Video Production | 3.0 | |
ORGB 2510 | Organizational Behaviour | 2.0 | |
Level 2 (15 weeks plus 5 week practicum) | Credits | ||
BCST 1109 | Introduction to the Media Industry | 2.0 | |
BCST 2120 | Television and Video Production 2 | 8.0 | |
BCST 2123 | Production Management | 3.0 | |
BCST 2219 | News Production Practicum | 6.5 | |
BCST 2222 | Media Technology Fundamentals 2 | 3.0 | |
BCST 2224 | Writing for Television | 3.0 | |
BCST 3318 | Non-Linear Video Editing | 2.5 | |
COMM 2212 | Production Development and Proposals | 3.0 | |
MDIA 2218 | Introduction to Motion Graphics and Visual Effects | 3.0 | |
Level 3 (15 weeks) | Credits | ||
BCST 3120 | Television and Video Production 3 | 12.5 | |
BCST 3317 | Non-Linear Audio Editing | 3.0 | |
BCST 3324 | Advanced Writing for Television | 3.0 | |
BCST 4318 | Post-Production | 3.0 | |
MDIA 3218 | Advanced Motion Graphics and Visual Effects | 3.0 | |
Level 4 (15 weeks plus 5 week practicum) | Credits | ||
BCST 4120 | Television and Video Production 4 | 13.0 | |
BCST 4419 | Industry Practicum | 6.5 | |
BLAW 3300 | Broadcast Law | 3.0 | |
BUSA 1201 | Television and Video Production Management | 3.0 | |
COMM 4412 | Communications for Employability | 3.0 | |
Total Credits: | 115.5 |
Transfer credit
Do you have credits from another BC/Yukon post-secondary school? Do you want to know if they transfer to courses here at BCIT? Check out BCIT's Transfer Equivalency Database to find out.
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- Next up Program Details
Program Details
In this program, you’ll train thoroughly for the behind-the-scenes jobs available in the growing world of video production. This includes working closely with industry professionals to learn the skills today’s employers are looking for, all to help prepare you for your dream career as an editor, video producer, film maker, and more.
Through BCIT’s Television & Video Production diploma program, you’ll prepare and deliver programming that’s broadcast weekly on Shaw TV, streamed online, and delivered through online video services. As part of earning experience in every facet of production, you’ll rotate through various roles, including writing scripts, shooting and editing, directing, lighting, and audio mixing.
Because BCIT’s first goal is to prepare you for a successful career, we regularly update and adapt our course offerings and hours to meet changing industry conditions and demands. Some classes and practicums may take place outside of normal class hours, including evenings and weekends to offer flexible training opportunities for students.
To give you even more current, relevant experience, you’ll participate in a 4-week practicum with a TV station, film studio, or media production company to learn on the job and develop connections throughout the industry. Students find practicums in communities throughout the province, across the country, and around the world!
Program length
Two years, full-time
The program runs from September to May each year.
Program delivery
In person: This program is delivered on campus.
Program location
Burnaby Campus
3700 Willingdon Avenue
Burnaby, BC
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- Next up Graduating & Jobs
Graduating & Jobs
The unique training you receive at BCIT focuses on job-relevant skills and experience so you can begin your career as quickly as possible, with the skills today’s employers need. By graduating with your own completed drama or documentary project, a professional portfolio, and the encouragement and support to enter contests, you’ll have the confidence and knowledge to help begin an exciting career.
Some job opportunities in television and video production include:
- Camera Operator
- Video Editor
- Independent Film Maker
- Media Relations Personnel
- Freelance Producer
- Wedding and Live Event Videographer and Producer
- Scriptwriter
- Production Coordinator
- Post-Production Supervisor
- Producer
Graduate employment outcomes
The BCIT student outcomes report presents summary findings from the annual survey of former students administered by BC Stats one to two years after graduation. These reports combine the last three years of available results for the 2021-2023 BCIT Outcomes Surveys of 2020-2022 graduates and for Degree 2019-2021 graduates. The reports are organized into three-page summaries containing information on graduates’ labour market experiences and opinions regarding their education. More detailed information can be accessed at the BC Student Outcomes website.
To view these results, you may need to have the Adobe Acrobat Reader installed in your Web browser.
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Faculty, Advisors & Staff
Sia Dezvareh, Program Head
Sia started his career as a sound engineer and produced music, captured and mixed sound for documentaries, TV ads, and films. As a certified ProTools operator and trainer, he also trained studio engineers and students for several years across the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and North America. But it wasn’t only sound that struck a chord with Sia; upon graduating from BCIT, he began working as a videographer, editor, live multi-cam and news director for CBC, CTV, Global TV, TEDx, and his own video production company from 2012 to the present day. When he is not busy with his hectic work schedule, you’ll likely find him on his motorcycle or counting down the days until the rainy season is over so he can hit the road again.
David Berenbaum, Instructor
Dave began his career in television volunteering for Rogers Community Cable before attending and graduating from BCIT’s Television program in 1992. After graduation, he worked at a local station in Master Control and freelanced on a variety of sets as a camera and lighting assist. Turning his focus to post-production, Dave found a home editing commercials and corporate videos eventually ending up at The Eyes studios where he eventually became Vice-President. While at The Eyes, Dave produced and directed many award-winning television series for Canadian and U.S. networks as well as supervised all aspects of post-production. Dave is now back in the edit suite cutting docu-reality and docu-drama programming while simultaneously teaching editing and production in the Television and Video Production program.
David Griffiths. Instructor
David began working in video production in 1988 as a volunteer for Shaw Cable in Prince George. He became a full-time employee of CKPG Television in 1990. In 1992, David graduated from the BCIT Television program and started working in live sports broadcasting as a Chyron operator and programmer, then moved into directing, technical directing, and broadcast engineering for several years. David has also worked in post-production for Studio Post and Imaging in Vancouver, developing skills in video compression, media authoring, graphics and animation, and editing. David has been a faculty member in the Television & Video Production program since 1999 and continues to work as a freelance editor and technology consultant for local post-production companies, and as an online editor for episodic television programs, as well as working with the Vancouver Canucks.
Ashif Jivraj, Instructor
With more than 15-years as a post-secondary instructor specializing in media production, Ashif is an accomplished educator holding a Master’s degree in Learning and Technology with a focus on education. With three decades of experience in film, video, and live event production and a passion for media creation, Ashif brings a wealth of real-world knowledge to the classroom and imparts valuable insights and experiences to his students.
Ken Kaneko, Instructor
Ken began his career in theatre, earning a BFA at UBC in Technical Theatre and Design. After a few years working around the world with a touring theatre company as a stage manager and lighting technician, Ken settled down in his hometown of Vancouver to pursue camera work in television. For more than 20 years, Ken worked as a camera operator, video editor, director, floor director, and eventually studio manager for Shaw TV before embarking on a career as an instructor at BCIT. He is most keen on the visual aspects of production, so cinematography and lighting are of particular interest. While teaching at BCIT, Ken continues to be active in the industry, particularly in sports production, as he works for the in-house production teams of the Vancouver Whitecaps, BC Lions, Vancouver Canadians, and Vancouver Canucks.
Cindy Leaney, Instructor
Cindy has worked on location across Canada, the United States, England, Northern Ireland, Argentina and Czechoslovakia. She has accumulated 100 plus hours of production credits as an executive producer, as a series producer, writer and director on multiple current affairs and magazine series, television documentaries, as well as line producer and production manager credits on movies, commercials, and short TV dramas. This includes content for Paramount/CBS, Showtime UK, CBC, NFB, CTV, Global, Bravo, MuchMusic, Fashion Television, TVO and Knowledge Network. Awards include a Silver Hugo, Chicago International Television Competition. She is a former member of the board of directors, Documentary Organization of Canada, BC Chapter; a former VP board of directors, Women in Film + Television, Vancouver and was a member of the Writers Guild of Canada for 20 years. Cindy has a BA from Simon Fraser University and is content editor & co-writer of the Producer’s Workbook 5.
Michael Moss, Instructor
Mike began his working life in pro audio sales. He has also been a DJ at the Langara College campus radio station, a roadie in the local music scene and a partner in a mobile disco business. Looking for a career in media he applied at CBC Television and spent the next 30 years working at its Vancouver studio in a variety of roles including film transfer, master control, video tape recording, switching, news editing, field audio, studio camera and as a supervising technician. Mike has worked in daily news production, on live remotes, election specials, as well as in post-production, graphic design, and audio post-production. In addition to teaching in the Television and Video Production program, Mike works as an independent media technical consultant, technical producer and editor.
Robert Nason, Instructor
Rob has worked in television production since 1962 in a range of roles including television operations technician in camera, audio and lighting, technical director, director, technical producer and manager of broadcast operations. Rob has spent time at CHSJ-TV in Saint John, CBC Halifax, CBC Toronto, CKVU Vancouver, Now TV Vancouver, CBS New York, and Eurostep in London, England. Rob has experience working in educational programming, news, music, variety, and live sports.
Bruce Thorson, Instructor
Bruce is a multimedia journalist whose past collaborations include CBC, BBC, NPR, The Globe and Mail, History and Discovery Channels. He’s worked as a journalist, writer, story producer, story editor, director and educator across film, TV, print, radio, online and podcasts. Bruce holds a journalism degree from University of King’s College and is a graduate of the Vancouver Film School. He is currently the Senior Producer at Canadaland. Bruce teaches second-year writing in the Television and Video Production program.
Sandro Licastro, Assistant Instructor
Sandro has more than 30 years of experience in media and live event production. Sandro graduated from the Television program and is highly regarded in the industry for his versatility. He’s often referred to as a “Swiss Army” professional, known for his comprehensive production knowledge and commitment to delivering superior results. Sandro is an enthusiastic member of the faculty who supports and mentors the next generation of media professionals. He eagerly tackles challenges and develops creative solutions with enthusiasm. He actively seeks new chances to learn and collaborate with others. He emphases creating a collaborative atmosphere with a blend of humor and industry expertise and encourages his students to push beyond their comfort zone to investigate and cultivate new skills and abilities.
Advisory committee
- Chair – Ken Anderson – Keslow Camera Vice President of Business Development
- Jayne Akizuki – Independent Producer
- Paul Brettell – Canucks Sports and Entertainment
- Mark Fisher – ProShow Audiovisual Vice President of Technology and Engingeering
- Heather Hawthorn Doyle – Freelance Television and Film Director
- Valerie Hlady – Global BC/Global National Supervising Director
- Daryl Litke – ACFC West/Local 2020 Unifor Business Manager
- Kim Ngo – Atomic Cartoons Line Producer
- Trish Neufeld – Freelance Television and Film Director
- Carly Plett – Freelance Director of Photography
- John Ritchie – Executive Producer/Consultant
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Contact Us
General Enquiries
Kai Mannella
Administrative Assistant
604-434-5734 | kai_mannella@bcit.ca
Sia Dezvareh
Program Head
604-432-8486 | sia_dezvareh@bcit.ca
Contact a Program Advisor with the BCIT program name in the subject line if you have a question about:
- Program selection and program planning
- Applying for transfer credit and advanced placement
- Job placement and graduate outcomes
- Student life
Special Projects
BCIT Television & Video Production looks for a limited number of projects for professional clients and organizations between September and June each year.
We train our students to correctly value the highly specialized skillsets they are developing. We do not accept requests for volunteers or other unpaid positions.
If you have a project suggestion (preferably with at least 1 month notice), please submit a Project Request form.
Questions or comments?
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