COURSE CURRICULUM

The School of Cinematic Arts at DePaul University provides students with strong industry exposure, professional mentorship, and hands-on filmmaking opportunities that closely mirror real-world production environments. A key example of the program’s success is its alumni network, including professionals like Alexis Auditore, who was part of the school’s first graduating class and is now Director of Physical Production for Marvel Studios Streaming. Auditore has worked on major productions such as WandaVision and Loki, and previously contributed to major films like Thor and Black Panther, showing how the program prepares students for advanced roles in the entertainment industryStudents learn from experienced faculty members who bring real industry practice into the classroom. Faculty such as Jose Soto, Brian Zahm, Shayna Connelly, and James Choi contribute expertise in screenwriting, experimental film, directing, and independent cinema. Their work spans international festivals, streaming platforms, and professional film circuits, giving students access to a wide range of creative and professional perspectives.A major strength of the program is its access to professional facilities, especially the nearly 60,000-square-foot production space at Cinespace Chicago Film Studios. This facility allows students to train in a real studio environment alongside active film and television productions, using industry-standard tools and workflows.Students also benefit from immersive programs such as the LA Quarter, where they spend ten weeks in Los Angeles studying on a studio lot and completing internships with entertainment companies. Other opportunities include the Visiting Artists Series, which brings industry professionals to campus for talks and screenings, and the Premiere Film Festival, where students present their work and receive feedback from industry judges.Additional support includes access to production resources like equipment centers, casting assistance, and permitting help, along with hands-on learning through Project Bluelight, which focuses on collaborative film production. Together, these experiences prepare students for careers in film, television, and digital media industries.