Top Reasons to Pursue a Degree in Cinema After 12th

The Indian film industry releases well over 1,600 films every year, highlighting how much content is being created across languages, genres and platforms.As this output grows, so does the need for professionals who know how to turn ideas into scenes, edit footage, handle lighting, sound, VFX and more.

If you’re someone who enjoys building stories, shaping visuals or working behind the camera, a degree in cinema after 12th grade gives you a powerful way in. It helps you dive into the film world early, test different departments and develop real skills before many others begin. Read on to find out why this path might be right for you and how to get started.

Degree in Cinema: Its Meaning & Types

A degree in cinema is a course of study that gives you an organised training in how films are made. This includes ideation, shooting, editing & final production.

Types of Degree in Cinema After 12th

Here are the most esteemed cinema degree courses to consider after graduating from 12th grade:

• B.A. (Bachelor of Arts) in Cinema: Focuses on opportunities for creative expression, storytelling and film theory, this is a degree for students who want to learn about the art and history of cinema.
• B.Sc. (Bachelor of Science) in Cinema:  Focuses on the scientific as well as technical aspects of film practice that includes working with cameras and lighting, sound engineering, fundamentals of visual effects & production technology.
• BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts) in Film Making: This is a practical, craft-based program focused on practicum film making, building a portfolio, and working on short films on day one in the program.

Also Read: Why You Should Choose B.Sc. in Cinema in 2026?

Why Should You Pursue a Degree in Cinema After 12th Class?

Before you opt for a degree in cinema, it is but natural to wonder: why study cinema after class 12? There are several reasons why you should choose to pursue it immediately after 12th grade, rather than after undergraduate studies. These include:

• Helps Build the Right Foundation Early

Starting early helps you understand both the creative and technical sides of filmmaking when your mind is already open to learning new things. You’re young, curious & ready to experiment. This is the best stage to start building your base.

• Exposure to Important Filmmaking Departments

Most students don’t know which area of filmmaking they want to specialise in. A cinema degree lets you try everything first, direction, cinematography, editing, production and more. Once you’ve experienced each department, choosing your specialisation in your master’s degree becomes much easier & more informed. 

• Helps in Developing a Strong Portfolio

Every short film, script, class project & group assignment becomes part of your portfolio. Starting early means you graduate with real work to show, something many students from other fields only start building later.

• An Early Start in a Competitive Industry

Film & media are experience-driven fields. The earlier you start, the more time you have to practise, intern, collaborate & make mistakes. This extra time gives you a real edge over people who begin their cinema journey much later.

Also Read: How to Become a Film Director: Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Best Undergraduate Cinema Course After 12th Class

Now that you know why starting cinema studies right after school can be an advantage, the next step is choosing the right programme. Among the options available, a B.Sc. in Cinema is often seen as one of the most industry-focused choices.  It offers the right blend of creativity, technology & real-world practice. 

Here’s what makes it stand out:

• Provides a well-structured, three-year foundation in filmmaking concepts
• Combines practical learning with technical knowledge
• Helps you learn how scripts are brought to life on the screen
• More technical than a general arts degree in cinema
• Builds your confidence through project-based learning

Also Read: Essential Filmmaking Skills in 2026 Recruiters Look For

Advantages of Choosing AAFT for a B.Sc. Degree in Cinema After 12th Class

Once you’ve decided to pursue cinema programme right after 12th, the next big step is picking an institute that actually helps you grow. This is where AAFT stands out. With a 30+ year legacy in creative education, it offers the kind of ecosystem where students don’t just study filmmaking, they practise it every single day.

Some main AAFT’s cinema degree advantages in India include:

• Real, industry-style projects that help students graduate with a solid portfolio reviewed by professionals.
• A complete in-house ecosystem: studios, production floors, editing suites, fashion labs & design workshops.
• Mentorship from active industry professionals who share current, practical knowledge.
• Strong placement support along with exposure through festivals, shows, events & in-house productions.
• Consistent hands-on practice across different areas of filmmaking.
• Four focused specialisations to choose from: Acting, Cinematography, Direction & Post-Production.

Also Read: Top 10 Film Direction Colleges in India 2026

Conclusion

Choosing a degree in cinema after 12th class can be a suitable career path if you have a keen interest in building a future in filmmaking. You can easily develop the required skills & gain clarity and exposure to grow in this field with the right guidance.

A well-designed programme like AAFT’s B.Sc. in Cinema helps you learn through various practical means, along with thorough guidance & industry-focused training. If you are ready to shape your creative passion into a dream, then book a campus visit today.

Must Read : Film Making Courses After 12th: Course Details, Fees, and Eligibility 2026

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