Which is Better: Diploma vs B.Sc in Cinema? Find Out Before You Apply

If you have made up your mind to pursue a career in the field of cinema, then you must look through the various courses in cinema offered by premier institutes across the country. Courses in cinema and filmmaking are offered at diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate levels. Right after your Higher Senior Secondary, you will be eligible to take admission to either a Diploma vs B.Sc in Cinema.

If statistics are to be believed, Indian cinema is expected to grow at 8.53% from 2025 to 2030, and so are the career opportunities in this field. However, to pursue a career in cinema, you must hold a relevant educational background and experience. To choose between these two courses, you must ask yourself a simple question: “Which course will take me closer to my career goals?”

To help you choose a course in cinema, AAFT offers comprehensive courses in cinematography, with the diploma and bachelor’s programs being the most popular. By taking admission to AAFT, you can get a chance to learn from distinguished professionals and gain an understanding of the art of visual storytelling, including camera work, lighting, and composition. Courses in cinema offered by AAFT are well-structured and have strong placement records.

To understand the differences between the Diploma vs B.Sc in Cinema Course, including their course structures, career opportunities, average salaries, and more, please keep reading.

Must Read – B.Sc. in Cinema: Course Fees, Eligibility, and Career Scope Explained

Diploma vs B.Sc in Cinema Course Comparison

The course structure for a Diploma in Cinematography and a Bachelor’s degree in Cinema varies to a large extent. Diploma courses usually last for one year, whereas a bachelor’s or undergraduate (UG) degree typically lasts for three years.

Here is the detailed difference difference Diploma Cinema and degree B.Sc Cinema:

Particular	AAFT Diploma in Cinema	AAFT Bachelor’s in Cinema
Course Duration	1 year	3 years
Course Focus	Practical Learning	Theoretical and Practical Knowledge
Career Scope	Quick Job Placement	Wider Career Opportunities
Average Fees	INR 2,00,000	INR 8,10,000
Average Salary	INR 2.5 LPA	INR 3.5 LPA
Eligibility Criteria	Passed Class 12th from a recognized board	Passed Class 12th from a recognized board

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

Diploma in Cinema: Courses Offered and Syllabus

Now that you have an overview of the major difference between a Diploma vs B.Sc in Cinema course, you can have a look at the detailed course outline for both these courses, and pick the one that interests you more:

Course	Topics Covered
Diploma in Post-Production	History & Development of Editing in Films and TVFundamentals and Elements of Sound Recording in Films and TVSound Effects, Dubbing, and Acoustics in ProductionEditing for fiction, non-fiction, and music videosDirection for Film Production Processes
Diploma in Cinematography	Fundamentals of PhotographyElements of Video ProductionLighting in Film and TV ProductionFeedback Session
Diploma in Film and TV Production Direction	Introduction to the elements of a screenplayLearning how to develop a screenplayLearning about cinematography and lighting techniquesUnderstanding the different aspects of post-productionLearning to develop products for film and TVLearning different techniques of editing and sound recording for film and TV
Diploma in Filmmaking	Fundamentals of ActingBasics of CinematographyVideo Editing FundamentalsScript Writing for Films

Bachelor’s in Cinema: Courses Offered and Syllabus

As opposed to a diploma course in cinema, a B.Sc in Cinema is much more comprehensive and detail-oriented. During this three-year UG course, you will get a chance to choose one specialisation that interests you the most. Here is a detailed outline of the topics covered in a bachelor’s degree:

Course	Topics Covered
Bachelor’s in Cinema (Specialisation in Acting)	Introduction to the Basics of ActingLearn Art Forms and Cultural StudiesIntroduction to Indian CinemaIntroduction to Cultures and Art FormsIntroduction to Contemporary CinemaPortfolio and Showreel
Bachelor’s in Cinema (Specialisation in Cinematography)	Acting & PresentationHistory of Indian & World CinemaProduction I- Concepts of Blocking, Composition, and ContinuityDigital Photography – Theory & PracticeTechnique of Screenwriting –IElements of Editing – Theory & Practice
Bachelor’s in Cinema (Specialisation in Direction)	Introduction to FilmmakingIntroduction to the Elements of Film and TVIntroduction to Indian CinemaExploring the Cultural Advantage in FilmmakingIntroduction to Contemporary CinemaPortfolio and Showreel
Bachelor’s in Cinema (Specialisation in Post-Production)	Introduction to the Basics of Post-ProductionEvolution of Cinema During World War I and IIIntroduction to Indian CinemaIntroduction to Cultures and Art FormsIntroduction to Contemporary CinemaPortfolio and Showreel

Must Read – Why You Should Choose B.Sc. in Cinema in 2026?

Diploma vs B.Sc in Cinema Course: Career Opportunities and Salary

To choose between a Diploma vs B.Sc in Cinema, you should consider factors like career opportunities, salary, and scope. Both courses can help you climb ladders in the film industry; the difference just lies in what you want.

With a diploma course in cinema, you can enter the workforce quickly and start earning. It offers practical training and hands-on experience to help you develop the skills needed to advance in this industry. However, with a B.Sc in Cinema, you will get an opportunity to get a detailed insight into the world of cinema, thus broadening your perspective and knowledge base.

Some popular jobs after a diploma in cinema can land you as a Camera Assistant, Junior Cinematographer, Lighting Assistant, Production Crew Member, and other such roles. The salary for these job profiles can range from INR 2 to 3 LPA. However, with a bachelor’s degree, you can end up working as a Cinematographer, Assistant DOP, Camera Operator, Editor, Director, and other similar roles, with a salary of INR 3 to 4 LPA.

With experience and skills, you can always level up your job profile and pay in the film industry. Pursuing a course in cinema from a prestigious university will enable you to fetch better placement opportunities and job offers. AAFT had an incredible placement rate of 89% for the 2024-25 academic year. The average package offered to Cinema students at AAFT increased to INR 3 LPA, with the highest package reaching an astounding INR 12 LPA.

Must Read: Cinematography Course After 12th in 2026: Career Path, Fees & Job Opportunities

Begin Your Cinematography Journey at AAFT

To make the right decision while choosing between a B.Sc Cinema vs a Diploma in Filmmaking in India, you should compare their course curriculum, job opportunities, and ROI by comparing the course fees and average salaries. If you are looking to enroll in a cinematography course in the upcoming academic session, you can consider AAFT.

AAFT offers comprehensive and well-structured B.Sc in Cinema and Diploma in Filmmaking courses in India. These courses help you develop technical expertise and acquire the theoretical knowledge necessary to become a successful cinematographer. During your course, you can get to work with experienced professionals and operate equipment, which will teach you how the industry works.

Read Also : Top Reasons to Pursue a Degree in Cinema After 12th

FAQs on Diploma vs B.Sc in Cinema