What must I major in to be involved in making historical documentaries?

Question

At our local university a guy just won an emmy for making a documentary on leopards in India. He got a masters degree in Science and Natural History Filmmaking. Our university was the only one in the nation that offered that major.

I would like to do something similiar but geared more towards History instead of Natural History. Is there a major that can help me reach my career goal?

Answer 1

Its difficult to answer exactly because you haven't listed what majors your university offers, but getting into this line of work would be to get a degree in History and Filmmaking.  Art History would certainly be important as it ties in directly to culture as a visual medium.  What ever you major in, make sure to do deeper research into the people and production companies who have made significant historical documentaries.  Make your own films that demonstrate your interest and perspective and then contact those people and production companies, setting up interviews and studio visitations.  Also go to industry events (film festivals) where you can meet these people and talk to them in person.  This is important.

Answer 2

researching on history..And learning Apps like Sony Vegas..to make your video..

Answer 3

Double major in history and tv/film production.  Then add a minor of an ancient language such as latin or greek.  That way you won't make retarted documentaries like the ones on tv now, that don't tell you anything new.  I would definitely make sure to have a heavy focus on history.

Answer 4

I'd major in film.  Natural History Filmmaking seems pretty close to what you want to do.  And if you are talking about historical documentaries ala Ken Burns, then try to take some experience in doing photo and video research--how to use photo and video archives.

Even though I love history, the way that it is taught at University turned me off.  Don't let that happen to you.  You can dig out all the historical facts you need in your library, using the internet to get started.  Then find the pictures and videos to tell the story.