The Big Question: Do You Really Need a Degree?
A lot of people aiming to work in film or games feel pressured to get a bachelor’s or master’s degree. The thinking is that if you don’t have one, studios won't take you seriously. It’s a fair worry as the film and game industries are competitive, and getting your foot in the door can feel daunting. Considering that in a lot of different industries, specific degrees are absolutely required.
But simple the truth is, most VFX and game studios aren’t hung up on whether you have a diploma. They care about your portfolio, your technical skills, your soft skills, and your ability to deliver great work.
Why Portfolios Matter More
A strong portfolio is the real key to landing opportunities in VFX or games. The creative industry works more like the trades industry, similar to carpentry compared to more academic industries. At the core, people hiring want to see what you can create in the real world, not just proof that you attended classes.
Where a BA or MA Can Help
Having a bachelor’s or master’s degree is undeniably useful if you’re looking to work in another country and need a visa. Immigration requirements often look for some level of higher education. Beyond that, higher education can also help you build a professional network. And attending a great university is still a great way to learn your trade. But once you’ve shown employers that you have the visa situation sorted, it's still all about your portfolio.
Building a Portfolio That Shines
Here are some great tips for building a quality portfolio.
Focus on Fundamentals: Even in high-tech fields like VFX or games, strong art fundamentals are important. The fundamentals vary greatly between the specific positions, so it's important that you learn what they are and master them to the best of your ability.
Keep Up to Date on Software: New software and techniques pop up all the time. Use modern techniques and tools for the jobs, though you don't always have to chase the latest shiny tool. Stick to proven and reliable techniques that are used in the industry you're looking to enter.
Show Your Best Work: Quality always beats quantity. Don't include every single school project you've done. Instead, build a specific portfolio for the position you want and make the pieces shine. Usually, 3-4 pieces are enough, assuming they are showing off a varied skill set.
Seek Feedback: Jump into online communities or industry meetups to get critiques that push you to improve. Ideally, you'll connect with industry professionals who are already experts at the job you're looking for. They will be able to feedback your portfolio better than any teacher.
Personal Thoughts on Degrees
Pursuing a degree can be a great experience if you thrive in a structured environment or want a broad-based education. You’ll get to experiment, team up on projects, and learn from seasoned mentors. But you can achieve a lot of this by taking individual courses, seeking mentorships, or learning through free resources online. The most important thing is to keep creating, keep refining, and keep potential employers what you’re capable of.
Wrapping It Up
If you’re aiming for film or games, your portfolio and hands-on experience speak the loudest. A BA or MA might help with visas or connections, but it’s not a magic ticket to a job. Focus on making your work as good as it can be, whether you pick the school route, self-study, or a combo of both. By keeping your eyes on skill development and staying open to feedback, you’ll boost your chances of breaking into these exciting industries.
