Mercy University Media Studies Program Announces New Digital Cinema Production Course for Fall 2026

We are excited to share that Mercy University’s Media Studies Program is planning to launch an innovative Digital Cinema Production course in Fall 2026, led by Steven DeRosa, Senior Instructor of Cinema Studies. This new offering aims to deepen students’ understanding of cinematic storytelling and provide practical, hands-on experience with state-of-the-art filmmaking technology.

Expanding Opportunities for Creative Growth

Building upon our current curriculum, which includes introductory TV and video production courses, the Digital Cinema Production course is designed for students who have already gained foundational skills and are eager to explore the art of cinematography more comprehensively. The course will focus on key elements such as composition, lighting, shot selection, camera movement, and visual storytelling—skills vital for creating emotionally compelling films.

Why a Digital Cinema Course?

In today’s digital era, the demand for skilled filmmakers who can craft visually engaging stories is greater than ever. Cinematography is a nuanced craft that involves more than just capturing images; it’s about creating mood, atmosphere, and narrative depth through visual aesthetics. This course will empower students to develop their unique voices, experiment with different shot techniques, and understand the storytelling power of cinematic visuals.

Moreover, our commitment to fostering inclusive and transformative arts education underscores the importance of this course. Participation in creative arts has been shown to enhance critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and cultural awareness—benefits particularly meaningful for students from underserved communities. By providing access to digital filmmaking tools and training, we aim to open new pathways for diverse voices to be heard and celebrated.

Course Highlights and Learning Outcomes

Students will engage in a comprehensive curriculum that includes:

• Basics of Cinematography: Understanding composition, lighting, and camera movement.
• Visual Storytelling: Conveying narratives through imagery rather than dialogue.
• Short Screenplay Development: Articulating creative visions through writing.
• Collaborative Film Production: Gaining hands-on experience in directing, cinematography, sound, and production design.
• Post-Production: Editing and assembling films to bring creative ideas to life.

The course will culminate in a final project where each student produces a short film, offering invaluable practical experience. Success will be measured through ongoing feedback, final evaluations, student reflections, and a final showcase event to celebrate their work.

Funding and Equipment Needs

To obtain the necessary cinema production equipment for the course, Steven DeRosa, along with Media Studies Program Director Louis Grasso and Communication and the Arts Department Chair Michael Perrota, successfully secured an Instructional Enhancement Grant from the Office of the Provost. Thanks to this support, two new 4K cinema camera rigs, cinema lens kits, and digital sound recording setups have been purchased and are currently being prepared for student use. These cutting-edge tools will enable students to gain hands-on experience and produce high-quality cinematic projects.

Looking Ahead

The introduction of the Digital Cinema Production course represents a significant step forward for Mercy’s Media Studies Program. It offers students an exceptional opportunity to hone their craft, express their authentic voices, and contribute to a diverse and vibrant cinematic landscape.

We believe that investing in arts education not only enriches individual lives but also empowers communities. By nurturing the next generation of filmmakers, especially from underserved backgrounds, we aim to cultivate a more inclusive and dynamic storytelling community.

Stay tuned for updates on this exciting development and join us in supporting the future of cinematic education at Mercy University!