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Documentary Producer

Shape stories, identities, and messages that connect with audiences.

ID: One person films another dancing in front of a blue cinderblock wall. Both are behind a wall of four cameras filming at the same time.
Photo by Scott Lindenberg. Caption: MANCC Media Specialist Chris Cameron takes video of Kotze during the process of filming Nothing’s changed except for everything.

At a Glance

Suggested Major
Studio Art

Suggested Minor
Digital Communications or General Business

Degree Level
Bachelor’s degree; portfolio and experience are important

Career Areas
Branding, communications, media

Work Settings
Agencies, companies, nonprofits, media organizations, freelance practice

Best For Students Who…
Enjoy storytelling, audience-centered thinking, collaboration, and shaping how ideas are understood

What Does an Documentary Producer Do?

Documentary Producers work at the intersection of branding, communications, media. They use creative, analytical, and collaborative skills to develop projects, services, experiences, or programs that respond to the needs of audiences, clients, organizations, or communities.

How You Build This Path

1. Build Your Arts Foundation

Develop core knowledge and practical skills through the Studio Art major, including project-based work and professional preparation.

2. Add Complementary Knowledge

Use the Communication minor to add a second area of expertise that strengthens preparation for this career.

3. Gain Experience + Build Your Next Step

Produce short documentary projects and gain experience with research, interviewing, budgeting, rights, field production, and post-production.

Skills You May Develop

Storytelling
Visual communication
Writing
Audience analysis
Collaboration
Project Management

Related Major + Minor Combinations

Studio Art + Communication  = Art Director
Studio Art + Interdisciplinary Design   = Brand Strategist
Studio Art + Communication = Content Creator

Degree & Experience Info

This career typically requires a graduate degree. 

Bachelor’s degree; portfolio and experience are important FSU graduate option: FSU offers the MFA in Studio Art.

Industries You’ll Impact

Advertising
Marketing
Media
Communications
Creative agencies

Want to learn more?

We’re here to help you take the next step.