ACC-100 - Introduction to Accounting in Film

Course Description

The aim of this course is to provide a brief introduction to the fundamentals of the Alberta Film & Television industry, with an emphasis on the roles and responsibilities of each position held in the Accounting Department.

The purpose of this course is to help individuals who have an interest in exploring a career in Film & Television (with an inkling towards accounting) determine if this industry and department is a good fit for them.

101 is exclusively concentrated on union-based (signatory) productions in Alberta. The course will cover the following topics:

• The Overall Working Environment
• A General Overview of Duties, Job Categories, and Responsibilities
• Essential Skill Sets
• An Overview of the Software

Course Outline

• This offering is non-credit and therefore will not be recognized on the official University of Lethbridge academic transcript or counted toward any University of Lethbridge academic credential.
• This course is available in a completely online and asynchronous (take at your own pace) format.
• Upon completion, participants will have a much better idea of the work environment and tasks involved in working in accounting in the film industry.

Learner Outcomes

This course will cover the following learner outcomes:

Working Environment Module: Distinguish between different types of productions .Outline the phases of film production - Recognize the unions that represent each Film Industry department and position

General Overview: Understand how Film Accounting differs from accounting in other industries - Be able to identify the two distinct areas of specialization within the Accounting Department - Understand why all accountants in the Film Industry start at entry-level positions - Be able to name the four reporting documents in Film Accounting - Be able to name the most important document for the Accounting Department - Be able to name the four sections of a budget and understand what is reported in each section - Be able to identify and explain the two types of government funding

Roles & Responsibilities: Identify the role and responsibilities of each position in the Accounting Department and the commonalities between Accounting positions - Appreciate the skills required to work in the Accounting Department - Recognize differences in staffing for big budget and low budget shows Skill Sets: - Convey the critical importance of confidentiality within accounting practices - Identify the process and purpose of approvals - Understand how skills like the ability to adapt, prioritize tasks, take direction, and function under pressure are vital when following accounting processes - Differentiate and articulate the major deadlines inherent to responsibilities within the Accounting Department, showcasing an awareness of time-sensitive tasks and organizational priorities. - Understand why attention to detail is essential in coding and document filing. - Recognize whom you will have to communicate with, and the importance of being able to communicate effectively.