Excelsia College was thrilled to be co-sponsors of G’Day USA in Los Angeles over the weekend. G’Day USA fosters deeper economic ties and promotes Australian capabilities in the United States.

This year’s G’Day USA showcased the very best of Australia in the United States, kicking off with a series of events in Los Angeles. A key highlight was the annual G’Day USA Gala on Saturday which honoured Australians who have achieved significant success in the creative industries and highlights emerging Australian talent.

Celebrities turned out in full force for the dinner, which was dedicated this year in support of relief efforts for the bushfires, which has seen Australia ravaged by the worst wildfires in decades.

Guests included Naomi Watts, Liev Schreiber, John Travolta, Olivia Newton-John, Michelle Pfeiffer, Delta Goodrem, Paul Hogan and Jacki Weaver.

This sponsorship coincides with the introduction of an exciting new creative degree to the Excelsia academic portfolio: The Bachelor of Screen Production in partnership with Sydney Film School.

The Bachelor of Screen Production combines the teaching of theoretical and creative processes with practical hands-on screen production, recognising that rapid technological innovations and divergent social engagement necessitate the skills to adapt to new modes of creative expression.

Excelsia, in partnership with the Sydney Film School, offers this unique model of training that is value-driven, industry-informed, professionally sustainable and socially directed. The course has been designed for future writers, directors, cinematographers, production designers, sound recordists and designers and editors to refine their skills and become active generators of creative work.

‘This new degree is a direct response to the increasing demand of international and domestic students interested in developing a career in film,” says Peter McKeon, Excelsia College CEO. “We are pleased to announce the launch of the Bachelor of Screen Production and look forward to working closely with Simon Hunter and the Sydney Film School team on this exciting new project.”

Simon Hunter, Executive Chairman, Sydney Film School commented, ‘Sydney Film School is excited to partner with Excelsia College to provide a hands-on film production program that provides a clear path towards professional practice.’

The degree is a 144-credit point program consisting of 24 core units of study and two electives (2 years full time). The partnership with Sydney Film School has been set up with the aim of enhancing production opportunities and providing state-of-the-art studios that help with entrepreneurial projects.

Applications for the Bachelor of Screen Production are now open for September intake. Orientation week starts on Monday 21 August and classes will begin on Monday 7 September.