AFTRS and CIT extend pathway for the next generation of screen storytellers

Published: 09 Sep 2026

For aspiring screen and media professionals studying at Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT), Mia Channing's journey offers a glimpse of what could come next.

After completing CIT's Diploma of Screen and Media, Mia was one of three students to enter Year 2 of AFTRS’ three-year Bachelor of Arts Screen: Production through a pathway partnership between CIT and the Australian Film Television and Radio School (AFTRS). The success of that pilot has now led to the partnership being extended for a further two years, creating new opportunities for CIT graduates to continue their screen education at Australia's national screen and broadcast school.

The pathway recognises the skills and knowledge developed through the CIT diploma and enables successful graduates to apply for entry directly into the second year of the AFTRS BA.

For Mia, an aspiring documentary filmmaker, the decision to continue her studies at AFTRS was a natural next step.

"I chose AFTRS to further develop my skills and deepen my understanding of filmmaking. I thought AFTRS would be a great place to build on the learning and experience from CIT and in the industry," she said.

“At AFTRS we get to work on various projects and I have had the chance to explore many aspects of filmmaking that were new to me, and I am excited to keep developing these skills throughout the rest of the course.

“Last semester I had the opportunity to write and direct a short documentary for SBS, collaborating with my peers across areas such as VFX projections and animation, which I haven’t worked with previously. At the moment we are developing our episodic productions.”

Mia has embraced the opportunity to work alongside students from a range of creative disciplines while developing these new skills and industry connections.

"AFTRS has given me the opportunity to connect with likeminded peers. The Cine Sorority group has been a space for creativity and collaboration where I get the opportunity to experiment in camera and lighting workshops."

Mia credits her time at CIT with giving her the practical foundation and confidence to make the transition.

"The Diploma of Screen and Media focuses on hands-on, project-based learning, which helped me develop my technical filmmaking skills and prepare me for my first job in industry,” she said.

"CIT introduced me to a wide range of practical experiences, including working on live multi-camera productions, and gave me the opportunity to create my first documentary. It was a great place to get started with developing my skills, confidence and knowledge."

The pathway's first cohort has demonstrated the value of stronger connections between vocational and higher education, allowing students to build on existing skills while continuing to develop as creative practitioners.

Shaun Haidon, Director, Technology and Design College at CIT, said the early success of the program had reinforced the benefits for students.

"It's fantastic seeing our Diploma of Screen and Media students already making the most of this pathway with AFTRS," Mr Haidon said.

"Our students gain industry-ready skills in our studios and production environments, and it's incredibly valuable for them to be able to pursue further studies at the national cultural institute for film, television, and radio. Continuing our partnership with AFTRS is a fantastic outcome for prospective students, potential employers, and the broader Canberra community."

AFTRS BA Course Convenor Dr Marty Murphy agreed the success of the first cohort had demonstrated the value of the partnership.

"The transition of the first three CIT students into Year 2 of the Bachelor of Arts Screen: Production tells a positive story,” he said. “They arrived with a good baseline of practical skills, a professional attitude and a genuine willingness to collaborate.

"They have integrated well into their cohorts and have become valued contributors to creative teams across projects and productions. We would definitely encourage other CIT graduates to apply to join our current first year students when they enter Year 2 of the BA in 2027.”

While Mia’s intention is to work on documentaries, telling stories of “humanity and perseverance, exploring people's connection with the world around them and each other”, she is open to all future possibilities.

"I particularly enjoy directing and cinematography,” she said. “However, I remain intrigued by all aspects of filmmaking, from writing to sound, and I feel that AFTRS is the place where I can continue to explore and experiment with these different disciplines.

"I admire that AFTRS is a space that develops filmmakers who are curious about the world and passionate to tell the stories that matter most.”

Applications for the 2027 intake are now open to eligible CIT Diploma of Screen and Media graduates and close on 7 October. Successful applicants may receive recognition for prior learning and enter directly into Year 2 of the AFTRS Bachelor of Arts Screen: Production.