The trend these days, especially during the economic downturn, is one Los Angeles film school that offers a production course curriculum that not opnly qualifies graduates for positions in the film industry, but that also for the television, music video and video industries.

Here's how this works. Industry experts pass on their experience and know-how to the Film Connection classroom and provide an exciting atmosphere where they work openly between movie sets and sound stages as the classroom. The school offers training on sets and in real life working situations. You get to be trained one-on-one by a working professional. The mentor proactively teaches both professional and technical skills, helping to bridge the gap between academia and the workplace. So when you are done, you will most likely get a job. "With the Film Connection students learn more and are better prepared to get a job. The other more expensivefilm schools just do not work. You come out under-trained, unemployed and broke," said Mars Callahan, writer, director and mentor.

Courses can be completed in half of the time of degrees obtained from some schools. Plus, no experience is required and you can start any time. Most schools have specific semesters. Some of the students even take classes part time during night or weekend sessions, so this way they can train around their current job schedule. The average course length is five to seven months, depending upon the schedule.

Locating a good school is not only about which school will provide an education that the industry will take seriously, but the cost for attendance also plays into the formula. Colleges and universities have formulas that they use -- some charge applicants by the credit hour, by clock hour, or by the semester. With fees, books and supplies, it can all add up pretty quickly.

When it comes to learning about the entertainment arts, you should always look for a film, radio or music recording school that provides loans like SallieMae. It is a good idea to look for schools that help place their graduates into good jobs. And make sure the school offers apprentice programs for the entertainment arts, with mentor teachers in each profession.