Opinions on what NLE to teach on a new BA in Film & Screen Media Production

Hi Folks,

I'm a freelance editor and documentary maker. I've been teaching FCP for a few years at Diploma level and I've been asked to give my recommendations on post-production training on a new 3 year Degree programme in Film & Screen Media Production here in Ireland. The programme is a general one with the option to specialise in Directing, Producing, Editing, Sound or VFX in the final year.

As FCP's been discontinued it doesn't make sense to teach it on the programme. I'd be interested to hear people's opinions on what they think would be the best NLE to teach students and why? At the moment my recommendation would be Media Composer on the basis that it's the industry standard and the most widely used NLE (especially among broadcasters and larger post houses) and so would give students the greatest opportunity of getting a placement as a trainee or assistant when they graduate.

Others are recommending FCPX and others Premiere Pro on the grounds that students can get up and running on FCPX more quickly than the other two and Premiere Pro on the basis that it integrates better with After Effects which they will be learning in their graphics module.

I should also say that at the moment we're thinking that in the 3rd year those who elect for editing as their specialisation will get training on whichever 2 NLEs are not taught in years 1 & 2.

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts,
DH