École Polytechnique and ENS Louis-Lumière are launching ‘Extended Cinematography‘, a new Master of Science & Technology programme

In September 2025, École Polytechnique and ENS Louis-Lumière will be launching ‘Extended Cinematography’ (XCin), a new Master of Science & Technology programme. The aim of this new high-level sandwich course is to train image specialists capable of designing tomorrow's tools for virtual production in the audiovisual and film industries, in order to mix real and virtual scenes in real time on film sets, enabling directors to preview their creative ideas immediately.

The audiovisual, film, video games and interactive media industries are constantly evolving technically, driven by innovative tools to produce increasingly dynamic visual narratives. 

In this context, the MSc&T ‘Extended Cinematography’ programme offers cutting-edge multidisciplinary training, enabling students to acquire in-depth scientific knowledge related to the virtual production sector, at the intersection of computer graphics, computer vision, augmented reality and AI. Its aim is to train image specialists capable of understanding the creative challenges of filming, and of proposing and designing specific tools to meet the needs of future virtual production. 

‘Extended Cinematography (XCin) will train ‘creative scientists’ with a unique dual skill set: solid scientific and technical knowledge, combined with practical mastery of emerging 3D and digital technologies. Combining a multi-disciplinary approach and immersion in the business world through two years of work experience, this MSc&T course will enable its students to understand the challenges of the audiovisual ecosystem and will offer tools specific to the needs of players in the sector. 

Spearheaded by research engineer Pascal Guehl for École Polytechnique, and by Vincent Lowy, film historian and director of ENS Louis-Lumière, this new course is the result of the France 2030 ‘La Grande Fabrique de l'image’ call for projects, operated by the Caisse des Dépôts and the CNC, a project initiated by the government with the aim of making France a leader in filming, image production and training in film and audiovisual professions.

Grouped together in a single class of 15 people, students will be taught exclusively in English. The course will alternate between three-month academic periods and three-month professional placements in partner companies. Students will also be required to work on a creative project of their choice to put into practice the skills and techniques acquired during the programme.