The Salt Institute for Documentary Studies was founded in 1973 by Pamela Wood, in Kennebunk, Maine. What began as alternative education for high school students quickly grew into a professional training program focused on the art and practice of documentary storytelling. The name “Salt” was chosen by the first group of students to complete the program. It represents Maine's deep sense of place, its many subcultures, and the tenacity required to live and work off the beaten track. Over the following four decades, Salt students told the stories of hundreds of people from across Maine and New England, and the program became known for an approach to storytelling that is as thoughtful as it is rigorous. In the spring of 2016, the Salt Institute moved to Maine College of Art and launched a graduate certificate program. The Salt Graduate Certificate in Documentary Studies at Maine College of Art is a 15-week experience where motivated individuals from all walks of life come to Salt to focus on documentary storytelling, develop new skills, and build expertise. Our faculty members are working documentarians and teaching professionals who help provide a strong foundation for students to make their best work. Bring your passion, ideas, challenges, and projects; leave with a portfolio of beautifully crafted stories. Salt at MECA currently offers two tracks of study: Radio & Podcasting, and Short Film. This one-semester program takes place during fall or spring, and consists of 16 credits. Salt also offers shorter learning experiences through cs.meca.edu. Check out our workshops, webinars, intensives, and crash courses as you prepare for your Graduate Certificate experience.