Major & Minor
Major in Film Studies
The Film Studies major applies the liberal arts tradition to contemporary image culture and emerging technologies. Courses in film history, theory, and criticism prepare students to become active, discerning, and ethical participants in a world increasingly shaped by visual media and communication.
Research-based study of American and world cinema explores the reciprocal relationship between film and the diverse cultures and historical periods from which it emerges. Through engagement with influential films and filmmakers, students develop an understanding of the connections between contemporary artistic expression and industrial society. Students also have opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge through hands-on experiences in screenwriting, cinematography, production, exhibition, and digital editing.
Students are encouraged to broaden and deepen their understanding of Film Studies through related coursework in departments such as Communication and History. While the major provides a strong foundation for advanced study and professional work in the film industry, it also offers liberal arts students versatile preparation for a wide range of career paths.
The Film Studies major requires 11 courses (33 credits):
- Introduction to Film Art (FILM2202)
- Two courses in Film history or criticism
- Two courses in Film production
- Six electives, at least two of which must be at the 3000 or 4000 level
- Senior Project in Film (FILM4400)
Students interested in majoring in Film Studies should contact the chair of the department, Aurelia Campbell.
Minor in Film Studies
The Film Studies minor enables students to develop a foundational understanding of film as a contemporary medium of communication. Its flexible curriculum allows students to design a personalized area of concentration.
The Film Studies minor requires 6 courses (18 credits):
- Introduction to Film Art (FILM2202)
- One course in Film history or criticism
- One course in film production
- Three electives in the areas of filmmaking, digital editing, scriptwriting, photography, history of film, or film criticism.
Students interested in majoring in Film Studies should contact the chair of the department, Aurelia Campbell.
A student completing a Film Major in the context of Liberal Arts will be evaluated prior to graduation on the following points before a panel of two or three faculty members:
General View of Film: Based on the initial course in Introduction to Film Art
Film Production: Intermediate grasp of sound, lighting, composition
Film Editing: Digital editing for a film production (Final Cut Pro or Avid non-linear)
History: Solid grasp of American film( feature and documentary), basic knowledge of foreign film (European, Mid-East, Latin American, or World Cinema)
Criticism: Ability to grasp nuances in script, characterization, camera work, etc.
Written Expression: Clarity and proper grammar for essay writing; structure, for screenwriting, with a focus on narrative.
Research: Ability to do scholarly research and documentation
At the same time, as part of the requirement, the Film Major necessitates a student writing a thesis, completing a full-length screenplay, or producing a short film (feature or documentary) under close supervision of an advisor.
Student Learning Goals | Measurement Process | Review/revision mechanism |
| Develop an understanding of the history of film and the major themes and filmmakers who have shaped it. | Panel evaluates student work in film history, scriptwriting and production as part of the Senior Project. | Undergrad committee assembles ratings and reports program recommendations to department annually. |
| Ability to critique technical and plot elements of a film. | Panel discusses overall preparation and career options. | |