Film Production and Media Studies

With two distinct majors offered in the department, students may choose to focus on film production, with creative and production-related career paths, or media studies, with more research-based opportunities. Classes are small allowing students who choose either major to thrive as part of a collaborative community on campus.

Theory and Practice

The Department of Film Production and Media Studies offers two distinct curricula for students focused in the separate majors offered by the department:

1. film production and
2. media studies.

In both majors, course offerings encourage theoretical and applied approaches to cultural studies, research methods and, as appropriate, production in film, video and other digital media.

Classes in the department are generally small and hands-on. Faculty and students alike appreciate and thrive in the collaborative community on campus.

Film Production Major

Students in the film production major develop an understanding of all aspects of the film and video production process while exploring narrative, documentary and alternative forms.

Utilizing state-of-the-art equipment, students gain hands-on experience as writers, producers, directors, cinematographers and editors. The program emphasizes personal expression and collaboration along with the technical and creative skills needed to succeed in a career in media production.

Faculty members in the film production major are working professionals who emphasize critical thinking and the development of ideas while offering students in-depth study of writing and production. Students graduate with a skill set that prepares them for a dynamic work environment in a highly competitive industry.

Film production is a controlled major. Please consult the Entrance to Major Requirements for information about entering the major.

Media Studies Major

Students study the role and impact of the media on society in this theory-based, research-driven major. Students explore the relationship between media and the public, analyze media messages and technologies, and examine their effects on individuals and cultures.

Potential Internships & Employers

Graduates of the film production major leave the program prepared to work as writers, producers, directors, cinematographers, sound designers and editors, and apply their education to mainstream entertainment, multi-media, public television, education, and corporate and commercial communications.

Development of analytic, creative and writing abilities allows graduates of the media studies major to pursue careers in media, government agencies and public interest groups, as well as private industries needing communications specialists. Graduates may also pursue advanced degrees.

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