Those pursuing a career in film may scoff at formal education in general and film studies degrees in particular. It’s true; you won’t get the technical skills needed to operate a camera or light a movie set from most film studies programs. However, in studying the history and theory of film and media, you will learn the nuances of cinematic communication. Here we will cover why you should consider a film studies degree and the best schools for film studies.
Film studies vs film production
Film studies and film production are related yet separate disciplines. Sometimes, universities offer programs for both production and studies. Sometimes, you get one or the other. It’s important to know the difference so you can choose the program that’s right for you.
Film studies focuses on the history and theory of cinema as an artistic medium and cultural force. It examines the historical context in which films are made as well as the formal techniques that filmmakers use to tell effective stories. While many film production programs require some engagement with film history and theory, the bulk of the curriculum focuses on practical skills like composing shots, lighting scenes and editing sequences.
Why study film?
Of course, anyone can benefit from taking a more critical look at the media that surrounds us. Creators of media, however, should have a particular investment in understanding how media functions. That’s where film studies come in. Learning about the theory and history of cinema gives us the tools to think critically about our work, in turn helping us produce more insightful and impactful content.
How thinking about film makes you a better filmmaker
If your end goal is to make movies, you might not see the value in spending time with all this theory. It’s true — a film studies degree will not give you the practical skills you’ll need to land a job on a film set. What it will give you is a deep understanding of how cinema works to create meaning for the viewer. It will help you think critically about the media you consume and, in turn, you’ll be able to tell stories more effectively.
If you’re looking for practical experience in lighting design, cinematography, directing or editing, look for a film program with a production focus. If you’re more interested in the why than the how, then film studies may be the right choice for you.
What to look for in a film studies program
Before you start researching programs and degrees, think about what you want to get out of your college experience. Having a good understanding of your personal requirements will help you narrow down your choices to find a program that truly fits both your lifestyle and academic goals. Start by considering things like location, local culture, value vs cost and the availability of financial aid.
Get to know the program and coursework
Next, spend time getting familiar with the program itself. Look at the required course and the available electives. Do they sound interesting? Are you excited to learn about the topics covered? Is anything missing? If all of the courses sound boring or irrelevant, look elsewhere.
Who teaches there?
Likewise, take a look at the professors. Your professors will become important resources for conducting research and completing assignments, especially at the graduate level. Check out what they’re researching and thinking about. Do you have any interests in common? If so, add that program to your short list.
Film studies programs in context
Finally, consider how the specific program fits into the larger department or university system. A cinema studies program at a school with a strong production track will offer a different experience compared to a humanities-based program with no production counterpart. Will you have the option to take a production course as an elective? What about a philosophy course? Or astronomy? It’s worth looking into how affiliated departments could help you meet your academic goals.
Also, check whether the department offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees. A cohesive set of programs is always a good sign. As an undergraduate, you may get more personalized attention if graduate students are around to assist professors and answer questions. As a graduate student, departments with well-developed undergraduate programs will generally have more teaching assistant positions available. These are a great way to improve learn, gain experience and confidence and earn money while in school.
Top film studies programs to consider
Now that we’ve covered what film studies is, why it matters and what to look for in a film studies program, it’s time to start researching specific programs. As you explore your educational options, make sure to look for programs in your region. There are amazing programs and professors all around the country. As always, do your own research to determine which programs best fit your personal goals and areas of interest.
To get you started, we put together this list highlighting 10 well-regarded graduate and undergraduate film studies programs in the United States. Here’s that list, in no particular order.
NYU’s Martin Scorsese Department of Cinema Studies
Degrees offered: BA/MA/PhD in Cinema Studies
The Martin Scorsese Department of Cinema Studies touts a long history of scholarship dedicated to the history, theory and aesthetics of the moving image. Coursework is both interdisciplinary and international in scope.
UC Berkeley, Film & Media
Degrees offered: BA/PhD in Film & Media
The Film & Media department at the University of California, Berkeley originally emerged from the university’s Rhetoric Department and retains an interdisciplinary approach. Programs offer rigorous engagement with the history and theory of moving images across various formats.
UC Los Angeles, Theater, Film & Television
Degrees offered: MA/PhD in Cinema & Media Studies
UCLA benefits from its proximity to Hollywood and strong reputation as a leading film school. If you want to study while staying close to the action, UCLA is a good pick.
Northwestern University, School of Communication
Degrees offered: BA in Radio/Television/Film; PhD in Screen Cultures
Northwestern offers strong undergraduate programs in Radio/Television/Film and Communication Studies, and the school’s PhD in Screen Cultures offers support and mentorship for innovative research on the history and theory of film, television, digital, and sound media.
Yale University, Film and Media Studies
Degrees offered: BA/PhD in Film and Media Studies
Yale’s Film and Media Studies program emphasizes the pervasive impact that the moving image has had on our culture. Students are encouraged to design their own course of study.
University of Washington, Cinema & Media Studies
Degrees offered: BA/MA/PhD in Cinema & Media Studies
The University of Washington offers the full gamut of Cinema & Media Studies degrees, from BA to PhD. Students gain a global perspective on the ways in which film and media reflect and influence our world.
San Francisco State University, School of Cinema
Degrees offered: MA in Cinema and Media Studies
SFSU’s MA in Cinema and Media Studies is supported by strong production programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, creating a rich ecosystem where film scholars and filmmakers work side by side.
University of Southern California, Cinematic Arts
Degrees offered: BA/MA/PhD in Cinema & Media Studies
As a top film school, USC offers Cinema & Media Studies students unique opportunities to engage with the cinematic arts. Programs focus on the artistic, political and commercial contexts of media creation and consumption.
University of Colorado Boulder, College of Arts and Sciences
Degrees offered: Critical Studies BA in Cinema Studies & Moving Image Arts
The University of Colorado Boulder offers a variety of forward-thinking degrees that allow students to explore both film theory and practice. The BA degree offers a Critical Studies track for those wishing to engage in the critical study of film as an artform.
William & Mary, College of Arts & Sciences
Degrees offered: BA in Interdisciplinary Studies, Film & Media Studies
William & Mary offers a self-directed, interdisciplinary program in Film & Media Studies that allows students to create a course of study that reflects their specific interests. The program focuses on how film and media shape cultures, societies, histories, and collective and personal identities.
The choice is yours
Any of these film studies programs will give you a deeper understanding of our media landscape. For filmmakers, film studies offers tools for telling more compelling stories. The best school for you depends on your academic goals and personal interests. No matter what program you choose, whether film studies, film production or otherwise, pursuing a degree requires drive and dedication. You only get out as much as you put in.
Formal education isn’t for everyone. Some learn best through practical experience. But if you’re someone who yearns to think deeply about cinema within an academic community, go get a degree in film studies.
