Film is one of the major cultural forms of the twentieth century, and its study has become an important part of a modern humanities education. At the University of Pittsburgh, the Film Studies Program provides a series of interdisciplinary courses concerning the history, aesthetics, theory, and production of cinema. A major in film studies helps students to understand and appreciate the cinematic medium and to be aware of its impact as a cultural and artistic force. It is also appropriate for students who wish to pursue careers in film teaching, film journalism, film museum curatorial work, film library and archival work, and film and television production. As part of the Film Studies Program, internships are made available to students in many of these fields.
Various options are available to students interested in film studies.
For those students who wish to make film studies the primary focus of their undergraduate program, it is possible to pursue an interdisciplinary major in film studies. For those students who wish to major in another area but desire a focus in film studies, a certificate program is available. In addition, many students choose to take elective courses in film studies as part of their undergraduate curriculum. The major in film studies requires 36 credits with a 2.00 QPA or above in all major courses. A current Category I list from which students can choose their courses is available through the Film Studies Advising Office.