The major in film studies is scholarly, international in scope, and writing-intensive. In the lecture courses and seminars, there is often a mixed population of undergraduate majors and graduate film students. Film studies majors take workshops in screenwriting and filmmaking, but the course of study is rooted in film history, theory, and culture. The prerequisite for all classes is Introduction to the study and theory of film , offered each term and open to first-year students. Via the senior seminar, each student writes a thesis reflecting mastery of cinematic criticism which is submitted after the winter break.
Students decide upon the topic with the professor and develop the essay during the fall semester.
Since film courses tend to be popular, it is imperative that students attend the first class. Registration priority is usually given to film majors and seniors. The major in film studies requires a minimum of 36 points distributed as described below. The program of study should be planned before the end of the sophomore year. Prospective majors in film studies are advised to satisfy the prerequisites prior to their declaration as majors or before the end of their sophomore year.