Film Studies Minor

Given the central role of film both nationally and internationally as an art form and a cultural artifact, it is not surprising that there is so much interest in every aspect of it across the globe. Film Studies is an interdisciplinary area that integrates elements of film theory and criticism, fine arts, communications, philosophy, English, psychology, and many other disciplines into a unified field of study. Students will learn about the history of cinema, formal methodologies of all facets of film making and criticism, and critical analysis of film. Students will learn how to actively watch and interpret films of all varieties, from different time periods and from all around the world. In addition to learning about film itself generally, students will have many opportunities to study film as: cultural anthropology, literature, philosophy, psychology, theology, political science, and much more.

For further information, contact the Film Studies Minor Advisor, Dr.Colin Helb, Department of Communications.

Student Learning Outcomes for Film Studies Minor:

Students will be able to:

• Manifest a working knowledge of the technical and technological aspects of film and video especially as they relate to film analysis and criticism.

• Exhibit a working knowledge of film theory and criticism.

• Effectively apply methods and aesthetics learned to the critical analysis of film.

• Apply knowledge of the history of cinema.

• Discuss concepts employed in the creation and analysis of film.

• Apply their knowledge of film as a cultural artifact to social, political, cultural, and ethical concerns, both national and international, both past and present.

• Analyze films as literary and philosophical artifacts.

• Analyze films for their psychological insights.

• Analyze films for their ethical, religious, and spiritual insights