Film and Television Studies

Program Overview

The Film and Television Studies program offers a range of exciting courses that immerse students in the theory and history of cinema and television while providing hands-on practical training in filmmaking. Students will learn to develop their ideas and see how these can manifest in artistic ways. They will have numerous opportunities for internships and collaborative video projects with other students. Film and Television Studies professors are committed to giving students individual attention, both in class and through independent studies.

Concentrations

While the program has no official concentrations, students can choose whatever aspect of videomaking that interests them—from cinematography and animation to history and theory.

Curriculum

Students begin by taking two introductory-level courses on the history of film and television. They take a film theory and a global cinema course on the intermediate level, along with other intermediate courses that might interest them—such as screenwriting, production foundations, television series, comedy, and many others. The program concludes with a capstone senior seminar and a one-credit comprehensive exam that allows students to reflect on what they have learned during their time as film and television majors.

Film and Television Studies B.A. Requirements

Admissions

One can declare a Film and Television Studies major before coming to the University of Vermont or anytime through one’s junior year.

Outcomes

The Film and Television Studies program emphasizes a broad understanding of the media industry from historical and theoretical perspectives, preparing students for a wide range of career and advanced degree opportunities.

By the end of our program, students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate a nuanced knowledge of film history, national cinemas, and theoretical principles, and apply this knowledge through the creation of motion media and/or the composition of cogent and persuasive scholarly writing.
2. Identify and explain the perspectives and practices embedded in media products across various time periods and cultures.
3. Recognize and evaluate the formal elements through which film, television, and other motion media produce meaning.
4. Implement critical thinking skills in media studies by conducting independent research and analysis.

After Graduation

Students leave Film and Television Studies prepared to work in a variety of fields. Most of our graduates go into the film and television industry, often either in New York or Los Angeles. However, graduates also work in a variety of media jobs in public service and private enterprise.