Cinema and Media Studies

The Cinema and Media Studies program at Carleton College offers students a comprehensive exploration of the history, theory, and practice of cinematic and visual media. This interdisciplinary major provides a critical understanding of film and media as cultural forms that shape and reflect society, encouraging students to analyze diverse media texts, production techniques, and industry contexts. The curriculum combines rigorous academic coursework with hands-on experience, allowing students to engage with film analysis, media criticism, screenwriting, and digital production. Students will study a wide range of topics including narrative structures, genre conventions, audiovisual aesthetics, media technology, and the socio-political impacts of media. The program aims to cultivate critical thinking, creative expression, and technological proficiency, preparing graduates for careers across the media landscape, including film production, media criticism, film festivals, broadcasting, and further academic pursuits. Through seminars, workshops, and collaborative projects, students develop a nuanced understanding of media's role in shaping cultural identities and public discourse. The program also features opportunities for internships, research projects, and participation in film festivals, encouraging practical application of theoretical knowledge. Carleton's dedicated faculty members are distinguished scholars and industry practitioners committed to mentoring students and supporting innovative media work. By the end of the program, students are equipped with a foundation in both the critical theory and practical skills necessary to analyze and create compelling media content, fostering a lifelong engagement withfilm and media as powerful tools for storytelling, education, and social change.