Film

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film at Simon Fraser University offers students a comprehensive and immersive education in filmmaking, critical analysis, and storytelling. Designed for aspiring filmmakers, directors, screenwriters, and media artists, this program provides a multidisciplinary approach that combines practical hands-on experience with theoretical knowledge. Throughout the degree, students engage in intensive coursework that covers various aspects of film production, including film history, theory, screenwriting, cinematography, editing, sound design, and digital media. The program emphasizes the development of a strong creative voice, technical skills, and critical thinking necessary to succeed in the dynamic field of film and media arts. Students have opportunities to participate in collaborative projects, film screenings, internships, and industry events that foster real-world experience and professional networking. The curriculum is structured to encourage experimentation and innovation, enabling students to explore diverse genres, styles, and media formats. Additionally, students can take advantage of state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, including editing suites, sound studios, and filming spaces, supported by faculty who are active professionals in the field. The program's goal is to equip graduates with the artistic, technical, and scholarly foundation needed to pursue careers in filmmaking, television, digital media, and related industries or to continue advanced studies in film and media arts. Graduates emerge as well-rounded artists capable of contributing creatively and critically to the cultural landscape, equipped with the skills necessary to adapt to the evolving media environment and to make meaningful contributions to the world of film and visual storytelling.

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film at Simon Fraser University offers a comprehensive and immersive curriculum designed to equip students with the essential skills, knowledge, and creative vision necessary for a successful career in the film industry. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, providing students with opportunities to engage in all aspects of filmmaking, including directing, screenwriting, cinematography, editing, production management, and post-production techniques.

Students will explore the history and theory of film to develop a critical perspective on cinematic art and its cultural significance. They will participate in hands-on projects to produce original short films, documentaries, and experimental works, allowing them to apply learned techniques in real-world settings. The curriculum fosters collaborative work, encouraging students to develop strong teamwork skills essential for the dynamic environment of film production.

The program features state-of-the-art facilities, including digital editing suites, sound studios, and production equipment, giving students direct access to industry-standard tools. Faculty members are experienced professionals and scholars dedicated to mentoring students and helping them refine their unique artistic voices. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to experiment with different genres and styles, fostering innovation and originality in their work.

In addition to technical training, the program emphasizes storytelling, visual literacy, and ethical considerations in filmmaking. Students will have opportunities to participate in industry internships, film festivals, and collaborative projects with local theater companies and media organizations, ensuring practical experience and industry connections. Upon graduation, students will be well-prepared to pursue careers as filmmakers, screenwriters, cinematographers, editors, producers, or to further their education in graduate programs.

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film at Simon Fraser University aims to cultivate creative thinkers, competent practitioners, and articulate storytellers who can contribute meaningfully to the diverse field of cinema and media arts.

Program Requirements for Bachelor of Arts in Film at Simon Fraser University:

To complete the Bachelor of Arts in Film program, students must fulfill a combination of core courses, electives, and a capstone project. The program emphasizes theoretical knowledge, critical analysis, and practical skills in filmmaking, film studies, and media production.

Students are required to take a set of foundational courses in film theory, history, and criticism, which typically include Introduction to Film Studies, History of Cinema, and Film Analysis. These courses provide a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of film art and industry practices. Alongside theoretical courses, students must complete core production courses, such as Screenwriting, Digital Filmmaking, Editing, and Cinematography, to develop technical skills necessary for film production.

Elective courses allow students to explore various aspects of film and media, including topics like Documentary Filmmaking, Animation, Sound Design, and Modern Media. Students are encouraged to choose electives based on their interests and career goals to build a well-rounded skill set.

A major project or capstone, such as a short film, documentary, or research paper, is mandatory to demonstrate mastery of the field and integrate learning experiences. In addition, students are typically required to participate in film labs, workshops, and internships if available, to gain practical industry experience.

Students must also complete a certain number of credits in related disciplines such as Media Arts, Communications, or Visual Arts, to broaden their interdisciplinary understanding. Academic advising and registration prerequisites ensure students progress effectively through the program.

The program duration is usually four years for full-time students, and students must maintain a minimum GPA as specified by the university to remain in good standing. Overall, the program aims to produce graduates equipped with analytical, technical, and creative skills ready for careers in film production, film criticism, media management, or further postgraduate study.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Film program at Simon Fraser University offers students a range of financing options to support their educational pursuits. Undergraduate students enrolled in the program can access several financial aid opportunities, including government-sponsored loans, including Canada Student Loans and Provincial Grants, which provide essential funding for tuition fees and living expenses. Additionally, the university itself offers internal scholarships and bursaries specifically targeted at film students, recognizing their unique creative talents and academic achievements. These awards often require applicants to demonstrate artistic merit, academic excellence, or financial need.

Students are encouraged to explore external scholarship programs, many of which are available through arts foundations, private donors, and industry organizations dedicated to supporting emerging filmmakers. The university’s financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance on eligibility criteria, application processes, and deadlines for these awards. Furthermore, part-time work opportunities on campus, including positions related to media production, event support, and administrative assistance, enable students to supplement their income while gaining relevant experience.

For international students, additional funding avenues may include study permits that allow work during the semester and access to federal and provincial international student scholarships. The university also offers special financial planning workshops aimed at helping students budget effectively and access emergency funding if unforeseen circumstances arise.

Graduate film students can also benefit from fellowships, research assistantships, and teaching assistant positions that are often available through the university’s graduate programs. These positions provide stipends and tuition waivers, enhancing the financial stability of students pursuing advanced degrees in film.

Overall, while the specific details of financing options can vary year to year, Simon Fraser University’s comprehensive financial aid framework aims to make film education accessible and affordable, supporting students in developing their artistic and technical skills without undue financial burden.

The Bachelor of Arts in Film at Simon Fraser University offers a comprehensive exploration of the art, technology, and history of cinema. This program is designed to provide students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to understand and engage with film as an artistic and cultural form. Students have the opportunity to study a wide range of cinema-related topics, including film theory, history, production techniques, screenwriting, and critical analysis. The curriculum emphasizes both academic study and hands-on experience, fostering skills in visual storytelling, editing, directing, and producing.

The program typically includes coursework that covers the history of film from its inception to contemporary cinema, exploring various genres, film movements, and cultural contexts. Students are encouraged to analyze films critically, understanding the socio-political influences and technological advancements that have shaped the industry over time. Practical components may involve workshops and projects where students create their own films, work on storyboarding, editing, and sound design, enabling them to develop a diverse skill set relevant to careers in film production, media arts, and related fields.

The program often benefits from SFU’s strong connections with the industry, providing students opportunities for internships, collaborative projects, and access to state-of-the-art production equipment. Faculty members are typically experienced practitioners and scholars in film studies, cinema production, and media arts, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education rooted in current industry practices and academic research.

Graduates from the Film program at SFU have pursued careers in various sectors including filmmaking, television production, film criticism, media arts, and academic research. The program prepares students not only for professional work within the industry but also for graduate studies in film, media studies, or related areas. It emphasizes critical thinking, creative expression, and technical competence, equipping students to contribute meaningfully to the evolving landscape of media and visual storytelling.

Overall, the Film program at Simon Fraser University aims to cultivate informed, innovative, and critically engaged filmmakers and media practitioners who are capable of analyzing and producing compelling cinematic works. The university’s diverse and inclusive academic environment encourages students to explore different perspectives and develop their unique voice within the global film community.