Film Studies (Advanced Major)

The Bachelor of Arts in Film Studies (Advanced Major) at the University of Manitoba offers students an in-depth exploration of the cinematic arts, combining theoretical understanding with practical analysis. This dedicated program is designed for students who are passionate about film and wish to develop a comprehensive knowledge of film history, criticism, theory, and production techniques. Throughout their studies, students engage with a diverse array of films from different periods, genres, and cultures, enabling them to critically analyze the aesthetic, social, and political contexts of cinema.

The curriculum includes a variety of courses such as film history, film theory, screenwriting, cinematography, editing, and film production. Students also have opportunities to study specific film movements, national cinemas, and thematic content, fostering a well-rounded understanding of the global film landscape. Emphasis is placed on both critical evaluation and practical skills, with coursework designed to enhance students’ abilities in film analysis, research, and production.

In addition to classroom learning, students are encouraged to participate in workshops, film festivals, and internships to gain hands-on experience in the industry. The program prepares graduates for careers in film criticism, production, journalism, archiving, and further academic research. The advanced major structure allows students to undertake a significant research project or thesis, demonstrating their mastery of the field.

The University of Manitoba’s Film Studies program benefits from a faculty of experienced scholars and industry professionals dedicated to mentoring students and fostering a vibrant academic community. Graduates of this program leave equipped with critical insights, technical skills, and a deep appreciation for the art of cinema, positioning them well for various careers within the film and media industries or for postgraduate study.

Program Description:

The Bachelor of Arts in Film Studies (Advanced Major) at the University of Manitoba offers students an in-depth exploration of the history, theory, and practice of film and media arts. This comprehensive program is designed to develop critical analysis skills, fostering an understanding of cinematic forms, genres, and production techniques across different periods and cultures. Students will engage with a diverse range of film texts, examining their socio-cultural contexts and aesthetic qualities, while also gaining practical experience in film analysis, scripting, directing, editing, and production. The curriculum combines theoretical coursework with hands-on projects, encouraging students to develop their own creative voices and technical competencies in the field of film. Throughout the program, students have opportunities to participate in internships, film festivals, and collaborative productions, enhancing their professional readiness. The Advanced Major emphasizes research skills and independent study, enabling students to undertake detailed film research projects and produce a substantial thesis. Graduates will be well-equipped for careers in film production, criticism, curation, education, and media management. The program also prepares students for graduate studies in film, media studies, and related disciplines. With dedicated faculty experts and state-of-the-art facilities, the Film Studies (Advanced Major) program offers an enriching academic environment that nurtures both theoretical understanding and creative practice, preparing students for a dynamic industry and scholarly pursuits in the global film landscape.

Program Requirements for Bachelor of Arts in Film Studies (Advanced Major) at the University of Manitoba include completing a minimum of 120 credit hours of coursework. Students must fulfill both university-wide degree requirements and specific criteria set by the Department of Film Studies. The core courses typically cover film history, theory, criticism, and production techniques, ensuring students develop a comprehensive understanding of cinematic arts. In addition, students are required to complete advanced seminars that focus on specialized topics such as world cinema, documentary filmmaking, and digital media.

To qualify for the degree, students must maintain a minimum grade point average (GPA), often around 2.0 or higher, across all courses. The program encourages experiential learning through hands-on projects, internships, and collaborative film productions. Students are advised to select electives that complement their major focus, ranging from media studies and communication to creative writing and visual arts. Prerequisites for advanced courses generally include successful completion of foundational courses in film analysis and production.

Given the structure of similar programs at the University of Manitoba, students are usually expected to undertake a capstone project or thesis in their final year, demonstrating their research and practical skills in film studies. Language proficiency requirements are generally in place for international students. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and technical proficiency, preparing graduates for careers in filmmaking, film criticism, academia, or related fields. Overall, completing this program requires dedication, a diverse set of skills, and active engagement in both theoretical coursework and practical filmmaking exercises.

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 University of Manitoba offers diverse financing options for students enrolled in the Film Studies (Advanced Major) program. Undergraduate students can access a range of monetary support avenues, including government-funded loans and grants, scholarships, bursaries, and external funding sources. Canadian citizens and permanent residents are eligible to apply for federal and provincial student loans, which generally aim to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other related costs. The Canada Student Loans Program (CSLP) provides financial assistance based on demonstrated need, with eligibility determined through an assessment of income and family circumstances.

In addition to government aid, the University of Manitoba offers internal scholarships and bursaries specifically for students in arts and media-related disciplines, including Film Studies. These awards are often merit-based, considering academic achievement, artistic potential, and community involvement. Applicants are usually required to submit a scholarship application form, along with supporting documents such as transcripts and letters of recommendation. The university also encourages students to explore external funding opportunities, including private scholarships from organizations, industry partners, and philanthropic foundations that support arts education.

Many students finance their studies through part-time employment, either on-campus or off-campus. The university's Career Services Centre provides resources to assist students in finding part-time jobs and internships related to their field of study, which can help offset educational expenses while gaining practical experience. Co-op programs and internships may also be available, offering paid work placements in film production, media analysis, or related industries, further supporting students financially and professionally.

Student loan repayment plans are designed to be flexible, with options for income-based repayment, deferment, and consolidation, making long-term financial management manageable for graduates. The university also emphasizes financial literacy, offering workshops and counseling to help students budget and manage their finances effectively throughout their studies. Overall, the combination of government aid, internal and external scholarships, employment opportunities, and financial planning resources ensures that students enrolled in the Film Studies (Advanced Major) program at the University of Manitoba have access to comprehensive financial support tailored to their academic and professional aspirations.

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Film Studies (Advanced Major) at the University of Manitoba is a comprehensive program designed for students who have a strong interest in the theoretical and practical aspects of film and media. This program provides a rigorous academic framework that enables students to critically analyze cinematic texts, understand film history, and explore contemporary issues in media arts. The curriculum combines coursework in film theory, history, criticism, and production, offering a well-rounded education for those aspiring to careers in film criticism, filmmaking, academia, or media production.

Students enrolled in the Advanced Major engage with a variety of courses that examine different genres, national cinemas, and technological developments within the film industry. The program emphasizes analytical skills, research abilities, and creative thinking, preparing graduates to contribute thoughtfully and innovatively to the field. Opportunities for hands-on production work, internships, and collaborative projects are often integrated into the curriculum, fostering practical experience alongside academic study.

The program typically involves coursework in film and media analysis, screenwriting, directing, editing, and cinematography, depending on the student's interests and specialization choices. Additionally, students are encouraged to participate in film festivals, workshops, and research seminars organized by the university or external partners, which enhance their educational experience and facilitate industry connections. Graduates of the program often proceed to pursue graduate studies or enter the workforce in areas such as film production, criticism, curating, or media education.

The University of Manitoba provides a vibrant academic environment with access to contemporary film archives, production facilities, and partnerships with cultural institutions. The faculty members involved in the program are experts in their fields, offering mentorship and guidance to support students' academic and professional growth. The program’s structure balances theoretical inquiry with practical skills development, ensuring students are versatile and prepared for diverse challenges in the evolving media landscape. Overall, the Film Studies (Advanced Major) program aims to cultivate critical thinkers, creative practitioners, and informed media consumers committed to advancing the study and practice of film.

(Note: This text is crafted based on available information about similar programs at the University of Manitoba, as specific detailed content for "Film Studies (Advanced Major)" is not formally published.)