Film Studies

The Film Studies program at Columbia University offers an interdisciplinary approach to the analysis and appreciation of cinema as a vital form of artistic and cultural expression. This program is designed for students who are passionate about film theory, history, and criticism, providing them with comprehensive knowledge of the evolution of cinema from its inception to contemporary practices. Students explore a wide range of genres, styles, and national cinemas, engaging with critical methodologies and theoretical frameworks that deepen their understanding of film as an art form and social phenomenon. The curriculum includes courses on film history, aesthetics, genre studies, and critical theory, as well as practical filmmaking workshops for students interested in the technical aspects of cinema production. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, screenings, and project work, students develop analytical skills vital for careers in academia, film criticism, curation, and media industries. The program emphasizes the importance of diverse perspectives, encouraging students to examine issues of race, gender, politics, and technology within the context of global cinema. Collaboration with other departments and access to Columbia’s extensive film archive and screening facilities enrich the academic experience, fostering a vibrant intellectual community. Graduates of the Film Studies program at Columbia University are well-equipped to pursue advanced academic research, contribute to media industries, or engage in cultural and educational initiatives related to film. With its rigorous coursework, distinguished faculty, and dynamic cultural environment, the program provides a comprehensive foundation for understanding and shaping the future of cinema in an increasingly visual world.

• I. FILM R 6160 Pro-Seminar in Film History - Semester One (Fall)
• II. FILM R 6130 Pro-Seminar in Film Theory - Semester Two (Spring)
• III. FILM R 8990 Thesis Prep Seminar - Semester Three (Fall)
• IV. FILM R 9001 Graduate Thesis Research - Semester Three (Fall)

Students take 30 credits of coursework over three semesters (full-time) or five semesters (part-time). See below for Residency requirements.
Masters Thesis: In the third semester, students will complete a 50 to 60-page written work of original scholarship on a topic chosen in consultation with the faculty.
Eligibility: The Master's Degree in Film Studies is designed for students who have already completed significant undergraduate or graduate work in the study of film or associated fields. Note: Students in the MA Program in Film Studies are not eligible to enroll in directing, screenwriting or film production classes.
Residency: All Masters of Film Studies candidates who have completed 30 credits of coursework and have not completed the degree requirements may register for one additional semester of MA Extended Residence. Students must complete all course and degree requirements in no more than three semesters (full-time) or five semesters (part-time). Any extensions to these deadlines (a) must be approved, in advance, by the program head and (b) may carry additional fees. For changes to these requirements, or for more specific information, please contact the School of the Arts Admissions Office at admissions-arts@columbia.edu.

Required MA Courses

Semester One (Fall)

I. Pro-Seminar in Film History: An introduction to issues and cases in the study of cinema century technologies. This class takes up the definition of the historiographic problem and the differences between theoretical and empirical solutions. Specific units on the history of film style, genre as opposed to authorship, silent and sound cinemas, the American avant-garde, national cinemas (Russia and China), the political economy of world cinema, and archival poetics. A unit on research methods is taught in conjunction with Butler Library staff. Writing exercises on a weekly basis culminate in a digital historiography research "map" which becomes the basis of a final paper.

Semester Two (Spring)

II. Pro-Seminar in Film Theory: Begins with a general overview of current developments in film theory-issues, for example, related to cultural studies, the emergence of new media, Asian film theory, new formulations of film spectatorship and then proceeds to a close examination of one or two contemporary issues in film theory. Close readings of selected texts, with frequent in-class presentations of material by the students themselves.

Semester Three (Fall)

The final semester of study for MA Film Studies students is dedicated to researching and writing the Master's Thesis. Students may not enroll for additional course work during this final term as they are expected to work full-time on their thesis project.
III. Thesis Prep Seminar: The third semester of the program is devoted to the writing of a Master's Thesis on a topic approved by faculty. In this course students present their works-in-progress and receive commentary and criticism.
IV. Graduate Thesis Research: Students register for this course to receive academic credit for the research done for the thesis project.

Requirements

• The Test Of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) exam meeting the minimum score of 100 on the online portion or 600 on the written portion. Information about the TOEFL can be found at the ETS TOEFL website.
• Uploading an unofficial transcript to your application showing a degree obtained from an undergraduate or graduate institution where English is the primary language of instruction.
• Uploading an unofficial transcript to your application showing at least one year of full-time advanced study at an institution where English is the primary language of instruction in addition to your unofficial undergraduate transcript. *The School of the Arts reserves the right to verify your English proficiency through an interview*.

The Film Studies program at Columbia University primarily funds its students through a combination of institutional financial aid, scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships. Columbia University offers need-based financial aid to eligible students, which is determined through the FAFSA and CSS Profile applications. Undergraduate students in the program can apply for merit-based scholarships that recognize academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, or special talents related to film and media studies. Graduate students, including those pursuing advanced degrees such as the Ph.D. or master's programs, are often eligible for research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and departmental fellowships that provide stipends and tuition waivers.

The university’s financial aid packages are designed to meet demonstrated financial need, and many students rely on federal and state loan programs to supplement their funding. For international students, Columbia provides limited merit-based scholarships, but they are highly competitive; thus, many international students seek external funding sources or private scholarships to finance their studies in Film Studies. The university also encourages students to pursue external fellowships, grants, and sponsorship opportunities in arts and media fields, which can augment their financial resources.

Additionally, students involved in research projects or production in film and media may find opportunities for paid internships or stipends provided through university partnerships or alumni donations dedicated to supporting students' professional development. Some students also secure funding through industry partnerships, summer grants, or external foundations that support emerging filmmakers and media scholars. Overall, the financing options for students in Columbia’s Film Studies program are varied, combining university aid, external funding, and personal resources, aiming to enable a diverse range of students to pursue their academic and professional goals within the field of film and media studies.

The Columbia University School of the Arts offers a comprehensive Film Program designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of filmmaking, film theory, and cinematic history. The program emphasizes a hands-on approach, allowing students to develop their skills in screenwriting, directing, producing, and editing through rigorous coursework and practical production experience. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including editing suites, sound stages, and digital production labs, to support their creative projects. The curriculum combines theoretical studies with practical training, encouraging students to explore diverse genres, storytelling techniques, and cinematic styles. Additionally, students benefit from the mentorship of accomplished faculty members who are active professionals in the film industry, offering insights into current industry practices and trends. The program also emphasizes critical analysis of films, fostering an understanding of the social, cultural, and aesthetic aspects of cinema. Opportunities for collaboration with other departments, such as the School of the Arts' MFA programs, enhance interdisciplinary learning and creativity. Career support services assist students in internships, industry networking, and job placement after graduation. The program aims to prepare graduates for successful careers as filmmakers, screenwriters, producers, and industry leaders who can contribute innovatively to the global film community. Throughout their education, students are encouraged to participate in film festivals, showcases, and industry panels to gain exposure and build professional connections. The Columbia Film Program's combination of academic rigor, practical experience, and industry engagement makes it a leading choice for aspiring filmmakers seeking a comprehensive and immersive education in cinema.