Film Studies

The Film Studies program at the University of Colorado Boulder offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of cinema as an art form, cultural practice, and social influence. Designed for those passionate about film history, theory, criticism, and production, the program provides a robust curriculum that combines scholarly analysis with practical skills. Students engage with a wide range of cinematic genres, periods, and styles, gaining a deep understanding of the historical development of film and its role in shaping society. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical writing, and research skills, preparing graduates for careers in film criticism, academia, production, and media industries. Coursework includes studies in film theory, history, aesthetics, and genre analysis, alongside hands-on experiences in filmmaking, editing, and screenwriting. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and collaborate with faculty who are accomplished scholars, filmmakers, and critics. The program also encourages participation in film festivals, internships, and research projects to enhance real-world experience. With an emphasis on diverse perspectives and global cinema, the Film Studies program aims to foster a nuanced understanding of cinema’s impact across different cultures and societies. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue advanced degrees or enter professions within the entertainment industry, media organizations, or academic institutions. The program’s flexible curriculum allows students to tailor their education according to their interests, whether they focus more on theoretical aspects or practical filmmaking skills. Overall, the Film Studies program at CU Boulder prepares students to become insightful critics, innovative filmmakers, and informed consumers of film, contributing meaningfully to the vibrant discourse surrounding cinema in the modern world.

Prerequisites. The following are required for admission to the graduate program:

• Bachelor’s degree from an approved college or school of art with a minimum grade point average of 2.75
• Minimum of 34 credit hours of acceptable work in art; 12 credits in fine arts history is preferred
• Submission of films and other examples representing creative work or electronic media. Students should submit a portfolio of creative work to include video and/or audio tapes, film, etc., as appropriate (especially for documentation of performance and/or installations) for screening by the electronic media committee for presentation to the full graduate faculty.

Degree Requirements.  Effective fall 2008, the MFA program is a two-and-a-half year program. The degree requires a minimum of 54 credit hours of course work, of which 36 must be taken in residence on the Boulder campus, with the following requirements: 

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

• Home studio (major area)—min. 12
• Electives (studio and non-studio; up to 6 credits may be taken in an allied field, at the 3000 level and above)—21 
• Art history and theory—9
• Visiting artist seminar—3
• Graduate art seminar—3
• Thesis—6 
• For the Film Track MFA students: ARTF 5030 Visiting Filmmakers Seminar is allowed as a substitute for ARTS 5118 Visiting Artist Seminar; ARTF Critical Studies courses are allowed as alternates to fulfill 3 hours of the art history requirement.

Requirements

1. Hold a baccalaureate degree or its equivalent from an accredited college or university.
2. Have an undergraduate grade point average of at least 2.75.
3. Minimum of 34 credit hours of acceptable work in art; 12 credit hours in fine art history is preferred.
4. Submission of a portfolio of creative work on DVD, mailed to the departmental graduate program coordinator (address below).
5. Provide an Artist Statement (in addition to the personal statement of goals and objectives).
6. Provide three letters of recommendation.

Scholarships

Fellowships and teaching assistantships. There is no separate application for financial support but the applicant's interest in a part-time teaching (TA, GPTI) or non-teaching (GA) position may be expressed in their statement of goals and objectives.

The University of Colorado Boulder offers a comprehensive Film Studies program designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the history, theory, and practice of cinema. The program explores diverse aspects of film, including visual storytelling, production techniques, cinematic history, and critical analysis. Students have the opportunity to engage with a wide range of film genres, periods, and cultures, fostering a global perspective on the medium. The curriculum may include courses in film history, film theory, screenwriting, directing, editing, cinematography, and film production. Through these courses, students develop both analytical skills and practical abilities essential for careers in film and related fields. The program often emphasizes critical thinking and encourages students to analyze films within cultural, social, and political contexts. Students may also have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including editing labs, sound studios, and projection rooms, to support hands-on learning and project development. The faculty comprises experienced scholars and industry professionals who bring real-world insights into classroom instruction. Opportunities for internships and collaborations with local film festivals, production companies, and media organizations may be available to enhance experiential learning. Graduates of the program can pursue careers in film production, screenwriting, film criticism, curatorial work, or continue their education in graduate film studies. The University of Colorado Boulder’s commitment to diversity and inclusion ensures that students from all backgrounds can thrive in this dynamic academic environment. Overall, the Film Studies program aims to cultivate creative, critical, and analytical skills that prepare students to contribute meaningfully to the evolving landscape of film and media industries worldwide.