Welcome to Film Studies

The Major in Film Studies consists of 12 courses: 4 core courses, 3 courses chosen from three concentrations, and 5 electives. Primary majors also take Junior Year Writing and the Integrative Experience course in Film Studies

The Undergraduate Certificate in Film Studies (offered both on campus and online) provides students with a comprehensive course of study in the history, criticism, theory, aesthetics, and production of the moving image in the unique context of an interdisciplinary program. Students must complete 6 courses (18 credits) drawn from five categories of courses, including an introductory course; one course in theory or history of film; one in genre or national cinema; one upper‑level seminar (400 or higher); and one elective, preferably a production course. 

Graduate students have the opportunity to benefit from advanced study in a growing field, mentored by internationally-renowned, award-winning film studies faculty. Offered on campus as a complement to any other PhD or MA graduate program, it consists of 5 graduate courses

The Michael S. Roif Award in Film Studies is an annual competitive prize for Umass Amherst film students who show exceptional creativity in filmmaking and film scholarship

Offered online and asynchronously, the Graduate Certificate in Videographic Criticism —the first in this field in the world— is open to any students who have completed an undergraduate degree. Ideal for aspiring scholars, teachers, researchers, and other film-related professionals, it's comprised of  4 classes  (two required and two electives).

The Film Studies Program offers different kinds of internships on campus, and supports internships initiative off campus. Students can take 6 credits of internship as part of the 5 electives courses for the Film Major.

Film Studies features two ONLINE Certificates:

-the undergraduate Certificate in Film Studies (comprised of 6 courses) offers undergraduates a comprehensive course of study in the history, criticism, theory, aesthetics, and production of the moving image in the unique context of an interdisciplinary program.

-Graduate Certificate in Videographic Criticism (comprised of 4 courses) offer in-depth training to understand the theory and the practice of this new field. It's ideal for scholars, teachers, researchers, and other film-related professionals

Film Studies offers six Letters of Specialization! A UMass "Letter of Specialization" is an academic credential that allows students to gain expertise in a specific area within their major. Students complete a prescribed set of courses, and upon graduation, receive a formal letter from the program director that can be included on their resume. These are distinct from certificates or concentrations, which appear on a transcript, but often lead to the same skills and career benefits. Umass Film Studies offers 6 letters of specialization

Studying abroad offers Film Studies majors the opportunity to expand their artistic, cultural, and academic horizons by immersing themselves in new cinematic traditions and production environments. An abroad experience allows students to deepen their coursework through hands-on learning at international institutions with strong film and media programs.