Critical Studies

The Critical Studies Concentration

The Critical Studies concentration is meant to prepare students for careers as writers or critics, or to prepare students for graduate school and an eventual career as a researcher and teacher. The program requires that students first take our core requirements, which involve a blend of both studies and basic production classes. The studies classes include an overview of film history (History of Cinema) and a class that introduces the basic approaches to critical studies (Aesthetics of Cinema).

After taking the core requirements the student may take more focused courses in history and critical studies. Our required concentration courses serve to introduce students to key areas of critical studies. To ensure that students have an understanding of the various modes of filmmaking we require at least one course in the following areas; Aesthetics, Documentary, and Alternative Forms. In addition, we want to make sure that our students continue to apply critical concepts to their own creative endeavors. We therefore require students to take at least one course in the Applied Aesthetic category.