What can I do with a major in Film and Media Studies?
The B.A. in Film and Media Studies is a very flexible, valuable major for the student of the 21st century. On the one hand, it develops the all-around strengths of a good liberal arts degree with strong emphasis on critical thinking, clear and engaging writing, and informed research and analysis. On the other hand, it provides a specific body of knowledge and skills pertaining to moving images—their history (aesthetic, industrial, social, etc.) and relationship to other cultural phenomena; theories about how they engage and communicate with viewers; and a range of critical tools for analyzing their meanings and effects.
In short, the Film and Media Studies major offers crucial communication and analytical skills for most any profession as well as specific knowledge and skills beneficial to careers engaged with a range of media forms and technologies (film, television, the internet, mobile imaging and so on).
While our major has only been up and running for a few years (although similar majors have grown increasingly popular at colleges and universities throughout the country for several decades), some of our students have gone on to work in film and media production, both independent and industrial, in Los Angeles, New York, and the Southeast. Some have entered graduate programs (at Emory, NYU, University of Pittsburgh, for example) to pursue further academic research and college-level teaching in film and media studies and related fields. Others are pursuing media work in the fields of archiving and library and information science, business, and education. Yet others have decided to go to law school or join the Peace Corps.
This diversity of paths is not insignificant. In light of the rapid development of moving-image media in most every conceivable field, the critical eye, strong communication skills, and advanced media literacy skills of a Film and Media Studies major can be a tremendous asset in a wide range of careers.
To speak to an advisor about your own interests and the major, call or stop by the Film and Media Studies office and make an appointment to talk to a faculty advisor.
