Program Overview

Introduction to the Cinema Program

The Department of Cinema develops both artists and creative thinkers in cinema, fostering critical appreciation of innovative and traditional cinematic expression. Students learn to view works of cinema in their social, economic, and historical contexts, as well as in general historical and aesthetic terms.

Program Overview

The production program in film and electronic media encourages artistic discovery and expression, rather than mere technical proficiency. Both production and studies courses are valuable to a wide range of students, as cinema is a major art and entertainment medium of our time.

Major Requirements

The cinema major consists of six core courses and five electives. The core courses give students experience in the analysis of film and video and the creation of personal works in both media. A set of elective courses is chosen to reflect the student's dominant interests.

• Core courses:
  • CINE 121: Experience, History and Analysis of Cinema
  • CINE 122: Expression and Innovation in Film and Video
  • CINE 252: Video and Filmmaking I
  • CINE 321: Film Theory
  • CINE 353: Digital Videomaking II
  • One 300-level CINE production course
• Electives:
  • Cinema elective (200 level or higher)
  • Cinema elective (200 level or higher)
  • Cinema elective (300 level or higher)
  • Cinema elective (300 level or higher)
  • Cinema elective (400 level)

Residency Requirement

A minimum of 6 courses in Cinema courses must be taken at Binghamton University to qualify for the BA degree.

Grade Requirement

The Cinema Department requires a grade of C or better in cinema courses counted toward the major. No courses for the major may be taken Pass/Fail.

Honors Program and Senior Thesis

The Senior Thesis is a path to honors, taken after advanced-level work completed through the regular curriculum.

Production

Students must have completed a 400-level production course prior to taking Senior Thesis. CINE 451, Advanced Film & Videomaking, is the prerequisite, but exceptions can be made on a case-by-case basis.

Film Studies

Students must have completed CINE 321, Film Theory, prior to enrolling in a Senior Thesis. Exceptions need the approval of all faculty participating in the senior thesis process.

Honors

Honors can be awarded as a result of the successful completion of a senior thesis project, including a consistent and productive work schedule, persuasive presentations, and a self-evaluation of progress and completion.

Alternate Path to Honors

Students who are unable to take Senior Thesis but have exceptional work can submit a portfolio for review by the full faculty. The portfolio must include a written self-evaluation, descriptions of individual works, and links to work for viewing or writing samples.

Independent Study

Students can take CINE 497: Independent Study to work on their own project with a faculty member. Prerequisites include one 400-level production course for Production or CINE 321: Film Theory for Film Studies. The student meets with the faculty adviser and receives feedback on their project.