Program Overview

Introduction to the Film Studies Program

The Bachelor of Arts degree in Film Studies offers students a broad understanding of the medium, considering film as an art form, as a cultural industry, and as an innovative and developing technology with social, cultural, and political significance. The program provides students with analytical skills and historical and theoretical frameworks to critically assess contemporary visual culture.

Program Structure

The Bachelor of Arts degree is offered as either a B.A. or B.A. (Honours), both requiring the completion of 120 units and normally four years of full-time study.

Courses Required in the First Year

• Fall semester:
  • Film Studies 201 or Open Option
  • Science Option or Open Option
  • Open Option
  • Open Option
  • Open Option
• Winter semester:
  • Film Studies 201 or Open Option
  • Science Option or Open Option
  • Open Option
  • Open Option
  • Open Option

Career Opportunities

As a film studies graduate, students will be prepared for careers in film and media criticism, film programming and production, and work in cultural institutions. A degree in Film Studies can also be used as a stepping-stone to graduate studies, university research and teaching, and other professional degrees.

Enhancing the Bachelor of Arts Program

• Co-op and Internship: Gain valuable work experience in the industry through co-operative education and internship opportunities.
• Study Abroad: Experience different cultures, gain a better understanding of world issues, and travel around the globe, all while earning credit towards the degree.
• Community Service-Learning: Combine classroom learning with volunteer work that achieves community goals, and see first-hand how academic learning relates to social issues.
• Arts and Science Honours Academy: Be part of a unique program that combines collaborative study, global opportunities, and academic challenge.

Faculty and Program

Studying for a Bachelor of Arts degree means being a student in the Faculty of Arts. The program chosen refers to the subject area the Bachelor of Arts degree will focus on. The Faculty of Arts offers numerous majors and programs, including Archaeology to Visual Studies.

Transfer Credit

If students are coming to the University of Calgary with Advanced Placement credit or International Baccalaureate credit, they will follow the same registration process as any first-time university student. They may be eligible to use their transfer credit in their degree program, depending on the program entered and whether the courses are applicable. Generally, students must complete 18 units at the junior (200-level) before they are allowed to register in 300-level courses. However, if they received IB or AP credit for a 200-level course, they may take the 300-level course that has their 200-level course listed as a prerequisite.