Bachelor of Arts (BA) majoring in Cinema Studies

Summary

The Bachelor of Arts is a flexible degree so you can specialise or study a wide variety of topics. Over the three years of your degree, you will gain the critical thinking, creative problem solving, and communication skills that employers want. Unique practical experiences such as internships are on offer too. The Bachelor of Arts requires a minimum total of 360 points. Each major has specific course requirements, but all consist of a minimum of 135 points in a single Arts subject. Of these, at least 60 points must be at 300-level and at least 45 points at 200-level.

The cultural impact and influence of cinema has been enormous. Film pervades many aspects of our daily lives and a critical awareness of its tools and techniques is essential for understanding contemporary culture and society.

From its inception, cinema has been a truly global phenomenon. It was the most popular art form of the 20th century and continues to play an important role in the development of digital media.

Cinema Studies classes encourage students to view films critically and to reflect upon their own role as spectators and consumers of cinematic images.

Why study Cinema Studies at UC?

Our courses reflect the global scope of film history by covering a wide range of films and directors from the era of silent film and the advent of sound (1896-1930s), the heyday of Hollywood and international art cinema (1939-1980s), and the globalisation of film and contemporary world cinema (1990s to the present). There is certainly something for everyone and plenty of surprises along the way!

Double degrees

It is possible to combine an Arts degree with other degrees.

Further study

The College of Arts has a wide range of options for postgraduate and graduate study with excellent research facilities. Pathways include: Bachelor of Arts with Honours; Master of Arts; Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).

Career opportunities

A Cinema Studies graduate is ideally suited for work in the creative and cultural sector, especially in the constantly evolving areas of film and multimedia. The film industry is not only limited to production but also encompasses screenwriting, exhibition, promotion, preservation, programming and education.

A critical knowledge of film culture is valued in festival programmers and organisers, curators, archivists, film historians, cultural planners, policy makers and entrepreneurs. The visual and critical literacy skills acquired by a Cinema Studies graduate are also useful in the related areas of television, interactive media (web design and video), advertising and journalism.

Film is now offered as an integral part of secondary school education and specialised teachers are in demand.