Program of Study
Film is an art form that defines our time, offering penetrating insights into human behavior, cultural and social change, and the relationship between past and present. The Minor in Film Studies enables students to examine film and film making through a series of courses covering the history, aesthetics, social and cultural impact, and criticism of the motion picture.
The primary purpose of the Minor in Film Studies is to enhance student learning regarding: 1) the production of film, 2) global history of film, 3) interpretation of film, 4) the uses of film, and 5) the art of filmmaking. Students at CSUSM will better understand the art of filmmaking. They will do so not only by analyzing films with the help of theories, but also by having the collaborative experience of making at least one short film.
The secondary purposes of the Minor in Film Studies are numerous. They loosely fit under three categories: educating an existing public, supporting the University Mission Statement, and building long-term community linkages.
Students whose primary interest is production should see the Video/Film Production Minor .