Studying Cinema at Virginia Tech
Students that wish to pursue the study of Cinema at Virginia Tech may choose one of two paths.
Majoring in Cinema
Please note: Effective Fall 2009 the Cinema program will be joining the Department of Theatre Arts. Consequently, incoming Freshmen of 2009 (Class of 2013) should now major in Theatre Arts, NOT Communication. More information on the new curriculum will be added as it becomes available.
The Department of Communication offers a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with an emphasis in Film & Media Theory. This degree features courses in film history, criticism, and production. Because of expanded offerings in the area of production, in the near future, students will simply be able to major in Communication with an emphasis in Cinema.
Following this option, students are required to complete 42 hours of coursework in Communication (COMM). After completing a core set of departmental courses, which introduce students to oral, visual, and written forms of communication, students elect the option in Mass Communication, which consists of three courses (Visual Media, Media Institutions, and Media Effects), and four courses in Film and Media Theory (among them, Intro to Film, Film Production, and American Film Genres).
Along the way, students also complete electives and a program of supporting studies (minor or approved cognate) in courses outside of Communication. Internships are recommended for students who meet grade requirements.
For more information about the B.A. in Communication contact one of the Department of Communication's cinema professors.
Minoring in Film
A Minor in Film Studies is offered through the Department of Interdisciplinary Studies (IDST). The Minor requires students to take 18 hours of coursework in Film-related topics.
Please note: Film and Digital Cinema Production courses are restricted to students pursuing the Major in the Department of Communication. Only by special permission of the instructor are students pursuing the Film Studies Minor admitted into production courses.
For more information, visit the Film Minor website.