Media and Film Studies (MF)
An introduction to multiple forms of modern and contemporary mass media. The course examines film and at least two other forms of mass media (such as television, radio/audio, digital media, print mass media). Students will learn how to analyze media images, texts, and systems and understand how media both informs and is informed by social structures and forces.
A project-based exploration of working in the medium of 16mm Movie Film, both in-camera and directly-on-film. Students may enter the course at any level of production experience, as basic instruction in all equipment and materials will be covered. Technical skills will be developed through a series of directed exercises done in class. Proposed projects may employ shooting and editing movie film, working directly on film emulsion animation, converting to video, combining audio and/or any other media. Students will develop their projects through screenings, and individual & class critiques. Students will focus on finding an approach to form that suits both subject matter and their personal creative goals. Students will also engage in critiques of each other’s work, screenings and discussions. Exposure to a variety of creative production styles will help each student begin to develop their own unique approach.
Topically organized courses focused on selected problems, areas, and issues of special interest in Media and Film Studies. Topics vary depending upon specialization and research interests of the instructor.
An interdisciplinary introduction to the questions re: Human dilemmas in the context of an increasingly technology and media saturated culture. The course begins with close consideration of the nature and structure of human communication and an historical overview of communications and media. Students will study media from both psychological and societal perspectives and will consider the impact of media on politics, government, community, and consumer behavior. Special attention will be paid throughout the course to the personal and social impact of current and emerging forms of communication and media.
Topically organized courses focused on selected problems, areas, and issues of special interest in Media and Film Studies. Topics vary depending upon specialization and research interests of the instructor.
Professional experience for juniors or seniors with substantial academic and cocurricular experience in the minor. With faculty sponsorship and program approval, students may extend their educational experience into such areas as journalism and communications, filmmaking, recording, and other related fields.
An introduction to a range of audio applications and ways of making in the sonic arts, including: multichannel sound (i.e. sound that comes out of more than 2 speakers), locative media (i.e. media played through mobile devices and triggered by apps that are location-aware), gallery installation, soundtracking and sound design for moving images (and other ways of thinking about “audio-vision”), the live performance and control capabilities of software like Ableton and Max. The course extends a presumed command of the basic toolkit of audio production (gained through prior course work or extracurricular experience in music production, audio documentary, filmmaking, sound design, or other digital time-based art), and thus is open to those with some past experience.
Topically organized courses focused on advanced subjects and methods of special interest in Media and Film Studies. Topics vary depending upon specialization and research interests of the instructor.
An opportunity for qualified minors to pursue independent study in Media and Film Studies under the supervision of and appropriate faculty member. The independent study proposal must be approved by the Media and Film Studies Director, in consultation with the faculty member.
Internship at an advanced level for students whose academic and cocurricular experience has prepared them for professional work in a field related to Media and Film Studies. With faculty sponsorship and program approval, students may extend their educational experience into such areas as journalism and communications, filmmaking, recording, and other related fields.