Overview
The Department of Cinematic Arts offers a major in Motion Pictures.
A Motion Pictures major selects from the following tracks: Business, Critical Studies, General, Production, or Screenwriting.
The business track is intended for students interested in media industries, this track offers an in-depth view from a decision-making perspective. You will learn how content is made, while attaining advanced business skills in many aspects from traditional movie outlets to new distribution opportunities, defined by multi-platforms and omni-channels.
You will discover motives, tactics and tools for content creation as well as strategies for choosing which platform best serves a particular story. This track is an excellent choice for students who strive to think critically about the environment the industry operates in and how it can inform your own business strategy.
You will be encouraged to develop your individual talent in a nurturing and collaborative environment, where you begin learning through practical, problem-solving based classes from your first semester on.
Internships, extra-curricular organizations, guest master classes, CCA project-based, study-abroad programs and the Semester in Los Angeles Program, give you ample opportunity to further your education in business outside of the classroom.
The critical studies track is for students excited by the study of film and media, and offers the opportunity to consider a wide range of perspectives on culturally, historically, and artistically significant works. You will engage with the aesthetic, political, and moral issues that inevitably arise when closely looking at examples, while broadening your horizons as you learn about the contexts in which they were produced.
You will cultivate analytical, conceptual, communication, and writing skills and gain research tools, all of which provide a strong foundation for media-related fields. Students in the Critical Studies track may go on to pursue graduate study. They are also well-positioned to choose creative careers or work in the media industry.
The general track gives students flexibility and range as well as depth of focus. This track offers a unique edge in today’s expanding technological landscape, providing breadth, versatility, and the advanced skills that will position you to succeed in a number of media careers.
Students select a primary specialization from one of the following areas: production, screenwriting, business, documentary, graphics and animation, or critical studies. Students choose an additional six credits of electives. It is recommended, though not required, that these six electives be chosen from a single area creating a secondary specialization.
Some students prefer not to check just one box as they go along their academic journey. The general track appeals to students who like to step out of the box and customize the cinema major to their individual goals.
The production track is intended for students interested in intensive production, this track offers advanced technical skills in directing, cinematography, editing, sound, documentary, immersive storytelling, graphics and animation. You will learn about all stages of the creative process from writing and development, through production and post-production, to all forms of exhibition.
You will be encouraged to develop your individual talent and personal expression in a nurturing and collaborative environment, where you start making films in your first semester and participate in hands-on learning throughout the program.
Internships, extra-curricular organizations, guest master classes, CCA production-based, study-abroad programs and the Semester in Los Angeles Program, give you ample opportunity to further your education in production outside of the classroom.
The screenwriting track is intended for students interested in intensive scriptwriting, this track provides advanced skills in writing for film and series television. You will gain a familiarity with all stages of the creative process for film and TV (from writing and development, through production and post-production, to exhibition). You will attain advanced writing skills and techniques, such as story development, characterization, structure, and dialogue while acquiring extensive knowledge about the business of scriptwriting (including the submission process, agents, financing, television writers’ rooms, etc.).
You will be encouraged to develop your individual talent and personal expression in a nurturing and collaborative environment, where you start writing scripts in your first semester and continue with practical, applied learning throughout the program.
Internships, extra-curricular organizations, guest master classes, CCA project-based, study-abroad programs and the Semester in Los Angeles Program, give you ample opportunity to further your education in writing outside of the classroom.
Curriculum Requirements for Business Track
Code | Title | Credit Hours |
---|---|---|
Core Courses | ||
CCA 103 | Survey of Motion Pictures | 3 |
CCA 206 | History of International Cinema | 3 |
COM 250 | Freedom of Expression and Communication Ethics | 3 |
Advanced Writing and Communication Skills Requirement | ||
Writing Skills Course: | ||
CCA 126 | Introduction to Screenwriting | 3 |
Select one of the following presentation skills courses: | 3 | |
Public Speaking | ||
Business Communication | ||
Digital Skills Course: | ||
CCA 151 | Introduction to Digital Filmmaking | 3 |
Required Track Core | ||
CCA 364 | Business of Motion Pictures | 3 |
CCA 409 | Legal Aspects of Motion Pictures | 3 |
CCA 465 | Creative Producing | 3 |
Select two of the following: | 6 | |
Motion Picture Marketing and Distribution 1 | ||
or JMM 434 | Media Distribution for Film and Television | |
Motion Picture Internship | ||
Projects and Directed Research | ||
Special Topics in Cinematic Arts | ||
JMM Business Focus Elective may count towards this requirement. Please check with CCA advisor | ||
Select one of the following: | 3 | |
Nonfiction Film and Digital Media | ||
Film Directors | ||
Aspects of Contemporary Cinema | ||
Representations of Sport in Popular Culture | ||
Genres | ||
National Cinemas | ||
Women, Media, and Popular Culture | ||
Internet and Media Activism | ||
Portfolio Requirement | ||
CCA 514 | Motion Picture Studio | 3 |
Additional Requirements | ||
WRS 105 | First-Year Writing I | 3 |
WRS 106 | First-Year Writing II | 3 |
or ENG 106 | Writing About Literature and Culture | |
MTH 113 | Finite Mathematics (This course fulfills the Quantitative Skills Requirement.) | 3 |
or JMM 285 | Applied Statistics for Journalism and Media Management | |
or STC 103 | Statistical Reasoning for Strategic Communication | |
People and Society Cognate | 9 | |
STEM Cognate | 9 | |
Minor, Second Major and Electives | 54 | |
Total Credit Hours | 120 |
Curriculum Requirements for Critical Studies Track
Code | Title | Credit Hours |
---|---|---|
Core Courses | ||
CCA 103 | Survey of Motion Pictures | 3 |
CCA 206 | History of International Cinema | 3 |
COM 250 | Freedom of Expression and Communication Ethics | 3 |
Advanced Writing and Communication Skills Requirement | ||
Writing Skills Course: | ||
CCA 126 | Introduction to Screenwriting | 3 |
Select one of the following presentation skills courses: | 3 | |
Public Speaking | ||
Business Communication | ||
Digital Skills Course: | ||
CCA 151 | Introduction to Digital Filmmaking | 3 |
Other Required Courses | ||
CCA 401 | Nonfiction Film and Digital Media | 3 |
CCA 403 | Film Directors | 3 |
CCA 406 | Genres | 3 |
Select three of the following: | 9 | |
Aspects of Contemporary Cinema | ||
Representations of Sport in Popular Culture | ||
National Cinemas | ||
Women, Media, and Popular Culture | ||
Internet and Media Activism | ||
Portfolio Requirement | ||
CCA 514 | Motion Picture Studio | 3 |
Additional Requirements | ||
WRS 105 | First-Year Writing I | 3 |
WRS 106 | First-Year Writing II | 3 |
or ENG 106 | Writing About Literature and Culture | |
MTH 113 | Finite Mathematics (This course fulfills the Quantitative Skills Requirement.) | 3 |
or JMM 285 | Applied Statistics for Journalism and Media Management | |
or STC 103 | Statistical Reasoning for Strategic Communication | |
People and Society Cognate | 9 | |
STEM Cognate | 9 | |
Minor, Second Major and Electives 2 | 54 | |
Total Credit Hours | 120 |
Curriculum Requirements for General Track
Code | Title | Credit Hours |
---|---|---|
Core Courses | ||
CCA 103 | Survey of Motion Pictures | 3 |
CCA 206 | History of International Cinema | 3 |
COM 250 | Freedom of Expression and Communication Ethics | 3 |
Advanced Writing and Communication Skills Requirement | ||
Writing Skills Course: | ||
CCA 126 | Introduction to Screenwriting | 3 |
Select one of the following presentation skills courses: | 3 | |
Public Speaking | ||
Business Communication | ||
Digital Skills Course: | ||
CCA 151 | Introduction to Digital Filmmaking | 3 |
Select one of the following: | 3 | |
Nonfiction Film and Digital Media | ||
Film Directors | ||
Aspects of Contemporary Cinema | ||
Genres | ||
National Cinemas | ||
Women, Media, and Popular Culture | ||
Special Topics in Cinematic Arts | ||
Internet and Media Activism | ||
Portfolio Requirement | ||
CCA 514 | Motion Picture Studio | 3 |
Select a primary specialization from one of the following options: | 9 | |
Production | ||
Motion Picture Workshop: Storytelling | ||
Intermediate Filmmaking | ||
Advanced Filmmaking Workshop | ||
Screenwriting | ||
Intermediate Screenwriting | ||
Writing for Series Television | ||
Advanced Screenwriting | ||
Business | ||
Business of Motion Pictures | ||
Legal Aspects of Motion Pictures | ||
Creative Producing | ||
Documentary | ||
Essentials of Documentary Film | ||
Science Documentary: Autism | ||
Documentary Production | ||
Graphics and Animation | ||
Special Topics in Cinematic Arts | ||
Motion Graphics and Compositing | ||
Special Topics in Cinematic Arts | ||
Building Virtual Worlds | ||
3D Design and Graphics | ||
Critical Studies | ||
Nonfiction Film and Digital Media | ||
Aspects of Contemporary Cinema | ||
Genres | ||
Select 6 elective credits from the following areas: 3 | 6 | |
Production | ||
Motion Picture Workshop: Storytelling | ||
Post Production Sound Editing and Design | ||
Cinematography | ||
Editing | ||
Directing Techniques I | ||
Advanced Cinematography | ||
Advanced Editing | ||
Motion Picture Internship | ||
Special Topics in Cinematic Arts | ||
Immersive Storytelling | ||
Directing the Actor for Film | ||
Screenwriting | ||
Intermediate Screenwriting | ||
Writing for Series Television | ||
Online Screenwriting | ||
Advanced TV Writing | ||
Motion Picture Internship | ||
Projects in Screenwriting | ||
Adaptation | ||
Character and Dialogue | ||
Special Topics in Cinematic Arts | ||
Business | ||
Business of Motion Pictures | ||
Legal Aspects of Motion Pictures | ||
Motion Picture Marketing and Distribution | ||
Creative Producing | ||
Motion Picture Internship | ||
Documentary | ||
Global Issues and Filmmaking: An Interdisciplinary Approach | ||
Science Documentary: Autism | ||
Documentary Production | ||
Motion Picture Internship | ||
Special Topics in Cinematic Arts | ||
Graphics and Animation | ||
Special Topics in Cinematic Arts | ||
Motion Picture Internship | ||
Motion Graphics and Compositing | ||
Advanced Motion Graphics and Compositing | ||
Advanced 3D Character Design and Motion Capture | ||
Special Topics in Cinematic Arts | ||
3D Design and Graphics | ||
Critical Studies | ||
Nonfiction Film and Digital Media | ||
Film Directors | ||
Aspects of Contemporary Cinema | ||
Representations of Sport in Popular Culture | ||
Genres | ||
National Cinemas | ||
Women, Media, and Popular Culture | ||
Internet and Media Activism | ||
Special Topics in Cinematic Arts | ||
Additional Requirements | ||
WRS 105 | First-Year Writing I | 3 |
WRS 106 | First-Year Writing II | 3 |
or ENG 106 | Writing About Literature and Culture | |
MTH 113 | Finite Mathematics (This course fulfills the Quantitative Skills Requirement.) | 3 |
or JMM 285 | Applied Statistics for Journalism and Media Management | |
or STC 103 | Statistical Reasoning for Strategic Communication | |
People and Society Cognate | 9 | |
STEM Cognate | 9 | |
Minor, Second Major and Electives | 54 | |
Total Credit Hours | 120 |
Curriculum Requirements for Production Track
Code | Title | Credit Hours |
---|---|---|
Core Courses | ||
CCA 103 | Survey of Motion Pictures | 3 |
CCA 206 | History of International Cinema | 3 |
COM 250 | Freedom of Expression and Communication Ethics | 3 |
Advanced Writing and Communication Skills Requirement | ||
Writing Skills Course: | ||
CCA 126 | Introduction to Screenwriting | 3 |
Select one of the following presentation skills courses: | 3 | |
Public Speaking | ||
Business Communication | ||
Digital Skills Course: | ||
CCA 151 | Introduction to Digital Filmmaking | 3 |
Other Required Courses 4 | ||
CCA 251 | Motion Picture Workshop: Storytelling | 3 |
CCA 351 | Intermediate Filmmaking | 3 |
CCA 451 | Advanced Filmmaking Workshop | 3 |
Select two of the following: | 6 | |
Post Production Sound Editing and Design | ||
Essentials of Documentary Film | ||
Cinematography | ||
Editing | ||
Business of Motion Pictures | ||
Directing Techniques I | ||
Science Documentary: Autism | ||
Advanced Cinematography | ||
Advanced Editing | ||
Documentary Production | ||
Motion Picture Internship | ||
Projects and Directed Research | ||
Motion Graphics and Compositing | ||
Advanced Motion Graphics and Compositing | ||
Special Topics in Cinematic Arts | ||
Immersive Storytelling | ||
Directing the Actor for Film | ||
CCA courses not on this list must be approved by Motion Pictures advisor. | ||
Select one of the following: | 3 | |
Nonfiction Film and Digital Media | ||
Film Directors | ||
Aspects of Contemporary Cinema | ||
Representations of Sport in Popular Culture | ||
Genres | ||
National Cinemas | ||
Women, Media, and Popular Culture | ||
Internet and Media Activism | ||
Portfolio Requirement | ||
CCA 514 | Motion Picture Studio | 3 |
Additional Requirements | ||
WRS 105 | First-Year Writing I | 3 |
WRS 106 | First-Year Writing II | 3 |
or ENG 106 | Writing About Literature and Culture | |
MTH 113 | Finite Mathematics (This course fulfills the Quantitative Skills Requirement.) | 3 |
or JMM 285 | Applied Statistics for Journalism and Media Management | |
or STC 103 | Statistical Reasoning for Strategic Communication | |
People and Society Cognate | 9 | |
STEM Cognate | 9 | |
Minor, Second Major and Electives | 54 | |
Total Credit Hours | 120 |
Curriculum Requirements for Screenwriting Track
Code | Title | Credit Hours |
---|---|---|
Core Courses | ||
CCA 103 | Survey of Motion Pictures | 3 |
CCA 206 | History of International Cinema | 3 |
COM 250 | Freedom of Expression and Communication Ethics | 3 |
Advanced Writing and Communication Skills Requirement | ||
Writing Skills Course: | ||
CCA 126 | Introduction to Screenwriting | 3 |
Select one of the following presentation skills courses: | 3 | |
Public Speaking | ||
Business Communication | ||
Digital Skills Course: | ||
CCA 151 | Introduction to Digital Filmmaking | 3 |
Other Required Courses | ||
CCA 326 | Intermediate Screenwriting | 3 |
CCA 329 | Writing for Series Television | 3 |
CCA 426 | Advanced Screenwriting | 3 |
Select two of the following: | 6 | |
Online Screenwriting | ||
Advanced TV Writing | ||
Motion Picture Internship | ||
Projects in Screenwriting | ||
Projects and Directed Research | ||
Adaptation | ||
Special Topics in Cinematic Arts | ||
Select one of the following: | 3 | |
Nonfiction Film and Digital Media | ||
Film Directors | ||
Aspects of Contemporary Cinema | ||
Representations of Sport in Popular Culture | ||
Genres | ||
National Cinemas | ||
Women, Media, and Popular Culture | ||
Internet and Media Activism | ||
Portfolio Requirement | ||
CCA 514 | Motion Picture Studio | 3 |
Additional Requirements | ||
WRS 105 | First-Year Writing I | 3 |
WRS 106 | First-Year Writing II | 3 |
or ENG 106 | Writing About Literature and Culture | |
MTH 113 | Finite Mathematics (This course fulfills the Quantitative Skills Requirement.) | 3 |
or JMM 285 | Applied Statistics for Journalism and Media Management | |
or STC 103 | Statistical Reasoning for Strategic Communication | |
People and Society Cognate | 9 | |
STEM Cognate | 9 | |
Minor, Second Major and Electives | 54 | |
Total Credit Hours | 120 |
- 1
Students may only take CCA 462 or JMM 434. Both courses will not count for the major.
- 2
If these electives are outside the Motion Pictures major (but within the School of Communication) they must be approved by the chair.
- 3
Majors cannot double count courses without approval from faculty advisor and/or department chair. CCA 499 and CCA 594 should be selected in consultation with faculty advisor.
- 4
Only a maximum of 9 combined credits of internship and/or independent study can be applied towards the major.
- *
School of Communication students are required to complete a minimum of a minor (inside or outside of the school) in addition to their Communication major to graduate. For an optional 2nd major, please see your advisor.
- *
School of Communication students must complete 6 credits of Written Communication Skills unless exempt based on SAT/ACT score or AP/IB exam, 3-6 credits of Mathematics, University Cognates and the Advanced Writing and Communication Skills Proficiency requirement.
Upper Level Elective Requirement
36 credits at the 300 level or higher are required for graduation. These credits may be earned from your major, minor and/or second major, and electives.
Suggested Plan of Study for Business Track
Freshman Year | ||
---|---|---|
Fall | Credit Hours | |
CCA 103 | Survey of Motion Pictures 1 | 3 |
CCA 151 | Introduction to Digital Filmmaking | 3 |
WRS 105 | First-Year Writing I | 3 |
MTH 113, JMM 285, or STC 103 | Finite Mathematics or Applied Statistics for Journalism and Media Management or Statistical Reasoning for Strategic Communication | 3 |
People and Society Cognate | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Spring | ||
CCA 126 | Introduction to Screenwriting | 3 |
CCA 206 | History of International Cinema | 3 |
WRS 106 or ENG 106 | First-Year Writing II or Writing About Literature and Culture | 3 |
People and Society Cognate | 3 | |
STEM Cognate | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Sophomore Year | ||
Fall | ||
CCA 364 | Business of Motion Pictures | 3 |
COM 250 | Freedom of Expression and Communication Ethics | 3 |
People and Society Cognate | 3 | |
STEM Cognate | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Spring | ||
COS 211 or 333 | Public Speaking or Business Communication | 3 |
STEM Cognate | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Junior Year | ||
Fall | ||
CCA 462 or JMM 434 | Motion Picture Marketing and Distribution or Media Distribution for Film and Television | 3 |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Spring | ||
CCA 409 | Legal Aspects of Motion Pictures | 3 |
Select one of the following: | 3 | |
Nonfiction Film and Digital Media | ||
Film Directors | ||
Aspects of Contemporary Cinema | ||
Representations of Sport in Popular Culture | ||
Genres | ||
National Cinemas | ||
Women, Media, and Popular Culture | ||
Internet and Media Activism | ||
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Senior Year | ||
Fall | ||
CCA 465 | Creative Producing | 3 |
CCA 469 or 499 | Motion Picture Internship or Projects and Directed Research | 3 |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Spring | ||
CCA 514 | Motion Picture Studio | 3 |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Total Credit Hours | 120 |
Suggested Plan of Study for Critical Studies Track
Freshman Year | ||
---|---|---|
Fall | Credit Hours | |
CCA 103 | Survey of Motion Pictures | 3 |
WRS 105 | First-Year Writing I | 3 |
MTH 113, JMM 285, or STC 103 | Finite Mathematics or Applied Statistics for Journalism and Media Management or Statistical Reasoning for Strategic Communication | 3 |
People and Society Cognate | 3 | |
STEM Cognate | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Spring | ||
CCA 126 | Introduction to Screenwriting | 3 |
CCA 206 | History of International Cinema | 3 |
WRS 106 or ENG 106 | First-Year Writing II or Writing About Literature and Culture | 3 |
People and Society Cognate | 3 | |
STEM Cognate | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Sophomore Year | ||
Fall | ||
CCA 151 | Introduction to Digital Filmmaking | 3 |
COM 250 | Freedom of Expression and Communication Ethics | 3 |
People and Society Cognate | 3 | |
STEM Cognate | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Spring | ||
COS 211 or 333 | Public Speaking or Business Communication | 3 |
Choose one of the following: | 3 | |
Nonfiction Film and Digital Media | ||
Film Directors | ||
Genres | ||
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Junior Year | ||
Fall | ||
Select one of the following: | 3 | |
Nonfiction Film and Digital Media | ||
Film Directors | ||
Genres | ||
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Spring | ||
Select one of the following: | 3 | |
Nonfiction Film and Digital Media | ||
Film Directors | ||
Genres | ||
Select one of the following: | 3 | |
Aspects of Contemporary Cinema | ||
Representations of Sport in Popular Culture | ||
National Cinemas | ||
Women, Media, and Popular Culture | ||
Internet and Media Activism | ||
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Senior Year | ||
Fall | ||
Select one of the following: | 3 | |
Aspects of Contemporary Cinema | ||
Representations of Sport in Popular Culture | ||
National Cinemas | ||
Women, Media, and Popular Culture | ||
Internet and Media Activism | ||
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Spring | ||
CCA 514 | Motion Picture Studio | 3 |
Select one of the following: | 3 | |
Aspects of Contemporary Cinema | ||
Representations of Sport in Popular Culture | ||
National Cinemas | ||
Women, Media, and Popular Culture | ||
Internet and Media Activism | ||
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Total Credit Hours | 120 |
Suggested Plan of Study for General Track
Freshman Year | ||
---|---|---|
Fall | Credit Hours | |
CCA 103 | Survey of Motion Pictures | 3 |
CCA 151 | Introduction to Digital Filmmaking | 3 |
WRS 105 | First-Year Writing I | 3 |
MTH 113, JMM 285, or STC 103 | Finite Mathematics or Applied Statistics for Journalism and Media Management or Statistical Reasoning for Strategic Communication | 3 |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Spring | ||
CCA 126 | Introduction to Screenwriting | 3 |
WRS 106 or ENG 106 | First-Year Writing II or Writing About Literature and Culture | 3 |
People and Society Cognate | 3 | |
STEM Cognate | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Sophomore Year | ||
Fall | ||
CCA 206 | History of International Cinema | 3 |
COM 250 | Freedom of Expression and Communication Ethics | 3 |
People and Society Cognate | 3 | |
STEM Cognate | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Spring | ||
CCA Primary Specialization Elective | 3 | |
COS 211 or 333 | Public Speaking or Business Communication | 3 |
People and Society Cognate | 3 | |
STEM Cognate | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Junior Year | ||
Fall | ||
CCA Primary Specialization Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Spring | ||
CCA Primary Specialization Elective | 3 | |
Select one of the following: | 3 | |
Nonfiction Film and Digital Media | ||
Film Directors | ||
Aspects of Contemporary Cinema | ||
Genres | ||
National Cinemas | ||
Women, Media, and Popular Culture | ||
Special Topics in Cinematic Arts | ||
Internet and Media Activism | ||
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Senior Year | ||
Fall | ||
CCA Secondary Specialization Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Spring | ||
CCA 514 | Motion Picture Studio | 3 |
CCA Secondary Specialization Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Total Credit Hours | 120 |
Suggested Plan of Study for Production Track
Freshman Year | ||
---|---|---|
Fall | Credit Hours | |
CCA 103 | Survey of Motion Pictures | 3 |
CCA 151 | Introduction to Digital Filmmaking | 3 |
WRS 105 | First-Year Writing I | 3 |
MTH 113, JMM 285, or STC 103 | Finite Mathematics or Applied Statistics for Journalism and Media Management or Statistical Reasoning for Strategic Communication | 3 |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Spring | ||
CCA 126 | Introduction to Screenwriting | 3 |
CCA 251 | Motion Picture Workshop: Storytelling | 3 |
WRS 106 or ENG 106 | First-Year Writing II or Writing About Literature and Culture | 3 |
People and Society Cognate | 3 | |
STEM Cognate | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Sophomore Year | ||
Fall | ||
CCA 206 | History of International Cinema | 3 |
COM 250 | Freedom of Expression and Communication Ethics | 3 |
People and Society Cognate | 3 | |
STEM Cognate | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Spring | ||
CCA Production Track Elective from Bulletin | 3 | |
COS 211 or 333 | Public Speaking or Business Communication | 3 |
People and Society Cognate | 3 | |
STEM Cognate | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Junior Year | ||
Fall | ||
CCA 351 | Intermediate Filmmaking | 3 |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Spring | ||
CCA 451 | Advanced Filmmaking Workshop | 3 |
CCA Production Track Elective from Bulletin | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Senior Year | ||
Fall | ||
CCA 514 | Motion Picture Studio | 3 |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Spring | ||
Select One of the Following: | 3 | |
Nonfiction Film and Digital Media | ||
Film Directors | ||
Aspects of Contemporary Cinema | ||
Representations of Sport in Popular Culture | ||
Genres | ||
National Cinemas | ||
Women, Media, and Popular Culture | ||
Internet and Media Activism | ||
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Total Credit Hours | 120 |
Suggested Plan of Study for Screenwriting Track
Freshman Year | ||
---|---|---|
Fall | Credit Hours | |
CCA 103 | Survey of Motion Pictures | 3 |
CCA 126 | Introduction to Screenwriting | 3 |
CCA 151 | Introduction to Digital Filmmaking | 3 |
WRS 105 | First-Year Writing I | 3 |
MTH 113, JMM 285, or STC 103 | Finite Mathematics or Applied Statistics for Journalism and Media Management or Statistical Reasoning for Strategic Communication | 3 |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Spring | ||
COM 250 | Freedom of Expression and Communication Ethics | 3 |
WRS 106 or ENG 106 | First-Year Writing II or Writing About Literature and Culture | 3 |
People and Society Cognate | 3 | |
STEM Cognate | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Sophomore Year | ||
Fall | ||
CCA 206 | History of International Cinema | 3 |
CCA 326 | Intermediate Screenwriting | 3 |
People and Society Cognate | 3 | |
STEM Cognate | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Spring | ||
COS 211 or 333 | Public Speaking or Business Communication | 3 |
CCA 426 | Advanced Screenwriting | 3 |
People and Society Cognate | 3 | |
STEM Cognate | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Junior Year | ||
Fall | ||
CCA 329 | Writing for Series Television | 3 |
Select one of the following: | 3 | |
Nonfiction Film and Digital Media | ||
Film Directors | ||
Aspects of Contemporary Cinema | ||
Representations of Sport in Popular Culture | ||
Genres | ||
National Cinemas | ||
Women, Media, and Popular Culture | ||
Internet and Media Activism | ||
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Spring | ||
Select one of the following: | 3 | |
Online Screenwriting | ||
Advanced TV Writing | ||
Motion Picture Internship | ||
Projects in Screenwriting | ||
Projects and Directed Research | ||
Adaptation | ||
Special Topics in Cinematic Arts | ||
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Senior Year | ||
Fall | ||
Select one of the following: | 3 | |
Online Screenwriting | ||
Advanced TV Writing | ||
Motion Picture Internship | ||
Projects in Screenwriting | ||
Projects and Directed Research | ||
Adaptation | ||
Special Topics in Cinematic Arts | ||
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Spring | ||
CCA 514 | Motion Picture Studio | 3 |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Minor or Second Major or Elective | 3 | |
Credit Hours | 15 | |
Total Credit Hours | 120 |
Mission
The B.S.C. in Motion Pictures focuses on media creation with an emphasis on combining advanced technical proficiency with innovative narrative skills. Students gain practical and theoretical mastery of their particular professional concentration in screenwriting, production, post-production, and producing. Additionally, all students engage in critical studies of film history and theory in order to develop the analytical skills that support creative experimentation.
Goals
The Program’s objective is to nurture individual creative voices and encourage independent thinking, as well as to support the unique collaborative process of media creation. Graduates are prepared to pursue careers as professional moving image artists, enter the teaching profession, provide service to the community and beyond, and enter cinematic arts related professional fields.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate proficiency in screenwriting, including mastery of script formatting, narrative storytelling skills, character development, and dramatic film structure.
- Students will demonstrate knowledge of major individual works, genres, national cinemas and movements, and their significance within the history and theory of the moving image.
- Students will demonstrate proficiency in the use of motion picture production techniques (directing, cinematography, editing and sound) and professional work ethic necessary for entry into professional practice.