The Department of Film and Media Arts (FMA) is expanding its undergraduate program to offer a new bachelor of fine arts (BFA) degrees in addition to a more focused bachelor of arts (BA) degrees. The new BFA will offer Concentrations in Directing, Media Arts and Screenwriting for intensive arts education. The new more focused BA will offer concentrations in Cinematography, Post-Production, Producing and Screen Studies, allowing for specialized study within a liberal arts context. Additionally, the department has added a Minor in Screen Studies, that will be available to students across the university.     

The department’s tiered programs offer options for students to pursue a degree in film and media arts to their level of interest. FMA undergraduate students, who have completed two years of coursework, may apply to the BFA program or the BA with concentrations in Cinematography, Post-Production and Producing. The BFA requires a minimum of 70 credits of FMA instruction, while the BA with production concentrations requires 60 credits in the department. Students can also pursue the new concentration in Screen Studies which explores the history, cultural significance, and aesthetics of film. The department also offers a BA without a concentration for students who want flexibility in their studies. The new range of degree programs will better prepare undergraduates for the increased competitiveness and professional opportunities in the film and media arts industry.

All programs focus on the development of creative and technical skills in film, video, audio, and new media, as well as the theoretical understanding of media and culture. Students have the opportunity to explore diverse practices in the arts, as well such areas as Anthropology, Business, English, Religion, and African-American Studies. In addition, study away and internship programs provide professional mentoring, networking opportunities and career work experiences.

The Department of Film and Media Arts is composed of a diverse and recognized faculty of scholars and award winning filmmakers and media producers recipients of prizes such as: Oscar, Emmy, Guggenheim, Rockefeller, NEA, Fulbright, Sundance and international film festival awards. With Study Away programs in Los Angeles and San Francisco, the department offers many opportunities for experiential learning through internships and special programs. The department also brings in guest media makers and visiting professors from diverse backgrounds for special lectures and workshops.

By learning diverse approaches to production and theory, undergraduates are prepared to produce independent media work, assume creative leadership roles in the entertainment industry or pursue further studies, while making a significant impact on the culture in which they live.

Students interested in these new programs should contact their advisor for more information on program requirements and the application process. Prospective students should email tfma@temple.edu for more information about to the Film and Media Arts degree programs.