Cinema Studies
Qualifications
BA, CertArts, BA(Hons), MA, PhD, GradDipArts
Introduction
The cultural impact and influence of cinema has been enormous. Film pervades many aspects of our daily lives and a critical awareness of its tools and techniques is essential for understanding contemporary culture and society. Cinema Studies classes encourage students to view films critically and to reflect upon their own role as spectators and consumers of cinematic images.
From its inception, cinema has been a truly global phenomenon. It was the most popular art form of the twentieth century and continues to play an important role in the development of digital media. Our courses reflect the global scope of film history by covering a wide range of films and directors from the era of silent film and the advent of sound (1896–1930s), the heyday of Hollywood and international art cinema (1939–1980s), the globalisation of film and contemporary world cinema (1990s to the present). There is certainly something for everyone and plenty of surprises along the way!
Recommended background
All students with a love of movies will find Cinema Studies an interesting academic subject. There are no entry requirements at 100 and 200-level, although previous classes in media studies at high school may be helpful. Courses in Cinema Studies complement study in other related Arts subjects.
100-level courses
Students have a choice of three 100-level courses in Cinema Studies. CINE 101 is offered every year and is a requirement for students majoring or minoring in Cinema Studies.
200-level and beyond
Specialised classes in film history, criticism and theory are offered at 200 and 300-level. Topics studied in greater depth include:
- Genre (documentary, science fiction, the musical, film noir, horror)
- Film movements and styles (the nouvelle vague and the New Waves of the 1960s)
- Film theory
- Screenwriting and adaptation
- National cinemas.
Lecturers from American Studies, Chinese, English, Aotahi: School of Māori and Indigenous Studies, and European Languages and Cultures also contribute to the programme.
Further study
Students wishing to pursue study in Cinema Studies at postgraduate level can apply for entry to the Bachelor of Arts with Honours, Master of Arts and PhD in English. Please contact the School of Humanities for advice and information about enrolling as a postgraduate student.
Career opportunities
A Cinema Studies graduate is ideally suited for work in the creative and cultural sector, especially in the vital area of film and multimedia. The film industry is not only limited to production but also encompasses screenwriting, exhibition, promotion, preservation, programming and education. A critical knowledge of film culture is necessary for festival programmers and organisers, curators, archivists, film historians, cultural planners, policymakers and entrepreneurs. The visual and critical literacy skills acquired by a Cinema Studies graduate are valued in the related areas of television, interactive media (web design and video), advertising and journalism. Film is now offered as an integral part of high school education and specialised teachers are in high demand.
For further career information, please go to www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers
Contact
School of Humanities
Telephone: +64 3 364 2883
Email: artsdegreeadvice@canterbury.ac.nz