Bachelor of Arts in Film Studies

Bachelor of Arts in Film Studies

“Film School “at Carson-Newman

For over thirty years, Carson-Newman has been teaching students about films and filmmaking. An interdisciplinary Film major now blends coursework in film production and writing with the academic study of motion pictures in a Christian context. Film students hone their craft as filmmakers while studying the aesthetics of cinema and the business of the motion pictures industry.

The Mossy Creek Documentary Arts Festival is just one of many ways Carson-Newman Film students connect to the profession. The festival offers the opportunity for students and professional documentary filmmakers to share their stories with the campus and community.

Description of the Film Program

Film students will study the aesthetics of motion pictures, learn the tools of production, and prepare for careers in the film industry. Students majoring in Film will select from classes on film in the areas ranging from Communication to English, from History to Religion.

Specialized courses like Film Authors or American Film Genres provide students with a clear understanding of the medium. Classes like World Cinema offer an intercultural perspective on film. Film students also have access to a production studio, editing equipment, cameras, lighting and other tools of the trade, and internships play a crucial role in providing students with real-world skills in and knowledge of the film industry.

Students have the opportunity to interact with professional filmmakers as they visit the campus and serve as guest lectures in classes. Each year, Carson-Newman also hosts the Mossy Creek Documentary Arts Festival showcasing the documentary films of both students and professionals and bringing filmmakers to campus. In addition, Tennessee Filmmaker, a PBS series, is sometimes shot on the campus.

By the senior year, students work individually with professors to create Senor Film Projects. This capstone experience demonstrates the knowledge and skills that the student has developed throughout the program.

While at Carson-Newman, students also can apply to be involved in film internships, including opportunities in Hollywood.

Carson-Newman is a growing Christian liberal arts university located in East Tennessee, recognized as one of the best value schools in the region. Carson-Newman is a growing Christian liberal arts university located in East Tenessee, recognized as one of the best value schools in the region. Here students are encouraged to grow in their faith and explore their calling. We have a strong commitment to local and international service, following the example Jesus set.

Our faith is the foundation for our entire campus: challenging academic programs, competitive NCAA athletics, student clubs, and activities. At Carson-Newman, we work hard, compete fiercely and prepare students for a variety of career fields. As a liberal arts university, we take a comprehensive approach to your college experience. Whether you are an undergraduate, adult or graduate student, we want your college experience to shape your academic, spiritual and personal growth. That's why our excellent faculty take time to teach and to build relationships with students. Our approach to a liberal arts education is focused on helping you identify and further your calling—who did God create you to be? You'll learn to ask questions, discover what motivates you and grow in character.