Film Studies

How do film festivals shape critical, commercial, and creative practices? What can the work of Alfred Hitchcock teach us about modern global cinema? Motion pictures have flourished as the most common medium for entertainment and expression for more than 100 years. Learn how film blends art with new technology. Explore the art form and the ways it has both reflected and shaped global culture.

Put your education to work

Put your education to work

As a Film Studies graduate, you’ll be prepared for careers in film and media criticism; film programming and production; work in cultural institutions; and university research and teaching. Film studies graduates are able to think critically and write effectively about the aesthetic, cultural influence, and technological aspects of motion pictures.

A degree in Film Studies can also lead to graduate studies or another professional degree.

Degrees offered

  • BA in Film Studies
  • BA Honours Film Studies
  • Bachelor of Film Studies (BFS)
  • Minor in Film Studies

Degree requirements

Admission requirements

View the admission and application requirements for this program.

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A unique place to study

You can participate in exciting film-related activities both on and off-campus. These include special screenings and lectures from visiting filmmakers and scholars, and opportunities to participate in local film festivals and media cooperatives. You may also take advantage of on-campus media production opportunities to work on your own filmmaking and writing projects.

These opportunities enrich the Film Studies curriculum and energize the film culture at UCalgary.

Get involved with:

  • Filmmaker in Residence
  • University of Calgary Film Society
  • Cinema Politica
  • NUTV
  • Calgary International Film Festival
  • Calgary Underground Film Festival
  • Movies That Matter
  • CSIF, EMMEDIA, Quickdraw Animation Society
Faculty and research expertise

Faculty and research expertise

Our faculty have research expertise in diverse areas, from amateur movies to the Hollywood industry; Canadian cinema and the contemporary global art cinema; film history, film theory, and film philosophy. These areas of specialization are reflected both in the program’s course offerings and in the opportunities students have to participate in faculty research. 

Learn about our research

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