B.A. in Biology
Whittier College, located in Whittier, California, offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in ...
B.A. in Film Studio
Whittier, California
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The B.A. in Film at Whittier College offers a multifaceted approach to film studies, balancing theoretical analysis with hands-on production experiences. Students delve into the vocabulary of film, its technology, history, forms, and meanings, fostering a deep appreciation for its role as a mode of expressive communication within historical and cultural contexts. The curriculum encourages experimentation with critical tools while also providing practical application through screenwriting, acting for the camera, and video production.
Curriculum: The Film curriculum is designed to provide a solid foundation in cinematic principles. Core courses typically include FILM/THEA 170 Fundamentals of Cinema and FILM/THEA 480 Film Theory & Criticism. Students also engage in practical production courses such as FILM/THEA 320 Introduction to Video Production and FILM/THEA 420 Advanced Video Production, allowing them to gain hands-on experience in filmmaking. Directing (FILM/THEA 315) and acting-related courses (FILM/THEA 110 Introduction to Acting) are also part of the core. The program culminates in a Senior Seminar in Theatre & Film (FILM/THEA 485), serving as a capstone experience. Additionally, students can explore film's broader contexts through electives like French Cinema, Franco-African Cinema & Literature, or Latin American Cinema, highlighting the interdisciplinary nature of the program. Practical experience is also integrated through the FILM/THEA 50 Production Practicum, requiring one practicum for each year in residency.
Research Focus: Research and scholarly inquiry are integral to the Film program at Whittier College. Students are encouraged to develop critical analytical skills through the analysis of films within broader historical and cultural contexts. The Senior Seminar in Theatre & Film serves as a capstone, where students engage in advanced research and critical writing, articulating their understanding of film as a mode of expressive communication. Students actively participate in the annual Undergraduate Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity (URSCA) conference, often showcasing their original film projects or scholarly essays. The program fosters a culture of discovery, where students can delve into film history, theory, and the impact of cinema on society, frequently working closely with faculty on their projects.
Industry Engagement: Whittier College's prime location between Downtown Los Angeles and Anaheim provides unparalleled opportunities for industry engagement. The Film program actively connects students with the professional world through film internships and networking opportunities with Hollywood talent. Students gain practical experience by participating in the annual student film festival, where they screen their short films and interact with industry professionals. Moreover, Whittier College boasts a unique advantage: film faculty are often working professionals in the industry, and students have the extraordinary opportunity to work alongside their professors and other professionals on feature films, gaining IMDb credits and invaluable real-world "Hollywood" experience. The college's Center for Career and Professional Development further assists students with career exploration, resume building, and securing competitive internships. Alumni profiles highlight graduates working in various capacities within the entertainment industry, from camera assistants on major productions to animators and storyboard artists.
Global Perspective: A global perspective is naturally integrated into Whittier College's Film program through the exploration of diverse cinematic traditions and their cultural contexts. Elective courses often delve into international cinemas, such as French Cinema, Franco-African Cinema & Literature, and Latin American Cinema, broadening students' understanding of global storytelling and visual styles. While not a mandatory requirement for the Film major specifically, Whittier College's broader commitment to international education and study abroad opportunities, supported by programs like the Global Poet Scholarship, encourages students to immerse themselves in different cultures and experience global filmmaking firsthand. This exposure enhances their ability to analyze and contribute to a globalized film landscape.
Location
Whittier, California
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 53019
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
Whittier College offers a variety of scholarship opportunities for international students to help make a high-quality education affordable and accessible. These scholarships reward academic excellence, leadership, and other talents while supporting diversity and global engagement on campus.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students are eligible for merit scholarships based on their academic achievements, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and leadership qualities. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are awarded automatically upon admission consideration or through separate applications.
International Student Academic Scholarships: Whittier College provides dedicated academic scholarships for international applicants, which recognize outstanding academic records from students worldwide. These awards typically range from partial to substantial tuition reductions and are renewable each year based on satisfactory academic performance.
Need-Based Financial Aid: While international students do not qualify for federal financial aid, Whittier College offers some need-based assistance through institutional funds. International applicants must submit a financial aid application along with supporting documents to be considered for these awards.
Specialized and Departmental Scholarships: Certain departments and programs at Whittier may have specific scholarships for international students who demonstrate excellence or interest in particular fields, such as business, sciences, or the arts. These awards encourage students to pursue their academic passions with financial support.
A Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Film from Whittier College offers graduates a compelling blend of theoretical understanding and practical skills, positioning them for diverse roles within the dynamic and ever-expanding entertainment industry and beyond. Leveraging its advantageous location near Los Angeles, the program cultivates critical thinking, creative storytelling, and technical proficiency, making alumni valuable contributors in a variety of capacities.
Film/Video Editor: This is a direct application of skills learned. Graduates are adept at assembling raw footage, adding sound, music, and effects to create a cohesive and compelling final product for films, television shows, commercials, or digital content.
Assistant Director (AD): Often an entry point into film production, an AD assists the director in managing the set, coordinating schedules, and ensuring the smooth flow of filming. It's a role that requires strong organizational skills and an understanding of the entire production process.
Production Assistant (PA): A common entry-level role, PAs provide crucial support across various departments on a film or TV set. This hands-on experience is invaluable for learning the industry ropes and making connections.
Screenwriter: Graduates with a passion for storytelling and strong writing abilities can pursue careers crafting original scripts for films, television series, or web content, or adapting existing works for the screen.
Camera Operator/Cinematographer Assistant: For those interested in the visual artistry of film, graduates can work as camera operators, responsible for the technical aspects of shooting footage, or as assistants to cinematographers, helping to achieve the desired visual style of a project.
Content Creator/Digital Media Producer: In today's digital landscape, the demand for engaging video content is immense. Film graduates can create and manage video content for social media, online platforms, marketing campaigns, or corporate communications.
Film Critic/Journalist: With a deep understanding of film history, theory, and cultural impact, graduates can pursue careers as film critics, reviewers, or entertainment journalists for publications, websites, or broadcast media.
Marketing/Public Relations for Entertainment: The ability to understand narratives and connect with audiences is vital in promoting films, TV shows, and entertainment brands. Film graduates can work in marketing, publicity, or distribution roles within studios or agencies.
Archivist/Film Preservationist: For those with an appreciation for film history and cultural heritage, graduates can work in archives, libraries, or museums, preserving, cataloging, and restoring film and media artifacts.
Arts Administrator/Film Festival Coordinator: Graduates can work behind the scenes in film festivals, arts organizations, or cultural institutions, managing events, coordinating programming, and promoting cinematic arts to a wider audience.
