The Film Studies Department prepares students to participate in a world increasingly shaped by moving pictures. Through courses that offer a foundation for understanding cinema—and its relation to culture, history, technology, and aesthetics—Film Studies teaches students to create and analyze moving images, to produce research, and to make art.
Film Studies teaches students to understand the history, aesthetics, business, and social significance of motion pictures and provides practical training in artistic and technical aspects of filmmaking. In addition to preparing students for work in the film industry and in film-related areas, the courses in the Film Studies Department develop skills that students can apply to a variety of disciplines and professions outside of film, such as skills of textual analysis, critical thinking, persuasive and creative writing, visual design, research, computer use, and oral presentation.
Located in the third-largest film production center in the United States, which is home to EUE/Screen Gems Studios, the largest film studio outside of Hollywood, the Film Studies Department is a vital link between UNCW and the local professional film community. The department draws upon film professionals to teach courses in various aspects of film production. As part of the department’s Moviemakers Series, local and visiting filmmakers also make presentations and lead workshops on various aspects of independent and industry film production. The department fosters ties to the local film community through internships that provide students with opportunities to learn about filmmaking by working on film productions and in various film-related enterprises.