Stanford University Campus
Bachelor of Arts
On Campus
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Stanford University
Stanford
United States

Art and History - Film and Media Studies

About

The Bachelor of Arts in Art and History with a concentration in Film and Media Studies at University of Stanford provides a comprehensive exploration of film, media, visual arts, and their historical and cultural contexts. In the first year, students develop foundational knowledge in art history, media theory, film analysis, and research methods, cultivating critical thinking, analytical skills, research proficiency, and cultural literacy. Through lectures, screenings, and collaborative projects, students gain hands-on experience in film analysis, media critique, and visual storytelling, establishing a strong base for advanced study and creative practice in the field of film and media studies.

As students advance, the curriculum emphasizes film history, contemporary media, digital production, visual culture, and applied research. Independent projects, seminars, and honors-level coursework refine students’ creative skills, research methodology, analytical reasoning, and problem-solving abilities. The program encourages students to produce original media work, conduct scholarly research, and critically assess the cultural, social, and technological dimensions of film and media. By graduation, students are prepared for careers in media production, film criticism, cultural research, arts administration, or advanced graduate study in film, media, or related disciplines.

Key information

Duration
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Tuition fee
$43,418.00/year
Start dates & application deadlines
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More details
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Key Facts

  • Program Title: Art and History - Film and Media Studies
  • Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
  • Duration: 4 years
  • Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
  • Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
  • Location: Stanford University, United States
  • Field of Study: Film Studies
  • Language of Instruction: English

Program Structure

Year 1 – Foundations in Art and Film Studies

• Introduction to Film and Media Studies
• Art History and Visual Culture
• Media Theory and Critical Analysis
• Research Methods in Film and Media
• Writing and Analytical Skills in Arts

Year 2 – Core Studies in Film and Media

• History of Cinema and Media Evolution
• Digital Media Production and Editing
• Film Analysis and Critique
• Seminar: Research Methods in Arts and Media
• Electives in Visual Arts or Media Theory

Year 3 – Advanced Applications

• Contemporary Media Studies
• Film Production and Directing
• Independent Research Projects
• Applied Media Analysis and Critique
• Electives in Specialized Film and Media Topics

Year 4 – Capstone and Honors Project

• Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
• Advanced Seminar in Film and Media Studies
• Applied Media Production and Portfolio Development
• Presentation and Academic Portfolio
• Specialized Electives in Film, Media, and Visual Arts

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in film production, media analysis, cultural research, journalism, arts administration, and creative industries. The curriculum develops critical thinking, research proficiency, analytical skills, and creative abilities, enabling students to pursue roles as filmmakers, media analysts, cultural researchers, critics, editors, or arts administrators. Hands-on experience through independent projects, applied media production, and research ensures that graduates can analyze media content, create original work, and contribute to cultural discourse. Additionally, the program provides a strong foundation for graduate study in film, media studies, visual arts, or related disciplines, equipping students to lead in creative and analytical fields.

Why Choose This Program

This program is ideal for students who wish to explore the intersection of art, film, and media through a research-focused and creative curriculum. Its structure emphasizes critical thinking, analytical proficiency, research methodology, and applied problem-solving, providing students with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on creative experience. Through seminars, independent research, media production, and applied projects, learners develop the skills to analyze cultural trends, produce innovative media work, and engage with artistic and cinematic practices critically. Graduates leave with the expertise, confidence, and professional readiness to pursue careers in film production, media studies, cultural research, or advanced graduate study in the arts and media disciplines.

Contact Information

For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 650 000 0000
Email: admissions@standord.edu
Address: University of Standord, 450 Serra Mall, Stanford, CA 94305, United States