Which Schools Offer an Online Degree in Cinema Studies?
Cinema studies is an academic program that involves the critical study of film theory, history and aesthetics. An online degree program in cinema studies requires students to watch numerous films and features coursework that can be completed at any time. Read on to find out more about schools that offer an online degree in cinema studies.
Online Cinema Studies Programs: Overview
Students who pursue a cinema studies degree can find opportunities in the film industry as production workers, directors, critics, screenwriters or producers. They develop an understanding of international film movements, national cinemas and modern influence regarding film. Courses engage students in the economic, legal and political forces behind the governing film industry.
Because students are required to watch and analyze film, the educational experience is similar between an online and on-campus program. Most online programs have virtual classrooms, which provide cinema studies instruction and discussion. The following are two schools that offer a degree program in cinema studies fully or partially online.
Important Facts About Online Cinema Studies Degrees
| Prerequisites | High school diploma or GED equivalent for undergraduate programs; bachelor's degree for graduate programs |
| Degrees | Associate of Arts (A.A.); Bachelor of Arts (B.A.); Master of Arts (M.A.) |
| Similar Degree Fields | Entertainment Business, Digital Filmmaking |
| Continuing Education | Online certificate programs in areas such as writing for film and television available |
| Median Salary (2018) | $71,680 (producers and directors)* |
| Job Outlook (2016-2026) | 12% (producers and directors)* |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Santa Barbara City College
The Associate in Arts in Film Studies at Santa Barbara City College provides students with the opportunity to take on-campus and online courses. Students also have the opportunity to study abroad and conduct studies at film festivals. Core and required courses place an emphasis on cinema history, film theory and criticism. A total of 33-34 units must be completed to earn this degree. Courses that students will be required to take include the following:
- Contemporary World Cinema
- Introduction to Film
- Mass Media and Society
Arizona State University
The online cinema studies program at Arizona State University emphasizes interactivity and educates students with a variety of clips from movies and films. The online courses are built around streaming audio lectures that are synchronized with visual slides. This cinema studies online program allows students with busy schedules and jobs to pursue a degree involving cinema, media and popular culture. The curriculum in this Bachelor of Arts in Film and Media Studies program includes courses addressing these topics:
- Film history
- Gender and race in American film
- The creative process of film
- Violence and crime in American film