Filmmaking Degree Debuts at Oakland University this Fall

Oakland University (OU) Expands Cinema Studies Program with Specialization in Filmmaking

Oakland University has developed an exciting new Bachelor of Arts degree in Cinema Studies with a Specialization in Filmmaking, which will start enrolling students this fall.

“This liberal arts B.A. combines a specialized sequence of filmmaking courses with film history and theory courses that give students a solid base and rich background in the discipline,” said Andrea Eis, professor and director of Cinema Studies at OU.

“Students in the specialization will gain extensive creative experience making films in a variety of genres and styles, ranging from narrative and documentary to essay, short-form and experimental work.”

According to Eis, filmmaking students start with a core set of classes shared with the critical studies program in Cinema Studies – film history, theory and methods, and introductory filmmaking courses – before branching off into filmmaking electives.

“The filmmaking courses will expand and deepen students’ skills and technical knowledge in all areas of film production, from writing scripts, directing and cinematography, to editing and post-production effects work,” Eis said.

Internships and field experiences are available to help prepare students for successful careers in film and media industries. The program also offers a range of professionalization opportunities, such as working on film sets with Oakland University Professional Film Partner Michael Manasseri of Flux Capacitor Studios and Resident Filmmakers, the Deka Brothers.

“The specialization was developed in direct response to high levels of student interest in advanced film production course work,” Eis said. “With the specialization, we have not only expanded our filmmaking elective offerings, but we also offer a filmmaking-specific Cinema Studies capstone, one that will enable students to graduate having created a substantive, high quality thesis film.”

For more information about OU Cinema Studies, contact Professor Andrea Eis at eis@oakland.edu or visit www.oakland.edu/english/academic-programs/cinemastudies.

Photos Courtesy of Oakland University