Program Details
Film Studies (Minor)
MinorRandolph-Macon College
Film study entails understanding the history and aesthetics of this important art form, as well as the theoretical approaches used in its analysis. The film studies minor seeks to develop in students a critical, analytical perspective, from which they will be able to examine cinematic productions from their own and other cultures. Like the study of literature, music, and art, the study of film builds students' critical thinking and communication skills as well as their knowledge of the different national traditions of cinema.
Program Overview & Guidance

Program Guidance Element | What You Need to Know |
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Considerations for Selecting Degree | The film minor is a great choice for students due to the following reasons: - The program provides student with a comprehensive understanding of cinema, enabling them to gain a well-rounded knowledge of the medium. - Students draw from a wide range of courses across disciplines. This interdisciplinary perspective enhances their understanding of film as a complex art form influenced by diverse disciplines such as literature, history, sociology, visual arts, and computer technology. - Students have the freedom to tailor their film studies minor to their specific interests and career goals. The program offers a variety of topics and courses focus on different aspects of filmmaking, giving students the opportunity to explore their passions and develop expertise in specific areas. - Studying film cultivates valuable transferable skills that are highly sought after in various industries. Skills such as critical analysis, visual literacy, communication, teamwork, and creativity are developed throughout the program, making film studies graduates versatile and adaptable in a wide range of professional settings. Please note: Students enrolled at Randolph-Macon College attend classes primarily Monday-Friday between 8 am - 5 pm with very few evening courses. The large majority of RMC coursework is offered in-person and on campus. A very limited selection of online courses is offered in summer sessions. No more than one half of the courses on a major or minor can be transferred; at least one-half of the semester hours of the major or minor must be taken at Randolph-Macon. |
Considerations When Selecting Courses |
The program offers a truly interdisciplinary approach, allowing students the flexibility to select from a diverse array of courses across various academic disciplines that contribute towards the film minor. While completing five courses is requirement for the film minor, students are expected to take the following introductory courses (FILM 210, FILM 243/253, and FILM 244). Additionally, students have the opportunity to engage in internships and the SURF program, and can also pursue film classes while participating in our study abroad programs.
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Program Requirements Beyond Specific Courses | The Film Studies program provides the necessary tools to develop an appreciation for cinematic and digital images, as well as a critical understanding of how film shapes our perception of the world. The film minor is designed to offer students a solid foundation in film theory and history, allowing them to explore various specialized topics, national cinemas, and the intricacies involved in the art of filmmaking. |
Doing More With Your Degree | |
Program Successes & Highlights | One of our top priorities to provide access to equipment and facilities to students taking film classes. Our film program is equipped with top-notch film equipment, providing students access to cutting-edge technology for their filmmaking courses. Many of our film minors have successfully secured rewarding positions in the film industry, thanks to the valuable experience they gained during their time at RMC. |
Program Credit Requirements

If you wish to see how your credits may apply, you can:
- Contact the institution where a staff member can help you map your credits to the requirements for this program.
- View the program requirements listed in the institution's catalog.
Applicable Admissions Agreements

The table below lists admissions agreements between Randolph-Macon College and partner institutions that may guarantee admission to this program if you meet the required criteria. Click on the title name of the agreement to view a summary of those criteria.
You can view the full text of these Agreements in the Resource Center
What If I Have An Associate Degree Or Credit For Prior Learning?

Transfer Guidance Element | What You Need to Know |
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Associate Transfer Degree Completion | Students admitted under our guaranteed admissions agreement are guaranteed completion of most general education requirements. Students may need to complete additional foreign language coursework to complete the Effective Communication requirements and must complete the college's Cross-Area Requirements, most of which can be fulfilled through major programs and should not significantly increase the time to completion of degree.
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Completion of Associate Degree Concurrent with High School |
Credit for Prior Learning | We accept AP (4 or 5 on the exam) and IB (5, 6, or 7 on higher level exams). |
Did You Know That... |
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College Level Information

College Fit Guidance | What You Need to Know |
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Is This College Right For Me? | At Randolph-Macon, we recognize the breadth of knowledge and experience you bring as a transfer student. Our personalized, hands-on approach to learning lets you build on that foundation, honing the skills you'll need to excel. No matter what your future goals, we'll set you on a path to success that’s uniquely yours. |
Transfer Student Catalog Year | Catalog year determined by first semester of attendance at RMC. |
First Year Student Catalog Year | Catalog year determined by first semester of attendance |
Applying for Guaranteed Admissions | GAA students must complete the RMC transfer application and submit all required materials by June 1 (for fall term) or December 1 (for spring term). GAA students will submit an Intent to Transfer form through their current community college contact to RMC. |
Where Can This Degree Transfer

Institution | Title | Degree | Award Name | Award Level | Delivery Mode |
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Laurel Ridge Community College | Associate of Art degree in Liberal Arts: Fine Arts Major | Associate | Associate of Art | 2-Year | In-Person, Online, Hybrid |
Northern Virginia Community College | Contract Management, A.A.S. | Associate | Associate of Applied Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
Virginia Western Community College | Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts Degree Fine Arts Major | Associate | Associate of Arts | 2-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
Brightpoint Community College | Associate of Applied Arts Degree in Visual Arts - Film Specialization | Associate | Associate of Applied Arts | 2-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
George Mason University | Film and Video Studies, BA | Bachelor | Bachelor of Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
Randolph College | Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice | Bachelor | Bachelor of Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
Randolph College | Bachelor of Arts in Film and Video Studies | Bachelor | Bachelor of Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
Virginia Commonwealth University | Cinema, Bachelor of Arts | Bachelor | Bachelor of Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
Hollins University | BA in Film | Bachelor | Bachelor of Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
Richard Bland College | Associate of Arts | Associate | Associate of Arts | 2-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
Roanoke College | Bachelor of Arts in Screen Studies | Bachelor | Bachelor of Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
William & Mary | Film & Media Studies, Interdisciplinary Studies - Bachelor of Arts | Bachelor | Bachelor of Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
Shenandoah University | Bachelor of Arts Film Production | Bachelor | Bachelor of Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
Regent University | BFA in Film & Television | Bachelor | Bachelor of Fine Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
Brightpoint Community College | Associate of Applied Arts Degree in Visual Arts | Associate | Associate of Applied Arts | 2-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
Brightpoint Community College | Associate of Applied Arts Degree in Visual Arts - Photo Specialization | Associate | Associate of Applied Arts | 2-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
Virginia Peninsula Community College | Associate of Fine Arts in Visual Arts | Associate | Associate of Fine Arts | 2-Year | In-Person |
Tidewater Community College | Associate of Applied Arts - Studio Arts (Photographic Media Arts) | Associate | Associate of Applied Arts | 2-Year | In-Person, Online, Hybrid |
Virginia Western Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Visual Design Degree | Associate | Associate of Applied Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Online, Hybrid |
Virginia Commonwealth University | Photography and Film with concentration in Filmmaking, Bachelor of Fine Arts | Bachelor | Bachelor of Fine Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
Virginia Commonwealth University | Photography and Film with concentration in Photography, Bachelor of Fine Arts | Bachelor | Bachelor of Fine Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
Northern Virginia Community College | Social Sciences: History Major, A.S. | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Online, Hybrid |
Careers Where This Degree Applies

O*Net Code | Name | Description | Parent |
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25-1121.00 | Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | Teach courses in drama, music, and the arts including fine and applied art, such as painting and sculpture, or design and crafts. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research. | Educational Instruction and Library Occupations |
27-2012.03 | Media Programming Directors | Direct and coordinate activities of personnel engaged in preparation of radio or television station program schedules and programs, such as sports or news. | Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports, and Media Occ |
27-2012.05 | Media Technical Directors/Managers | Coordinate activities of technical departments, such as taping, editing, engineering, and maintenance, to produce radio or television programs. | Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports, and Media Occ |
27-2012.00 | Producers and Directors | Produce or direct stage, television, radio, video, or film productions for entertainment, information, or instruction. Responsible for creative decisions, such as interpretation of script, choice of actors or guests, set design, sound, special effects, and choreography. | Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports, and Media Occ |
27-2012.04 | Talent Directors | Audition and interview performers to select most appropriate talent for parts in stage, television, radio, or motion picture productions. | Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports, and Media Occ |
27-4031.00 | Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film | Operate television, video, or film camera to record images or scenes for television, video, or film productions. | Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports, and Media Occ |
27-4032.00 | Film and Video Editors | Edit moving images on film, video, or other media. May work with a producer or director to organize images for final production. May edit or synchronize soundtracks with images. | Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports, and Media Occ |
27-4021.00 | Photographers | Photograph people, landscapes, merchandise, or other subjects. May use lighting equipment to enhance a subject's appearance. May use editing software to produce finished images and prints. Includes commercial and industrial photographers, scientific photographers, and photojournalists. | Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports, and Media Occ |
25-1122.00 | Communications Teachers, Postsecondary | Teach courses in communications, such as organizational communications, public relations, radio/television broadcasting, and journalism. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research. | Educational Instruction and Library Occupations |
Cost To Complete
