Information for:
Minor in Film and Media Studies
It's obvious that movies, television, and the Internet have become an important part of everyday life. However, we don't think of them as "serious" in the way traditional academic subjects are, though ironically they have much greater impact on our lives. If you want to know how these media really work, how they move and inspire us, and how they purvey certain ideas of race, class, gender, and sexuality -- or if you're just fascinated by them and want to understand the basis of your fascination -- consider a minor in film and media studies. It's a great adjunct to virtually any major, especially for students contemplating careers in education or communication.
Most course work is offered through the Departments of Communication and English, with other courses available through the Department of Modern and Classical Languages and the Program in Film and Video Studies. The two required courses provide an introduction to the languages of film and popular media and modes of analysis appropriate to each. They are prerequisites for all advanced work in the minor. Students select four additional courses designed to introduce a more specialized level of study. Students may decide to focus on film, television, or the study of mass culture, or they may choose some mix of courses that suits their interests.
Communication majors must choose at least 6 credits outside of communication for their FAMS elective courses.
Degree Requirements (Catalog Year 2008-2009)
See the university catalog for policies governing all minors.
Students pursuing this minor must complete 18 credits distributed as follows:
- Two required courses (6 credits): ENGL 332 and COMM 380
- Four electives (12 credits) chosen from COMM 302, 350, 355, 358, 360, 365, 366, 452, 456; ENGL 327*, 331, 334*, 338*, 421**,422**, 490**, 493*,499*; FREN 470***; JAPA 320; RUSS 470
- Requires prior written approval of FAMS coordinator
** May be repeated if topic is different
*** With permission of instructor and approval of FAMS coordinator
Requirements may be different for earlier catalog years. See the University Catalog archives.
Contact Information
Cynthia Fuchs
Robinson Hall A 461, MSN 3E4
Fairfax, VA 22030
703.993.2768
cfuchs@gmu.edu