Film Bachelor's Degree

The Film Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) degree is a unique curriculum providing professional training in all major aspects of filmmaking alongside a solid foundation in film studies. The program prepares students to succeed in careers in the film and television industry, in professional areas utilizing time-based media (i.e., the web, advertising), and as independent artists.

The focus of the program is to develop each student’s individual strengths as visual storytellers, creative voices, and critical media practitioners within the context of a rigorous liberal arts education. By encouraging students to master a wide range of tools as well as specific areas of knowledge and experience, the program aims to nurture filmmakers who will be ready to work in a multifaceted and rapidly changing media world, while discovering and expressing their unique creative vision.

Admission Requirements

The requirements for admission to the BFA in Film include the submission of a portfolio of creative work containing films/videos, screenplays, and work from another medium. Visit the Film Materials Submission Page.

Changing a Major: Current OHIO students interested in changing into the major should use our online form: Changing or Adding a Film Major Form.

Transfer Admissions: Transfers into the School of Film are on a space-available basis only.  It is rare to accept a transfer beyond the sophomore year.

OHIO Admissions

Film B.F.A. Courses & Curriculum

View Courses & Degree Requirements in the Official Academic Catalog

The program has a unique curriculum in which each student receives professional training in all major aspects of filmmaking, alongside a strong foundation in film studies. The curriculum ensures that each student graduates with a full and well-rounded skill set that allows them to succeed in all facets of the increasingly diverse media production landscape: in the film and television industry, in professional areas using time-based media such as web design and advertising, as independent artists, and as film professionals working with museums, galleries, and festivals. In addition, each student graduates with a polished portfolio of work that highlights their unique creative vision.

In their first-year and sophomore years, students receive an introduction to film as an art form, focusing on film history and film studies combined with an overview of basic filmmaking techniques and tools. Fiction, non-fiction, and experimental films and filmmaking practices are explored in these years.

In their junior and senior years, students continue to engage with a rigorous film studies program while shifting their focus to making films. During this period, students also take part in specialization classes that allow them to develop a portfolio of work focused on their specific professional interests. Utilizing a project-based approach to building creative portfolios, students earn a B.F.A. with a concentration in directing, screenwriting, producing, cinematography, or post-production.