Bachelor of Film Studies at The Ohio State University
International students can study the Film Studies at The Ohio State University on the Columbus campus in United States of America. This Bachelor degree is available as a Full Time program delivered on campus in English. The program has a duration of 4 years and is offered at the Columbus campus. Students can apply for the next intake starting on August 24, 2027.
About Bachelor of Film Studies
Film Studies
Degree: BA
Campus: Columbus
College: Arts and Sciences
Film studies allows students the flexibility to focus on film theory and history, screenwriting or production. Whether you want to be a film critic, screenwriter, festival programmer, archivist or teacher, the film studies major provides you with a pathway through the vast world of cinema.
Get started
Upon admission to the university, students can declare a major in film studies within the College of Arts and Sciences.
Students interested in film studies should consult with an Arts and Sciences advisor and with the program’s academic advisor as soon as possible. English 2263: Introduction to Film is a prerequisite for the major and fulfills part of the general education requirements for the College of Arts and Sciences. This prerequisite should be taken early by any student potentially attracted to this major.
Curriculum
The major in film studies comprises at least 39 credit hours. Students take the following courses, which can be chosen from a list of approved film courses in various disciplines.
- core courses (six credit hours)
- three credit hours each in the pre-1950s, multicultural, non-industrial and non-fiction components
- film studies electives (nine credit hours)
- focus area in film theory, screenwriting or film production (nine credit hours)
- senior seminar (three credit hours)
There is no foreign language requirement beyond the general education requirements, but all students, especially those whose focus area concentrates on a non-English speaking national cinema or topic, are encouraged to complete three semesters in a foreign language. Some classes and internship opportunities may only be available to those with advanced language skills.
Internship
Internships are an important part of the academic experience and can add important development opportunities for students pursuing careers in any aspect of film production and film studies.
Ohio State Film Studies and Moving-Image Production students have found internships and careers within a variety of companies such as: 3 Arts Entertainment, 4th Row Films, Bungalow Media, Broadway Video, CBS, Cohen Media, Groundswell Pictures, Myriad Pictures, Netflix, Youtube, Paradigm, Sundance, Starz, Ohio HD, Paradigm and Silver Pictures, and WOSU Public Media.
Students in this major have also found work on productions like: Captain America: The Winter Soldier; Carol; Fast and Furious 8; "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert," and more.
Generous scholarships are awarded twice annually to support costs associated with student participation in film industry internships.
Honors and Scholars
Honors versions of several film studies courses are under development. Qualified students also may seek to complete a senior Honors thesis, in which they pursue an area of scholarship under the close supervision of a faculty member.
Students majoring in film studies may apply to either the Humanities Scholars or Arts Scholars programs. The Ohio State Scholars Program provides students opportunities to live and learn with students with similar interests and incorporates specialized workshops, programming, mentoring and advising.
Learn more about Honors and Scholars Programs at honors-scholars.osu.edu.
Research
Students are strongly encouraged to participate in research. Film Studies has a rich culture of research that includes students, faculty and a 2018 Rhodes Scholar.
Student organizations
From writing to production to animation, Ohio State has student organizations focused on every part of the film process. These groups offer film screenings, trivia nights, production opportunities, trips to film festivals and more.
- The Animation Club provides a community for those interested in viewing, discussing, and making animated shorts.
- The Film and Video Society is committed to fostering cooperation and creativity among Ohio State students in the disciplines of film and video. By offering an open and rewarding environment for the study and appreciation of film and video, they strive to prepare students for future explorations in these media.
- The Mad Royal Film Society is a movie group that collaborates to make one polished short film per school year. They do pre-production in the fall, and filming in the spring.
- Scarlet and Gray Anime fosters an appreciation of Japanese popular culture through showings of Japanese animated films ("Anime") and related popular media.
- The Video Essay Club (or VEC) hosts discussions, workshops, and screenings for all students to creatively explore their academic interests through the audiovisual medium of video essays.
Possible careers
Traditionally, graduates with a BA in film studies pursue careers in film, video and media production. Many find positions in distribution, film development, casting, talent management, film archiving, journalism, arts criticism and education. Graduates also find success in graduate school acceptance and in job searches nationally in these areas. Students are also prepared for the kinds of positions requiring critical and information-analytical skills in government, nonprofit organizations and industry that are open to other students majoring in the arts and sciences.
Requirements and Admission Criteria for Bachelor of Film Studies at The Ohio State University
Entry Requirements
Criteria of our holistic review, in no particular order.
Successful completion of university preparatory courses
High school performance (class rank or GPA), including participation in accelerated programs like Honors, AP and IB; Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for class rank or GPA
Standardized test score (ACT or SAT); Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Ability and desire to contribute to and engage with a diverse campus community
Experiences that demonstrate leadership or engaged involvement (e.g., co-curricular activities, work experiences or military service)
Status as a first-generation university student
Demonstration of outstanding talent in a particular area
High school performance if adversely affected by physical, mental or learning environment factors
Eligibility for and likelihood of benefiting from organized support services at Ohio State
Enrollment in your intended major
Once it is determined that you are admissible, you will be considered for enrollment in the college of your intended major. Read about
English Requirements
- IELTSMin 6.5
- TOEFLMin 79
English Program Requirements
we require evidence of English language proficiency, unless you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.
Tuition and Fee Information for Bachelor of Film Studies at The Ohio State University
How to Apply for Bachelor of Film Studies at The Ohio State University
How do I submit scores?
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Tips for sending scores to Ohio State
Scores must come directly from the testing agency. When you register for the ACT or SAT, indicate that you want your scores sent to Ohio State.
If you already took the test but didn't send your scores to Ohio State, you can order them for a fee. Order in advance to be sure scores reach us by the application deadline.
We must receive standardized test scores by your application deadline (either November 1 or February 1 for autumn semester applicants).
October 2 (SAT) and October 23 (ACT) are your last 2021 test dates if you want your scores to be considered for our November 1 early action deadline. Important! If you plan to test on those dates, you must request that Ohio State receive scores when you register for the test. And please note: If you choose to have your scores considered, you won’t be able to review scores from these dates prior to submitting your application by the November 1 deadline.
Applicants who will have been out of high school for two or more years by their term of enrollment are not required to submit scores.
Is the essay required?
The essay is not required for either the ACT or SAT.
Should I take a standardized test more than once?
Ohio State looks at the highest composite score from a single test date. Taking the test (and having scores sent to us) more than once, while not required, may work to your advantage.
How does Ohio State look at scores?
When considering students for admission or Honors and Scholars selection, we consider the best official composite / combined score from a single test administration. Ohio State does not mix sub-scores from multiple tests.
These items plus the Common Application (STEP 3) make up a complete application. We must receive all items by the deadline to consider your application on time.
Official transcripts
High school transcripts
Request that your high school or secondary school send transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates for coursework from the final four years (grades 9-12) to Ohio State.
How to send your transcripts to Ohio State:
Your high school counselor can upload the transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates using Common App, Naviance or other secure electronic delivery service.
Your high school counselor can email the transcripts to [email protected].
If electronic submission is not possible, please mail your official transcripts to our express mail address.
Faxed transcripts will not be accepted.
Foreign language documents must be translated into English by the issuing institution, an authorized translator or a teacher of the language. Any additional requirements will be posted to your Applicant Center, so be sure to check your application status regularly after you've applied.
Official ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.How do I submit my scores?
We must receive your official ACT or SAT score sent electronically directly from the testing agency. Scores from transcripts will not be considered. Read more about score requirements in STEP 1.
Optional: Recommendation from a teacher or counselor
While not required, your counselor may send a maximum of two letters of recommendation electronically through the Common Application.
If an electronic option isn’t available, your counselor may email your letter(s) to
[email protected]; the letter must include your first and last name and OSU ID number, found on the email we send acknowledging receipt of your application. Letters sent via email are subject to sender verification.
Official proof of English language skills
You must request that your testing agency send official scores electronically to Ohio State demonstrating the English proficiency level outlined below:
TOEFL (internet-based test or internet-based test Home Edition*): 79 or higher
IELTS or IELTS Indicator*: 6.5 or higher
ACT: 21 or higher on the English section
SAT: 27 or higher on the Reading Test
Duolingo*: 105 or higher
You are exempt from this requirement if you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.
Ohio State has an intensive English program for students who wish to improve their language skills called the American Language Program. A separate application is required for this program. Ohio State does not offer conditional admission to students who enroll in the American Language Program.
*To accommodate applicants affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, The Ohio State University will accept Duolingo, the IELTS Indicator and the TOEFL internet-based test Home Edition from any international student applying for spring 2022 or autumn 2022 admission. All Duolingo test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival to campus. TOEFL Home Edition and IELTS Indicator test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival unless they qualify for a TOEFL or IELTS score exemption.
United States of America, Columbus