Overview

The Film programme at Portland State University provides a robust academic foundation that seamlessly integrates cinematic analysis with hands-on production. Students are encouraged to explore the depths of film history while mastering the modern tools required for contemporary visual storytelling in a collaborative environment.

From the outset of the degree, learners engage with core concepts in film analysis and filmmaking. This broad-based approach ensures that graduates are well-versed in both the scholarly and practical aspects of the medium. The curriculum is designed to foster a supportive community where students work individually and in groups to develop a diverse portfolio of work.

Why Film at Portland State University?

Portland State University is home to one of the premier film schools in the Northwest, recognised by Moviemaker magazine for its excellence in criticism and theory. The School of Film provides a unique environment where students learn from professors who are active participants in the global film industry and academia.

The university's location in Portland offers a vibrant backdrop for networking, with numerous opportunities for off-campus internships, film festivals, and local industry events. Students benefit from a culture that prioritises student success and encourages the development of a unique creative voice through professional-grade training and collaborative projects.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 34599 per year
National fee: USD 34599 per year
Local fee: USD 12999 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum allows students to select from an expansive set of classes after completing initial prerequisites. Modules may include:

Film Analysis
Filmmaking
Film History
Film Theory
Criticism
Visual Communication

Careers with Film

Graduates from Portland State University are prepared for diverse roles within the creative industries and further academic study. Many alumni have secured positions in film and television production, advertising agencies, and commercial media houses. The programme also equips students for roles in media arts education and as film programmers for international festivals and theatres.

The degree serves as a strong foundation for postgraduate education. Former students have progressed to prestigious Master of Arts and Master of Fine Arts programmes at institutions such as Columbia University, the University of Southern California, and Leeds Beckett University. Whether entering the professional workforce or pursuing a PhD, graduates possess the technical and analytical skills necessary for success.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Film Analysis

Digital Filmmaking

Classical Film Theory

Documentary Film Production

Narrative Film Production

Film History

Portfolio and Professional Development

Contemporary Film Theory

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-30 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-09-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-08-01 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

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IELTS

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Credits

180 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Portland, United States

Disciplines

Film Studies View 757 other Bachelors in Film Studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

110

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Graduate from high school and meet the following cumulative unweighted grade point average (GPA) requirements:
- 2.5 or higher = automatic admission if college prep coursework requirement met
- 2.49 or lower (or coursework requirement not met) = further admission review
Complete 15 units* of college preparatory coursework with grades of C- or better in the following areas:
- English/Language Arts: 4 units
- Math: coursework culminating in at least the completion of Algebra II
- Science: 3 units (one year of lab science is recommended) effective 2012
- Social Studies: 3 units
- Second Language: 2 units of the same language*

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Out-of-State

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

12999 USD / year

≈ 12999 USD / year

Living costs

Portland

United States

1271 - 2262 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Film.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Portland

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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