Overview

The Motion Pictures programme at Wright State University provides students with a comprehensive foundation in the cinematic arts through a blend of practical craft and academic analysis. Students can choose between a professional production track or a liberal arts focus on film history and criticism. This curriculum ensures that graduates are well-versed in both the technical demands of the industry and the cultural impact of visual storytelling.

Why Motion Pictures at Wright State University?

Students benefit from a faculty of seasoned film professionals whose work has been recognised by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. The programme is housed in the state-of-the-art Tom Hanks Center for Motion Pictures, offering dedicated spaces for directing, cinematography, and art direction. The university’s strong industry reputation is bolstered by alumni success in major Hollywood productions and international film festivals. Additionally, the annual Big Lens Film Festival provides a high-profile platform for students to showcase their original work to the public.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 11000 per semester
National fee: USD 11000 per semester
Local fee: USD 5908 per semester

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

Syllabus

The curriculum balances technical production skills with deep theoretical exploration. Modules may include:

Motion Picture Production
Cinema and Sexuality
Romantic Comedy
Italian Neorealism
Philosophy and Film
Feminist Film Theory
Film Noir
Screenwriting
Cinematography

Junior and Senior years focus on major projects, where students collaborate on 16mm sound films or produce independent thesis videos to demonstrate their mastery of the medium.

Careers with Motion Pictures

Graduates are prepared for a wide array of roles within the film and television sectors. Many alumni secure positions as Hollywood cinematographers, feature film producers, or special effects artists. The programme also equips students for careers in advertising as creative directors, or in journalism and screenwriting. Those focusing on the theoretical track often find success in film archiving, festival management, or academic teaching. Notable employers and industries include professional production companies, arts organisations, and international media outlets.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

The Moving Image

History of the Motion Picture

Documentary Film: History and Theory

Studies in Film History

Studies in Film Authorship

Studies in Film Theory

Advanced Studies in Media

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-20 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-08-15 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-01-12 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-10 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-20 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-30 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

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110

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IELTS

5.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Dayton, 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

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

5.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

International Application Checklist

Submit a copy of your passport information page showing your photo, name, and date of birth.

Complete the admission application and submit your $30 non-refundable application fee.

Refer to the Required Documents section to find a list of missing documents. Upload your documents in either PDF or JPEG format.

Upload your complete, official academic record from ALL high schools, secondary schools, colleges, and/or universities, or intensive English programs you have attended.

Submit an I-20 request form and current official bank statement in U.S. dollars.

Submit your SAT scores/ACT scores. These are not mandatory, but help in scholarship decisions.

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

22000 USD / year

≈ 22000 USD / year
Out-of-State

22000 USD / year

≈ 22000 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

11816 USD / year

≈ 11816 USD / year

Living costs

Dayton

United States

880 - 1352 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 Motion Pictures.

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

Dayton

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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