Creative Media and Film Northern Arizona University

Overview

The Creative Media and Film programme at Northern Arizona University offers an immersive environment for students to develop their voices as visual storytellers and media critics. This Bachelor of Science degree balances intensive hands-on production experience with a deep intellectual understanding of historical and cultural media trends.

Students engage with a curriculum designed to empower them to tell distinctive stories through moving images and audio. The programme begins with a foundation in theoretical and industry standards, ensuring that every creative choice is informed by aesthetic sensibility and an awareness of audience impact. This approach fosters both technical proficiency and critical thinking.

Why Creative Media and Film at Northern Arizona University?

This programme is distinguished by its focus on empowering students to tell idiosyncratic and regional stories. Facilities support a variety of creative outputs, including production house projects and independent films. The teaching features a blend of analytical thinking and professional experience, guided by expert faculty in the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences.

The institution provides a supportive community in Flagstaff, where students can collaborate on diverse media forms. Distinctive features include the opportunity to specialise in specific areas of interest, such as documentary filmmaking or media criticism. This tailored approach ensures that students build a portfolio that aligns with their specific career goals.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 29568 per year
• National fee: USD 29568 per year
• Local fee: USD 11352 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured around a shared core of communication and media courses, followed by specialised emphasis requirements. Modules may include:

• Communication Analysis
• Communication Theory
• Screenwriting
• Visual Storytelling
• Audio Production
• Editing
• Cinematography
• Media Criticism
• Senior Capstone

Students must select an emphasis area to further refine their expertise. Available options include:

Documentary Emphasis

• Documentary Production
• Sound Recording
• Research for Media
• Nonfiction Storytelling

Independent Filmmaking Emphasis

• Directing
• Lighting
• Postproduction
• Fiction Scriptwriting

Media Studies Emphasis

• Media Literacy
• Global Media
• Cultural Analysis
• Cinema Studies

Careers with Creative Media and Film

Graduates are equipped to enter the professional media industry in various capacities. Many find success within the Hollywood system or at established production houses. The skills gained also support those looking to launch their own client-based businesses or independent creative ventures.

Beyond direct film production, the programme prepares students for roles in media management, advocacy, and cultural work. The emphasis on problem-solving and communication makes graduates competitive in diverse sectors. Additionally, the degree provides a strong academic foundation for those pursuing advanced studies in cinema or digital storytelling.