Overview

The Film and Media Studies programme at Columbia University provides a comprehensive academic foundation in the history, theory, and cultural significance of the moving image. Students explore the evolution of cinema from its technological origins to its contemporary role as a vital social institution. This major is designed for those seeking to understand film as an art form or pursue professional careers within the global media industry.

Why Film and Media Studies at Columbia University?

Students benefit from a curriculum that balances rigorous historical survey with practical workshops in filmmaking and screenwriting. The department offers unique opportunities to work on graduate student productions and participate in the Columbia Undergraduate Film Productions, a student-run organisation. The programme's location in New York City facilitates access to diverse internship opportunities with leading film companies, archives, and international festivals.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 70170 per year
National fee: USD 70170 per year
Local fee: USD 70170 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum progresses from introductory frameworks to advanced seminars in theory and national cinemas. Modules may include:

Film and Media Theory
Cinema History
Writing Film Criticism
Fiction Filmmaking
Screenwriting
Nonfiction Filmmaking
Documentary Tradition
Auteur Study
Experimental Film & Media

Careers with Film and Media Studies

Graduates are prepared for a wide variety of roles within the creative and cultural sectors. Alumni frequently secure positions in film distribution, publicity, and archival management. Many pursue careers as screenwriters, directors, or producers, while others transition into roles within film festivals or continue their studies at the graduate level to become influential teachers and scholars in the field.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Cinema History

Genre Study

Topics in American Cinema

Topics in World Cinema

Script Analysis

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

135

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TOEFL^® IBT

105

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

Prepare for Your English Test

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Manhattan, United States

Disciplines

Film Studies Media Studies & Mass Media View 756 other Bachelors in Film Studies in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

135

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

105

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

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

Autobiographical information

Lists and descriptions of a student’s achievements, activities, employment and summer activities

Personal essay

An official high school transcript from all high schools attended

One high school counselor’s recommendation and school profile

The completed Mid-Year Report

SAT or ACT

Applicants may self-report their scores

English proficiency examination score (if necessary)

These recommendations must come from teachers who taught you in academic disciplines

For engineering applicants, one must come from a math or science teacher

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

70170 USD / year

≈ 70170 USD / year
Out-of-State

70170 USD / year

≈ 70170 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

70170 USD / year

≈ 70170 USD / year

Living costs

Manhattan

United States

2638 - 5751 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 and Media Studies.

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

Manhattan

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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