COURSE CURRICULUM

The Film major at California State University, Sacramento requires a total of 47 units and is structured to provide students with a combination of foundational training, advanced coursework, and a specialized concentration. The curriculum begins with lower division core courses that introduce students to the fundamentals of film production and film analysis. It then progresses to upper division courses that explore film aesthetics, theory, history, and production techniques. After completing the core requirements, students select a concentration based on their interests in either Film Production or Cinema Studies.The lower division core courses total 10 units and focus on basic production and analytical skills. These courses include FILM 20A Audio Production and FILM 20B Audio Production Lab, which introduce students to sound recording and audio production techniques used in film and media. FILM 27A Digital Film/Video Production and FILM 27B Digital Film/Video Production Lab provide practical experience with digital video production tools and filmmaking processes. Students also complete ENGL 98 Introduction to Film Discourse and Analysis or ENGL 97 Introduction to Film Studies, which introduces methods for analyzing and interpreting films from critical and theoretical perspectives.The upper division core courses total 19 units and expand students’ understanding of film aesthetics, theory, and production practices. FILM/COMS 121 Media Aesthetics examines visual style and artistic expression in film and media. FILM 128 Intermediate Production develops students’ filmmaking skills through more advanced production projects. COMS 133 The Documentary Film explores documentary filmmaking and its role in communicating real-world issues. THEA/FILM 155 Contemporary World Cinema introduces students to global film traditions and modern international cinema. HIST/HRS 169 Hollywood and America examines the relationship between the Hollywood film industry and American culture. ENGL/FILM 105 Film Theory and Criticism provides a detailed study of theoretical approaches used to analyze films and cinematic storytelling.Students must then complete 18 units within one of two concentration options. One option is Film Production, which focuses on the practical and creative aspects of filmmaking. The other option is Cinema Studies, which emphasizes critical analysis, history, and cultural study of film.In the Cinema Studies option, students complete 18 units of coursework focused on film analysis and media studies. This includes COMS 142 Film as Communication, which examines film as a form of communication and cultural expression. Students also choose two additional courses such as Communication and American Culture, History of the Media, Video Art, or Television Criticism. The concentration includes a capstone course, FILM/COMS 192 Senior Seminar in Film, where students conduct advanced research and discussion on film-related topics. In addition, students select 6 units of electives in consultation with their major advisor to further develop their interests within film studies. This structured curriculum prepares students with both analytical knowledge and practical understanding of cinema and media.