COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Documentary Studies at the University at Albany provides students with a structured yet flexible program focused on understanding and creating documentary work across multiple media formats. The curriculum introduces students to the history and theory of documentary expression through platforms such as print, photography, audio, film, and web-based media. This foundation helps students understand how documentary storytelling has evolved and how it functions in contemporary society. The program includes a core course, Introduction to Documentary Studies, along with a senior capstone experience in the form of a Documentary Studies Seminar and Fieldwork Practicum, where students apply their knowledge in real-world settings. A major component of the degree consists of 36 elective credits drawn from disciplines such as journalism, communication, art, art history, music, and documentary studies, allowing students to tailor their academic experience to their specific interests. In addition, students complete four skills-based courses that build practical expertise in areas such as photography, digital imaging, film production, web design, journalism, audio production, and multimedia storytelling. These courses include options like documentary photography, narrative journalism, broadcast journalism, transmedia storytelling, and digital media production. Through this combination of theory and hands-on practice, students develop strong abilities in research, writing, editing, and multimedia production. The program prepares graduates for careers in journalism, media production, digital storytelling, publicity, and advocacy, while also providing a strong foundation for graduate study in related fields.