VCU's Cinema Program, like those at UCLA and USC, prepares undergraduate filmmakers through a Bachelor of Arts (BA*) degree with a liberal arts emphasis. It builds on the success of the School’s graduates whose work has been recognized by multiple Academy Awards, Emmy Awards, and the Sundance Film Festival.

Full-time BA Film majors can graduate after three years of full-time study as a result of credits earned in the summer Production Intensives, and are encouraged to earn a second major in a non-arts field.

BA Film students focus on narrative films using new digital technologies that are becoming the standard for independent filmmakers.  A key element of the degree is developing an understanding of the techniques of writing screenplays.  All production work is based on short scenes and screenplays written by students in the program.

U.S. independent films have similarities with European cinema, so BA Film students have international options including the VCU French Film Festival on campus. Internships are available with film organizations and production companies.

Film production is taught in two intensive summer terms focusing on the creation of short digital films in a professional production environment. Production intensives are taught by working filmmakers with high-end digital equipment.


How to Apply: BA (Bachelor of Arts) in Film

Submit recommendation form and completed VCU application. As part of your VCU application essay (complete the "Education and Life" essay), let us know about your interest in filmmaking and your passions outside of film. Film BA majors in the Cinema Program do not go through the Art Foundation Program.

Note: For animation and experimental video BFA, see Kinetic Imaging. For documentary and narrative film BFA, see Photography & Film.

Important - if you are applying online to the Cinema Program for the Film BA,
please select another major (Photography and Film is recommended), then email agmusselmang@vcu.edu and simply request to change the major in your application to Film BA.

Send all materials to:
Undergraduate Admissions 821 W Franklin Street Richmond, VA 23284-2526

Visit our departmental site at http://www.vcu.edu/arts/cinema/

*Pending approval by SCHEV