COURSES OF STUDY
225
The media production concentration asks students to produce media
texts, including film and video, web-based media, photography, art, music,
or traditional print journalism.
Students should complete either MFS 100 or MFS 201 as early as
possible, and prior to determining their concentration area.
Courses in Media and Film Studies
MFS 100 Introduction to Media Studies (1)
An introduction to critical analysis of mass media in the context of
contemporary culture and social institutions, including an examination
of how mass media, such as film, television, advertising, the Internet,
and others, affect and reflect cultural values, political attitudes,
personal identity, and behavior. Students learn basic media literacy by
developing conceptual tools for thinking critically about mass media,
with a special emphasis on (1) how various media shape and convey
meaning; and (2) the impact that the form, function, and institutional
production of media have on local, national, and global communities.
Offered yearly in the fall.
MFS 201 History of American Media (1)
An examination of the role of print media, radio and television, film,
and computer technology in shaping the transition of American society
from traditional forms of print and broadcast media to the rise of
the information age. Emphasis will be placed on students reading,
seeing, and hearing original documents, broadcasts, and photos (or
commentaries upon them). (Also listed as HI 201.) Spring.
MFS 210 Film Analysis (1)
An introduction to the fundamental concepts and tools of film analysis.
The course focuses on learning to isolate, describe, and analyze stylistic
elements of film, as well as film narrative and narration. This course
serves two purposes: to provide the necessary descriptive and analytic
tools to excel in upper-level film courses; and to deepen the student’s
appreciation of cinema by encouraging the viewing of films as richly
textured works of art.
MFS 220 Film Production I (1)
An introduction to narrative video production. The course asks students
to employ the conventions of classical storytelling to produce projects
that are clear, coherent, thoughtful, and emotionally engaging. Students
will also learn how to properly use video production equipment,
including HD video cameras, professional audio and lighting
equipment, and Final Cut Pro editing software.
