Question by LadyDaysDay: How to formally study film history?
I graduated recently with a BA in English and I’d love to formally (for Masters or beyond) study the history of film formally. I’m an amateur film buff but am growing in knowledge of the field all the time and one day I’d love to write articles, essays, perhaps even books on particular film history-related topics.
Thing is… I’m not interested in learning to make films myself. Does anyone know of any schools (online programs would be of particular interest) that offer degrees or even certificates in this field, or would I have to study film as a whole, including production? Most of what I see is at the Bachelor’s level. I’d rather not have to get another Bachelor’s degree but if I need to take classes, what is a good school for history of film (again, I’ve got to emphasize online)?
Please name specific schools, programs, and link me. If you’ve got other ideas or information of how to make my dream a realtiy, that is fine too.
I’m already a teacher and I’d be interested in teaching or writing about film. It is my passion and that’s why I’m interested in studying it. I have the opportunity to receive tuition reimbursement so even though money is a factor it isn’t what I would solely base my decision on.
Best answer:
Answer by James R
Well if you just want to do it for fun and have money to burn L.A. film school and colleges in the area have history of film. But seriously consider where you are going with this. You will more than likely have to take out loans to pay for this and then soemhow get a job. You already have an english degree which is ok for teaching. But grad school in film is not the answer.
I know a teacher that teaches film history at a JC and I guess its ok if thats what you want to do but you should seriously consider how a graduate degree will help my social mobility. I know lots of 40 yr olds in LA just waiting around to make it bug. They have been there for 20 yrs not doing anything. So seriously consider whether or not you are serious about studying film history at an MA program over studying something else at a graduate level.
What do you think? Answer below!