Engaging the History, theory,
and production of world cinema
history
theory
production
“The Film Studies Program examines the moving image globally across a range of industrial and artisanal contexts, and encourage students to understand cinema as an art, business, and technology.”
Kaveh Askari
director of film studies
MSU Film Studies Program
Degree Areas
Film Studies
BA & MINOR
In-depth training in the analysis of cinematic style and aesthetics, the history of film, and theory and criticism.
Film Studies
GRADUATE CERTIFICATE
Focusing on the methodologies, practices, and disciplinary concerns relevant for conducting advanced research and teaching in film studies.
Fiction Filmmaking
MINOR
Bringing film production and analysis together students to produce theoretically informed and culturally engaged work.
Documentary Film Production
MINOR
Exploring the challenges of representing reality through documentary filmmaking.
featured News
New Chapter: College Integration Strengthens Arts and Humanities at MSU
A new chapter at Michigan State University begins July 1, 2026, as the College of Arts & Letters and Residential College in the Arts and Humanities (RCAH) officially integrate, creating new opportunities for students, faculty, and the campus community while strengthening the arts and humanities at MSU. The integration brings
Toronto International Film Festival: Highlight of Academic Career for Film Studies Major
Rachel Helzerman is a Film Studies major from Ypsilanti, Michigan, who attended the 50th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September 2025 as part of the education abroad program offered by the Film Studies Program at Michigan State University. She shares her experience with this program and why it is
MSU Film Studies Faculty Member Wins First Round in Second Chance Tournament on ‘Jeopardy!’
Michigan State University faculty member Pete Johnston fulfilled a lifelong dream when he first appeared on a July episode of “Jeopardy!” While Johnston came in second place in July, he took first place in the “Jeopardy!” Second Chance Tournament game Dec. 17 and also in the resulting two-game finals Dec.