What makes this program special?
Students will gain the writing and critical thinking skills so valued by employers of English majors, combined with a thorough grounding in film and media history, theory and analysis. Interesting, exciting yet rigorous classes are taught by professors with advanced degrees in their field. Small classes ensure that students get personalized attention and an excellent educational experience. In addition, students in the major can take courses with Hollywood professionals, including a director, screenwriter and cinematographer.

Are there any additional admission requirements? 
The Motion Picture Studies concentration is open to all students who are in good standing.

What scholarship monies are available?
All students are considered for merit-based scholarships at the time of admission. Additional scholarships are available based on FAFSA information.

The following scholarships apply to English majors: Taft B. and Malvery Botner Scholarships are annual awards to academically outstanding students who pursue careers in elementary education and reading. Scholarships are renewable depending upon academic performance and continued promise of success in teaching. The Katherine Causey award provides financial support for women who graduated from high schools in Alamance, Guilford, and Randolph Counties or counties west of the above-named counties in North Carolina and who are majoring in English. The Crum Scholarship is an endowed scholarship established in honor of Joseph and Mabel Crum, former members of the Western Carolina University faculty that provides support for undergraduate English majors. Other scholarships may be available. Contact the English office and the Office of Financial Aid.

What will I be able to do with this degree when I graduate?
Students will receive an English degree—the degree most valued by employers—and an education in “film language,” the business language of the future (according to a recent New York Times article). Students will be prepared to work for government, nonprofits, corporations, and other organizations, all of which use film to reach customers, persuade voters or attract clients.

What are the professors like?
The motion picture studies faculty has advanced degrees in their fields, are active scholars, and attend and present their research at national academic conferences. Research interests include documentary, industrial and educational films; post-World War II film and television history; and genre studies, including science fiction and film noir. Our screenwriter has written for motion pictures and television shows such as Stargate, SG-1, JAG, and Hill Street Blues. English professors have been honored with recognition from Pushcart, O. Henry, and the National Endowment for the Arts. The Coordinator of Motion Picture Studies advises MPS students and is committed to their intellectual and professional development.

What are the students in the program doing?
This year, a university-wide competition selected a group of students to attend the Full Frame Film Festival, the premier documentary film festival held each spring in Durham, N.C. Students enjoyed a unique educational program designed especially for them, attended the opening night party, and met documentary filmmakers, including Richard Leacock and Rachel Boynton. Students have an opportunity to meet film and television production professionals, both on and off campus.

Will I be able to participate in internships, clubs and other extracurricular opportunities?
This year, a student-led film society has emerged on campus. Sigma Tau Delta, the international English Honor Society, the English Club and other English groups are open to Motion Picture Studies students. The Spring Literary Festival brings noted novelists, poets and writers to campus.  Co-ops and internships are available and provide “real world” experience; employers will value your media studies training.

Contact

Elizabeth Heffelfinger, Assistant Professor, Coordinator of Motion Picture Studies
E-mail: Heff@email.wcu.edu
phone: 828-227-3930
Visit the Motion Picture Studies Website

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