Film and Digital Media
Overview
The Film and Digital Media curriculum integrate creative hands-on experience with a fundamental education in film aesthetics, history, and theory.
The interdisciplinary program provides a variety of courses in related fields including theatre, film, video, and arts technology. You'll have great flexibility to choose courses tailored to your career interests, such as critical studies, film and video production, directing, and screenwriting.
Point of Pride
Students write, create, direct, and produce their original work. They collaborate and take leadership in individual and thesis projects. Production students have the opportunity to work closely with theatre acting majors. Critical studies and creative writing students present their work at local and regional symposiums.
Why study Film and Digital Media?
Film was arguably the most important art form of the 20th century. Everybody went to the movies. In the 21st century, film and digital media are changing. Online videos go viral. Feature films have been shot with cell phones. Green screens and CGI are used to shape intimate scenes or explore imaginary worlds.
At the same time, the basic elements of moving picture art remain unchanged: visual storytelling, dramatic performances, expressive editing, creative recording of sounds, and a direct link between the medium and the “real world” it captures. And behind it all there is still a person with a camera and a vision.
The Film and Digital Media program invites you to explore traditional and new realms, enrich your experience of viewing American and international films, and nurture your vision of creating visual art. The integration of production training and academic education will prepare you for an exciting journey of realizing your artistic vision in powerful performances, sounds and images.
Schedule a Visit
Come see campus and meet with campus representatives either in person or virtually. Optional chances to meet with academic department, honors, and financial aid.
How to Apply
Applying to Illinois State
Applying by our priority deadline is encouraged for best consideration for your academic program and for scholarships. Start your application today!
Audition and Enrollment Process
- Apply to Illinois State University
- Receive a confirmation email from School of Theatre, Dance, and Film
- Upload portfolio materials for scholarship consideration (optional)
- Receive a decision within two weeks
- Submit your enrollment deposit and become a Redbird
Scholarship notification will take place the first week of March.
Program Requirements
The School of Theatre, Dance, and Film applies the same academic standards as those required for admission to Illinois State University. There is no separate SAT/ACT or GPA requirement for admission to the School of Theatre, Dance, and Film.
Any student accepted by Illinois State University may declare a major in Film and Digital Media. No audition or interview is required, although Film and Digital Media majors may upload portfolio materials for departmental scholarship consideration. Faculty from Film and Digital Media will view your materials.
Upload one of the following to getacceptd.com/illinoisstate:
- Film Review: A 600–800-word review of a film of your choice.
- Visual Submission: Either a short video (up to 5 minutes) or a series of 5-10 photos.
- Short Screenplay: A screenplay within 10 pages.
- Personal Statement or Self-Video: A written personal statement or a self-recorded video (up to 5 minutes) explaining why you want to study film, what film means to you, and why you believe ISU is the place to achieve your goals.
If you have any questions or would like to visit a film class and meet with faculty, please email Cristen Monson.
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