Major code BF1924

The Tutorial Program

Because this program of study exists within the Honors Tutorial College, it is suggested that prospective students read about the college at www.ohio.edu/honors. There are five elements to the tutorial program in Film:

1. Twelve individual tutorials on topics in film studies and film production are required. Possible tutorial topics in film production include all aspects of film and video preproduction, postproduction, screenwriting, producing, directing, and special topics in film/video production. Possible tutorial topics in film studies include: film theory, criticism, history (including history of experimental, documentary, and narrative film and video), historiography, film and society, research methods, and international cinemas.
2. Liberal arts education. The nature of the film medium requires a broad background in liberal arts and a multidisciplinary approach to learning. Students are expected to select 20 credit hours of elective courses in history, English, media arts and studies, interdisciplinary arts, foreign languages, and other disciplines.
3. Production and scholarship courses in film. Breadth of understanding can often best be achieved through practical courses in film and video production and courses in film scholarship. Because film is a collaborative art, tutorial students will join with other students in the appropriate courses.
4. Minor area of specialization. The student will plan a cognate minor consisting of four courses outside the School of Film. These courses will be chosen according to the individual plan developed by the student with the director of studies. Students wishing, for example, to enter careers in producing or arts administration should complete a cognate minor in management, accounting, or business.
5. Thesis. Each student is required to complete a thesis, which might take the form of a completed video or feature-length screenplay, but will also include a substantial written portion. The topic and scope of the thesis is approved by the School of Film Committee no later than the end of fall quarter in the third year of the student’s program. The School of Film Committee (director of studies, director of the School, and two tutors) oversees the program. The director of studies assigns tutors in accordance with the student’s interests and, in consultation with the student, develops an individual plan of study leading to the degree of Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film.

Evaluation

Papers and creative work developed as part of each tutorial are discussed and evaluated by the tutor. The director of studies also consults with tutors about the progress and the strengths and weaknesses of individual students, so that subsequent tutorials can address problems and build on existing strengths. A description of each tutorial, as well as an informal evaluation, is filed by the tutor in the College office and School of Film office at the close of the quarter.

Application

The deadline to apply for admission is December 1. Please consult the Honors Tutorial College Web site for complete application information. Please submit all artwork on labeled DVD or videotape;  the School cannot accept original artwork.