BA + MA Film Studies Syllabus Structure
The BA + MA Film Studies syllabus is designed to provide a strong foundation in cinema studies, visual storytelling, and film theory at the undergraduate level, followed by advanced critical, analytical, and research-based learning at the postgraduate level.
BA Year 1: Foundation in Cinema
The first year introduces students to the basics of cinema, visual language, and storytelling.
Semester 1
- Introduction to Film Studies: History of cinema, evolution of film language.
- Basics of Visual Storytelling: Shot composition, framing, and camera angles.
- Film Appreciation: Understanding narrative, genre, and aesthetics.
- Communication Skills: Academic writing and presentation skills.
Semester 2
- History of World Cinema: Hollywood, European, and Asian cinema movements.
- Indian Cinema Studies: Evolution of Hindi and regional cinema.
- Scriptwriting Basics: Story structure, characters, and dialogue.
- Media & Society: Cinema’s role in culture and social change.
BA Year 2: Core Film Studies
This year focuses on technical understanding and critical analysis of films.
Semester 3
- Film Genres: Drama, comedy, thriller, documentary, and experimental cinema.
- Editing Fundamentals: Continuity editing, montage, and rhythm.
- Cinematography Basics: Lighting, lenses, and camera movements.
- Film Criticism: Reviewing and analytical writing.
Semester 4
- Sound Design: Dialogue, background score, and sound effects.
- Direction & Production: Pre-production, shooting schedules, and budgeting.
- Documentary Cinema: Non-fiction storytelling techniques.
- Research Methodology: Academic research in film studies.
BA Year 3: Advanced Cinema Studies
The final undergraduate year develops specialization and practical exposure.
Semester 5
- Film Theory: Auteur theory, feminist film theory, and semiotics.
- New Media & Digital Cinema: OTT platforms and web series.
- Elective Paper: Acting, Screenwriting, or Film Marketing.
- Minor Project: Short film or critical dissertation.
Semester 6
- Contemporary Cinema: Global trends and emerging filmmakers.
- Internship / Industry Training: Production houses, studios, or media firms.
- Major Project: Film production or research-based study.
MA Year 1: Critical & Theoretical Studies
The postgraduate phase begins with advanced theoretical and analytical learning.
- Advanced Film Theory and Criticism
- Philosophy of Cinema
- Gender, Identity & Representation in Film
- Advanced Research Methods
- Seminars and Film Screenings
MA Year 2: Specialization & Research
This year focuses on specialization, independent research, and professional readiness.
- Specialized Electives (Direction, Screenwriting, Film Studies, or Media Studies)
- Dissertation / Thesis
- Film Festival Studies & Curation
- Viva Voce & Research Presentation
Recommended Books for Film Studies
| Subject |
Book Title |
Author |
| Film Theory |
Film Theory: An Introduction |
Robert Stam |
| World Cinema |
World Cinema: A Critical Introduction |
Ben Goldsmith |
| Screenwriting |
Story |
Robert McKee |
| Indian Cinema |
Indian Cinema |
Erik Barnouw & S. Krishnaswamy |
Syllabus FAQs
Q1: Does BA + MA Film Studies focus more on theory or practical learning?
The course maintains a balance between theory and practical exposure. Undergraduate years focus on fundamentals and skills, while postgraduate years emphasize critical theory, research, and advanced film analysis along with project work.
Q2: Are internships included in the BA + MA Film Studies syllabus?
Yes, internships or industry training are usually mandatory during the BA final year or MA phase. These provide hands-on exposure in production houses, studios, OTT platforms, or media organizations.
Q3: Can students choose specialization areas in MA Film Studies?
Yes, most universities allow specialization in areas such as Film Direction, Screenwriting, Film Studies, Media Criticism, or Documentary Cinema during the MA phase.
