SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY · CANADA
Film Major (Bachelor of Fine Arts)
Bachelor's · Taught in en
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- 120 unitsTotal Program Length
- InterdisciplinaryLearning Environment
- Creative, technical, and analytical focusSkill Development
- Emphasis on original workProduction Focus
- Opportunity for directed studyIndependent Learning
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) with a major in Film at Simon Fraser University offers a comprehensive program combining creative, technical, and analytical studies within an interdisciplinary arts environment. The curriculum focuses on developing original film and video work alongside essential technical skills. Complementary film studies courses explore the aesthetic, social, and critical issues relevant to contemporary film and video practices. Students are encouraged to broaden their experience through interdisciplinary studies and projects, with opportunities for independent directed study available for advanced students. This program is distinct from the Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art, Performance and Cinema Studies (APSC), which focuses more on the historical, critical, or theoretical aspects of cinema. Entry into the Film major is competitive and may require an audition, interview, or application, in addition to university admission. Students typically begin their studies in the Fall term.
Curriculum
The BFA Film program requires students to complete 120 units. The curriculum is structured with lower division requirements followed by upper division coursework. Students are expected to maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.67 in their Film (CA) courses to remain in the major. The program emphasizes careful planning due to the sequential nature of many courses and their availability on a rotational basis. Students are encouraged to consult with an advisor.
- Lower Division
- Art and the Moving ImageCA 186
- Interdisciplinary Studio - Composition/CollaborationCA 285
- Fundamentals of FilmCA 130
- Filmmaking ICA 131
- The History and Aesthetics of Cinema ICA 136
- The History and Aesthetics of Cinema IICA 137
- Filmmaking IICA 230
- Filmmaking IIICA 231
- One lower division CA course outside of film
Careers
Graduates of the BFA Film program are prepared for a variety of roles in the film and media industries. The program's focus on both creative production and analytical skills provides a strong foundation for diverse career paths.
- Filmmaker
- Video Artist
- Production Crew
- Post-Production Specialist
- Film Critic
- Media Researcher
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Film Major (BFA) program?
- Applicants must first be admitted to Simon Fraser University. Entry to the Film Major then requires an audition, interview, or application process through the School for the Contemporary Arts, with specific procedures and deadlines to be obtained directly from them.
- What is the duration and structure of the BFA Film program?
- The program requires students to complete 120 units, structured with lower division requirements followed by upper division coursework. Students typically begin their studies in the Fall term.
- How do I apply to the BFA Film Major?
- First, apply for admission to Simon Fraser University. After university admission, you must contact the School for the Contemporary Arts in January prior to your intended Fall start for specific Film Major application procedures, which may include preparing a portfolio, audition, or interview.
- What career paths can I pursue with a BFA in Film?
- Graduates are prepared for various roles in the film and media industries, including Filmmaker, Video Artist, Production Crew, Post-Production Specialist, Film Critic, and Media Researcher.
- Are there specific tuition fees for international students in the Film Major program?
- Tuition fees for international students vary by program and the number of units taken. Prospective students should refer to SFU's official tuition schedule for the most up-to-date information.
Entry requirements
University AdmissionSuccessful admission to Simon Fraser University is required for program entry.
Film Major ApplicationEntry to the Film Major is by audition, interview, or application. Specific procedures and deadlines should be obtained from the School for the Contemporary Arts.
Program AdmissionStudents may apply for program admission after completing CA 231, typically by the end of their second year. Approval is based on creative work and academic record in required lower-division courses.
Students are advised to contact the School for the Contemporary Arts in January prior to their intended Fall start for program entry information and requirements. Not all courses are offered every term, and some are on a rotational basis. Planning with an advisor is strongly recommended.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees vary by program and number of units taken. Please refer to SFU's official tuition schedule for the most up-to-date information.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees vary by program and number of units taken. Please refer to SFU's official tuition schedule for the most up-to-date information.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided on the program page. Prospective students should consult university resources for general cost of living estimates in the area.
Film production courses may require personal funding in addition to lab fees.
How to apply
1. University ApplicationApply for admission to Simon Fraser University.
2. Contact the School for the Contemporary ArtsInquire about the Film Major program requirements and application procedures. It is recommended to do this in January prior to your intended Fall start.
3. Obtain Application MaterialsRequest the information letter and questionnaire for program entry if required.
4. Prepare Portfolio/Audition/InterviewGather creative work samples and prepare for any required audition or interview as instructed by the SCA.
5. Submit Program ApplicationSubmit your application to the Film Major program, which may occur after completing specific lower-division courses (e.g., CA 231).
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Film Major (BFA) program?
+
Applicants must first be admitted to Simon Fraser University. Entry to the Film Major then requires an audition, interview, or application process through the School for the Contemporary Arts, with specific procedures and deadlines to be obtained directly from them.
What is the duration and structure of the BFA Film program?
+
The program requires students to complete 120 units, structured with lower division requirements followed by upper division coursework. Students typically begin their studies in the Fall term.
How do I apply to the BFA Film Major?
+
First, apply for admission to Simon Fraser University. After university admission, you must contact the School for the Contemporary Arts in January prior to your intended Fall start for specific Film Major application procedures, which may include preparing a portfolio, audition, or interview.
What career paths can I pursue with a BFA in Film?
+
Graduates are prepared for various roles in the film and media industries, including Filmmaker, Video Artist, Production Crew, Post-Production Specialist, Film Critic, and Media Researcher.
Are there specific tuition fees for international students in the Film Major program?
+
Tuition fees for international students vary by program and the number of units taken. Prospective students should refer to SFU's official tuition schedule for the most up-to-date information.