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Program Type: Undergraduate

Minor Requirements: View Requirements

Department: English


Are you a movie buff? Do you dream about going to the Sundance film festival? Are you interested in learning more about the history of movies? Are you curious about movies from around the world? Even though movies are little over a century old, they have become one of the most influential and popular art forms in the world.  

The minor in Cinema Studies will develop your critical viewing, writing, and multimedia communication skills as you learn about the history and cultural significance of movies. As the importance of visual narrative and information grows daily, the minor in Cinema Studies helps prepare you for life and a career in the digital age, whether in entertainment, communications, marketing, or social media and web design.

Program Contacts

Dr. Andrea Gazzaniga
Professor, English, Chair
859-572-5619
gazzanigaa1@nku.edu

Students in the Spotlight

Maggie Styer

Maggie Styer

Graduating Year: 2023

Education: B.S. in Neuroscience; minors in Cinema Studies and Psychology

Career: Planning on pursuing an MA in the field of Media Studies with a focus on Social Justice

"My experience in the Cinema Studies program was one of the highlights of my time at NKU. I have always had a passion for analyzing films, and this program allowed me to explore that passion and expand my knowledge. I was always excited to come to class because I knew that I would be studying what I love!"

The courses that I took focused on the idea of how movies both influence and are influenced by the culture of when and where they are made. I hope to one day work within the entertainment industry in a consulting position so that I can play a role in contributing to the culture of today and tomorrow.  

Necessary job skills: Writing and communication skills; critical thinking, interpretation, and analysis; understanding of cultural diversity.

Find Your Passions & Build Your Future

Students gathered around in a discussion
  • Work on Cinema-Related Projects: Many Cinema Studies classes features multimedia project options, including creating your own video essays and short movies. You will develop your visual and written communication abilities as you prepare for life in our complex digital world.
  • Internships: Put your skills and talents into real world action and learn how employers value what Cinema Studies minors have to offer. The Northern Kentucky/greater Cincinnati area is home to a wide range of media and branding companies, and our region has become a popular location for feature length movie production, offering you opportunities to experience what it’s like to work on set and behind the scenes.
  • Transdisciplinary Focus: The Cinema Studies minor features course options from a diverse array of programs, from Electronic Media Broadcasting to History to Music. You will meet and work with students from an equally wide collection of majors as you study and experience one of the most transdisciplinary art forms. 
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Experience NKU

Our campus is more than classrooms. It’s a hive of activity and connections that instantly feel familiar. Come walk it, take it in, check it out.

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Financial Aid

A variety of financial assistance is available, from grants to scholarships, loans to veteran benefits.