(120 units)
This degree is approved for distance education by the WSCUC.
54 units required for the major.
In the Department of Cinematic Arts at California State University, Long Beach, our mission is clear: to nurture and educate the next generation of filmmakers and scholars. We are dedicated to fostering diverse voices that tell captivating stories, reflecting individual experiences and addressing broader societal issues. Our department is committed to providing every student with the tools and platform necessary to shine and excel in their chosen fields within the cinematic arts industry.
Starting in Fall 2024, we are excited to introduce a revamped core curriculum that serves as the foundation of our program. This curriculum is strategically designed around three pillars crucial for a successful career in cinema: Critical Studies, Written and Visual Storytelling, and Production Skills. As a cornerstone of our educational approach, every student is required to complete three production courses, ensuring a well-rounded skill set in practical filmmaking techniques alongside their theoretical studies.
Upon mastering the core curriculum, students have the opportunity to specialize in one of seven disciplines of focus: Cinematography, Critical Studies, Creative Nonfiction, Directing, Producing, Postproduction, or Screenwriting. This allows for a deeper dive into their area of interest, equipping them with specialized knowledge and skills. Significantly, in a departure from previous years, we have removed the portfolio requirement for entry into these disciplines of focus, making our program more accessible to all aspiring cinematic artists and scholars.
At the heart of our program is the belief in the power of storytelling and its impact on culture and technology. Through a blend of rigorous academic instruction and hands-on production experience, we aim to develop the storytellers of tomorrow-those who will innovate, inspire, and contribute meaningfully to the cinematic arts landscape.
Students are admitted to the program after completing the Major-Specific Admissions Requirements with a “C” or better along with a minimum cumulative and CSULB GPA of 2.75.
Please note: As of Fall 2024, our program requires new Major-Specific Admissions Requirements: CINE 101, CINE 201, CINE 202, CINE 207, CINE 210 and CINE 220.
There is no portfolio requirement to apply to our program.
