Film Studies
Film Studies
Step Into the World of Cinematic Storytelling
If you love telling stories, Southern Miss Film Studies gives you the tools to turn ideas into cinematic experiences. Whether you dream of directing, writing scripts, or creating stunning visual effects, you’ll learn by doing—collaborating on real film projects, building your portfolio, and mastering the art of storytelling. Housed on our beautiful Gulf Coast campus, you’ll work with professional-grade cameras, lighting, and editing tools in newly renovated studios designed to bring your creative vision to life.
What Will I Learn?
In Film Studies, you won’t just watch films—you’ll make them. You’ll learn how to:
- Write and develop scripts that connect with audiences.
- Direct and produce films, leading teams from concept to final cut.
- Operate cameras and lighting to create cinematic visuals.
- Edit and design sound using industry-standard software and techniques.
- Explore film history and genres to understand the craft and its evolution.
- Experiment with visual effects and emerging technologies that push storytelling forward.
All students in the school are highly encouraged to do at least one internship during
their college career. We know that internships are among the best indicators of successful
placement after graduation. Student are encouraged to attend one of the regular internship
meetings each semester to learn how internships work and how the school can assist
in acquiring one. Recent internships have included a variety of television and live
production positions, as well as many social media and other content creation jobs.
Each year the USM Foundation awards over $20,000 in scholarship funds geared toward students majoring in the School of Media and Communication. Using the Golden Opportunities (GO) Scholarship and Competitive Programs Application System, students can easily search, review requirements, apply and accept awards for available scholarship opportunities. Apply for scholarships through the GO system.
Picture Your Future in Film
Graduates of Southern Miss Film Studies enter the industry with more than just a degree—they leave with a polished portfolio, professional set experience, and a network of industry contacts. From internships and film festivals to collaborations with local studios, you’ll have opportunities to showcase your work and step confidently into roles in directing, screenwriting, production, or visual effects.
Availability
| Degree Plan | Availability |
|---|---|
| Film Studies BA | Gulf Park |
| Film Minor | Gulf Park |
- Commercial Producer
- Sound Engineer
- Videographer
- Video Film Editor
- Talent and Event Manager
- Screen Writer
- Tena Clark, 1976
songwriter, producer, CEO and chief creative officer, DMI Music & Media Solutions - Alex Vanderleest, 2013
Brand Partnerships, MilkMoney Inc.
- David Sheffield, 1972,
film and television writer - Diego Velasco, 1995,
film writer-director-producer
- Makareta Rademakers, 2017,
Sports Production, Sky TV New Zeland - Zach Ball, 2015
DIT/Colorist, Mad Genius Labs, INC