2023-2024 BSC Catalog Updated_UG ONLY_FINAL[82]

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
213
MFS - Media and Film Studies
MFS 100 Introduction to Media Studies (1)
An introduction to critical analysis of mass media in the context of contemporary culture
and social institutions, including an examination of how mass media, such as film,
television, advertising, the Internet, and others, affect and reflect cultural values, political
attitudes, personal identity, and behavior. Students learn basic media literacy by
developing conceptual tools for thinking critically about mass media, with a special
emphasis on how various media shape and convey meaning; and the impact that the form,
function, and institutional production of media have on local, national, and global
communities. Fall.
MFS 177, 277, 377, 477 Special Topics in Media and Film Studies (1)
An exploration of a selected topic or problem in media and film studies. This course may
be repeated once for credit providing that the focus of the course is different.
Prerequisite: MFS 210 for MFS 377; MFS 220 for MFS 477.
MFS 210 IA Film Analysis (1)
An introduction to the fundamental concepts and tools of film analysis. The course
focuses on learning to isolate, describe, and analyze stylistic elements of film, as well as
film narrative and narration. This course serves two purposes: to provide the necessary
descriptive and analytic tools to excel in upper-level film courses; and to deepen the
student’s appreciation of cinema by encouraging the viewing of films as richly textured
works of art. Laboratory required. An Interpretation or Analysis designated course.
MFS 220 CE Film Production (1)
An intensive introduction to both documentary and fiction video production. The course
asks students to employ the conventions of classical storytelling to produce projects that
are clear, coherent, thoughtful, and emotionally engaging. Students will also learn
narrative structure, cinematography, sound, digital editing, and the state of the
contemporary film industry. Extensive filmmaking will occur on several weekends
throughout the term. A Creative Expression designated course. Prerequisite: AR 222,
MFS 100, MFS 210, or MFS 222.
MFS 222 CE Screenwriting (1)
An examination of screenwriting using classical narrative structure. The course focuses
on conventional storytelling elements like goals, conflicts, development, and resolution
and how these are employed to clearly tell a story, engage the viewers’ attention, and
elicit emotions from the audience. Emphasis is placed on using classical storytelling
devices in a coherent and creative manner. A Creative Expression designated course.
MFS 245 Producing Motion Pictures and Television (1)
An exploration of the role of the producer as the creative force behind motion picture and
television production. The course will guide a student from development to the screen.
Birmingham-Southern College Catalog 2023-2024