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Value of a Minor

Are you interested in enhancing your studies with a minor? In addition to major areas of study, UTSA offers a variety of programs that provide valuable contributions to students' academic careers. While pursuing an undergraduate minor, students have the opportunity to explore personal interests and passions outside of their major program or complement their current major, helping them further stand out in the job market.
Professor and student working a digital camera.

Why Pursue a Minor in Film Studies?

Adding a minor in Film Studies is an excellent way to enhance your degree or follow your passion. Students will develop critical thinking and writing skills through the study of film theory, history, and culture. The program offers practical experience through internships and hands-on training, preparing students for success in a variety of careers. Coursework includes film analysis and criticism, the history of cinema, film production, and the application of film in the fine arts, humanities, and social sciences. This comprehensive approach provides students with a deeper understanding of our media-driven world and the skills to thrive in it.

View of the crowd at UTSA directors workshop

What You'll Study

Students pursuing the Minor in Film Studies will complete 18 hours selected from a variety of courses, with at least 6 upper division hours. Some courses include:

  • Basics of Screenwriting
  • History of Film
  • Film Genres and Movements
  • Film Theory
  • Digital Video Production
  • Lighting and Cinematography

This program is open to all majors! Some courses for this minor can be applied towards your degree, especially programs within the College of Liberal and Fine Arts.

Adding a Minor


Though not required, declaring a minor is an excellent way to enhance your major area of study. A minor typically consists of 6 courses (18 semester credit hours), and may have additional requirements depending on the minor selected. After being admitted to UTSA and registered for classes, students can meet with their assigned academic advisor to discuss the addition of a minor to their degree plan.

Please note, students can add a minor as long as they have earned less than 75 credit hours. However, the addition of a minor may or may not delay graduation. All requirements for the minor must be met at graduation; a minor cannot be added to a student’s degree program once they graduate. Students should meet with their assigned academic advisor to understand the impacts of adding a minor to their degree plan.
film and media multidisciplinary studies student works with camera and film equipment

Interested in Majoring in Film Studies?

UTSA offers a Bachelor of Arts in Film and Media Studies! Visit our major page to further explore this field and see if this program is the right fit for you.

View Major Page
Paul Ardoin headshot

Program Advisor

Paul Ardoin

paul.ardoin@utsa.edu