Film and Media Studies Career Outlook

A program in the visual arts that focuses on the study of the history, development, theory, and criticism of the film/video arts, as well as the basic principles of film making and film production.

To find out more about your major including potential areas and employers, required skills, job outlook, and median pay, please access the Occupational Outlook Handbook or O*Net websites.

Career Outlook

Explore the subsections below to learn more about the potential skills a student with a Film and Media Studies major can develop as well as the potential positions, areas, and employers that hire students with this degree. Please note that these are not exhaustive lists and should be used as a starting point.

Skills

As a Film and Media Studies major, students may develop or advance skills including research and analysis, writing and public speaking, attention to detail, critical thinking, problem solving, strong intercultural understanding, time management, and overall professionalism.

Positions

Graduates with a degree in Film and Media Studies can work as public relations specialists, journalists, freelance writers, publishers, editors, advertising coordinators, creative writers, grant writers, technical writers, authors, educators, social media specialists, web content managers, artists, broadcasters, entertainers, researchers, account managers, fundraisers, lobbyists, production editors, scriptwriters, speechwriters, marketers, videographers, radio/podcasters, media sales associates, political activists, corporate communication professionals.

Areas

Graduates with a degree in Film and Media Studies can work within the following areas: business, sales, customer service, human resources, film studios, theatre, corporate communication, office management, public relations, advertising, media, broadcasting, newspapers, arts councils, research, grant writing, volunteer coordination, religious work, community affairs, conflict negotiation, social service, law, education, fundraising and development.

Employers

Graduates with a degree in Film and Media Studies can work for businesses, government agencies (local/state), labor unions, financial institutions, insurance companies, consulting firms, manufacturers, computer companies, retailers, hotels and restaurants, entertainment companies, real estate firms, hospitals and healthcare organizations, public relations firms, radio and television companies, theatres, independent production companies, sports and entertainment companies, publishers, libraries/museums, hospitality and tourism industries, nonprofits, professional associations, foundations, religious organizations, community centers, political parties, court systems, law firms, legal aid societies, consulting firms, colleges and schools.

Helpful Resources

Use the employment opportunity resources below to kickstart your preprofessional and or professional experience search. You may also identify a professional or student organization to join and network with individuals in your major and field. Please note that these are not exhaustive lists and should be used as a starting point.