"I can’t think of anything better for film majors than to study abroad. The act of travel and exploration in new places is the submission to an entirely new way of visual learning. The first step in filmmaking is coming to an understanding of the greater story. Exposing yourself to a place and people you have never experienced before is the process of opening your eyes to the greater frame."

- Kirk Rasmussen, Film & Video student

Film and Video Study Abroad Programs

Can you see yourself kicking really old school using 16mm film to capture centuries-old architecture in Prague, coordinating a captivatingly colorful Bollywood set in India, or creating a documentary while learning survival skills and hiking through the Himalayas? Whether you are looking to pursue opportunities focusing on the theoretical or through practice, studying abroad can instill a sense of independence and self-awareness that is critical to anyone in the film industry. 

Opportunities for Film & Video majors include a faculty-led program in London, England that fulfills credit for your communication core classes. Alternatively, venture to places like the University of Nicosia on the island of Cyprus and take courses like “Film Production Management” and “Music TV - On Air” (Global Semesters). Consider studying at the Prague Film and Television School in Czech Republic (CIEE) where you can take courses such as “Feature Screenwriting” and “The Cinematographer's Influence.” Any of these opportunities are beneficial to personal and professional growth and can also fuel inspiration for independent studies and thesis work.

Whether you are gathering inspiration for screenwriting or cinematography, working towards your major through the lens of fresh perspective, or having meaningful discussions about the meaning of storytelling in today’s society—it’s almost certain that study abroad will have a profound impact on you.

Academic Advice

• Students may take courses that satisfy some requirements in Film & Video or the General Education program. Be sure to begin planning at least six months in advance.
• Students do not need to speak a foreign language in order to study in a country where English is not the official language.
• An internship abroad will not only give students experience and insights into their specific field of interest, but will help them develop desirable cross-cultural skills and competency.
• Consider fulfilling your Issues General Education requirement abroad. Find out how!

Restrictions

• Students may NOT take any Senior Thesis Course (498 numbers for CAP, CBR, CFV, CJR, HCOM, COM, CPH and CTH) abroad. 
• Courses will be reviewed on a case by case basis through the course equivalency process.

Keep in Mind

• Once you have selected a program, be sure to meet with your adviser at least three months prior to departing for your program.
• Be sure to explore both GVSU and external options by browsing the Program Suggestions below. Students are not limited to GVSU study abroad programs
• Fulfill General Education requirements abroad, including General Education Issues requirement

To determine the GVSU course equivalencies for courses taken abroad, please view the “How to Request Course Equivalencies” page. For more information email Department Contact below.

Paul Wittenbraker

1105 Calder Art Center

[email protected]