Cinema

What is cinema?

Virginia Tech’s cinema program blends film history, criticism, and hands-on production with a strong foundation in theatre performance. You’ll study the evolution of cinema, explore visual storytelling techniques, and examine film’s role in shaping culture and social movements. Through collaborative, project-based learning, you’ll gain practical experience in cinematography and filmmaking, working closely with peers and faculty mentors. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in the film industry and related creative fields.

Why study cinema at Virginia Tech?

Master the art of cinematography and filmmaking using industry-standard technology provided by the university —from professional cameras to editing stations and sound recording booths.
Work in a collaborative environment that encourages experimentation, creativity, and teamwork.
Learn from innovative faculty like Justin Perkinson, who develops extended reality (XR) content such as VR and 360° experiences. He uses these technologies to tell stories about aquatic wildlife conservation efforts related to rivers, seas, and oceans.
Dive into rotating upper-level courses on topics like extended reality/360° storytelling, experimental film techniques, and adventure filmmaking, which is designed for students interested in visual storytelling in nature, wildlife, adventure sports, and travel.

Showcase your work or attend screenings at regional and campus film festivals, including the Progeny Short Film Festival, which showcases student and independent filmmaking.
Apply without a portfolio — your passion for storytelling and eagerness to learn matter.
Take part in live theatre productions and gain technical experience by building sets, designing projections, and recording performances.
Join the Cinema Club to gain experience in directing, acting, or editing and to connect with fellow students who share a passion for film and storytelling.

Curriculum

What courses will I take?

To learn more about the courses you’ll take as a cinema major, review the Program Curriculum and course descriptions in the university catalog. You’ll have a variety of options to personalize your degree through electives and Pathways courses.

Careers

Meet an alum

Lanxing Fu giving AAD commencement address in Lane Stadium.

Lanxing Fu '12

“I think that I'm lucky to have gone to Virginia Tech because, from my first semester, I was allowed to be part of productions, even performing in shows, and all of the classes were very hands-on — that's what is unique about Virginia Tech. By the time I graduated, I had worked on something every semester. We could try and maybe fail, or try and get better, instead of waiting and waiting and waiting until we were 'senior enough' to try."