What major in college do you study to become a movie critic?

Question

I'm thinking about becoming a movie critic. What major(s) in college do you take to become this?

Answer 1

Since most movie critics don't immediately wind up on TV, you'll want to learn how to write well. And, of course, you'll want to study the technical aspects of film. There is no one major that leads to becoming a film critic, but there are sensible choices that can help you meet your goal.

Look for schools that offer journalism classes as well as a wide variety of cinema studies classes--classes in film history, the film making process, etc. You don't need to major in journalism or cinema studies, but you're going to want to take classes in both these areas. Additionally, try to get a job for the college paper writing film reviews.

One school you should definitely take a look at is Syracuse.
http://newhouse.syr.edu/prospective/undergrad/index.cfm

I also recommend seeing lots and lots of classic movies. You can use the AFI lists as a guide, and TCM is always showing great classic films.
http://www.afi.com/tvevents/100years/quotes.aspx

Answer 2

Definitely major or minor in film studies, if it is available. Journalism would be good, and also working as a critic for the college newspaper. Literature would be good as well.

Answer 3

At universities you usually would try a degree in English Lit with a minor in Theatre & Film. This is very common at my University in Bowling Green, Ohio

Answer 4

at FSU (where I go to school) you would major in film, but you could go any route. english, philosophy, communications...things like that. basically with good writing skills you should do well. check which college you want to go to and see what they have to offer. you could also call an advisor there to see what path would fit you best.