Purdue University College of Liberal Arts
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Q: What does IDIS mean?
A. IDIS stands for Interdisciplinary Studies. In order to make a greater variety of programs available to students, the College of Liberal Arts established a number of programs which draw on faculty from various departments. At this time the courses in the Film/Video Studies program are taught primarily by faculty and professional staff in the departments of Foreign Languages and Literatures, English, Hall of Music Productions, and Communication. Students are also encouraged to take relevant courses in Visual and Performing Arts, History, and Computer Graphics Technology.
2. Q: What, exactly, is the name of this program? At times it is referred to as Film Studies, at others as Film/Video Studies?
A. This program was born some 30 years ago as the Film Studies Program. Over time, as filmmakers began to use other media, the name of the program was expanded to include Video. Given the ongoing digital revolution, we are in the process of searching for a name that better describes our program and that encompasses the unpredictable future. We welcome your suggestions.
3. Q: What does the Film/Video Studies program offer me?
A. Our Film/Video Studies program has always offered an excellent liberal arts education in foreign national cinemas, film history, film criticism, ethnic and gender studies, and introductory courses in various aspects of production. More recently, we have begun to offer professionally oriented production courses in developing media. Technical Video Production I, is a general introduction to theory and practice of digital media production. Advanced Video Production, gets you inside the equipment to learn how to trouble-shoot the equipment that makes the magic happen. In AVID Non-Linear Editing, the student will gain both knowledge and understanding of the editing process and have hands-on experience with the industry standard for non-linear video editing. Practicum in Video/Media Production, allows you to further develop your skills in various areas of specialization and is intended to prepare our students for careers in a real-world environment.
4. Q: What is the relationship of Hall of Music Productions and the Film/Video Studies program? Why is Hall of Music Productions teaching Film/Video Studies production courses?
A. Hall of Music Productions is teaching our production courses because it has the staff, the equipment, the venues, and the real-world environment required to offer our students the best possible technical education and training. Furthermore, by teaching our majors and minors, the Hall of Music Productions is contributing to the education mission of Purdue University. Click on the link to read the reflections on the Mission and Vision of the Hall of Music Productions by its Director, Steve Hall. See also Hall of Music Productions - 2003/04: Making an Impact - Making a Difference.
5. Q: What kinds of experiential training can I expect as a Film Video Studies major?
A. For a partial list of student internships and other FVS student activities see: News and Events.
6. Q: What kinds of jobs can a Film Video Studies major expect to find upon graduation?
A. For a very partial list of alumni jobs see: Alumni.