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Bachelor of Arts in Film Studies + Vancouver Film School Diploma – Wilfred Laurier University, Waterloo and Vancouver Film School, Vancouver
For students who want to blend academic study with hands-on creative training, Wilfrid Laurier University’s Bachelor of Arts in Film Studies + Vancouver Film School Diploma pathway offers a unique opportunity to launch a career in film, television, and digital media. Through Laurier’s partnership with the internationally renowned Vancouver Film School (VFS), students graduate in just four years with both an Honours Bachelor of Arts and a professional diploma, combining critical thinking, storytelling, and industry-ready skills.
A Dual Credential in Four Years
This integrated program is structured to give students the best of both worlds. Students spend their first two years at Laurier, building a strong academic foundation in film history, theory, and global cinema. Year three is completed at Vancouver Film School, where students immerse themselves in intensive, hands-on training using industry-grade facilities. In year four, students return to Laurier to complete the final requirements of their BA in Film Studies.
By the end of the program, graduates hold:
- An Honours BA in Film Studies from Laurier
- A Vancouver Film School diploma in their chosen specialization
Students who maintain a minimum 5.0 GPA at Laurier are guaranteed a spot at VFS, making this a clear and structured pathway into one of Canada’s most respected film schools.
Academic Depth Meets Industry Practice
At Laurier, Film Studies students explore cinema from both Canadian and international perspectives. Courses examine film history, genres, national cinemas, and the cultural and social impact of film, while also offering opportunities to develop practical skills in areas such as editing, animation, and screenwriting.
Sample courses include:
- Introduction to Film Art
- Film and Narrative
- Film and Society
- Classical Hollywood Film
- World Cinemas
- The Business of Film
- Screenwriting Fundamentals
Students can also graduate with a specialization in Film Production, Film Theory, or National Cinemas, and may choose complementary options or minors such as Creative Writing, Digital Humanities, User Experience Design, or Management.
Immersive Training at Vancouver Film School
In their third year, students relocate to Vancouver, often referred to as Hollywood North, to study at Vancouver Film School. VFS is internationally recognized for excellence in film, television, animation, and digital design, and places students directly into professional-style production environments.
Students choose one of five diploma options:
- Film Production
- Writing for Film, Television, and Games
- Acting for Film and Television
- 3D Animation and Visual Effects
- Digital Design
Located steps from major studios, the VFS campus features a 280-degree green screen studio, fully equipped shooting stages, advanced editing suites, and a professional screening theatre, giving students the tools and mentorship needed to bring their creative ideas to life.
Experiential Learning and Industry Connections
Throughout the degree, students are encouraged to apply their learning beyond the classroom. Laurier Film Studies students showcase their work at the Undergraduate Film Symposium, collaborate with organizations like the Grand River Film Festival, and engage with local and national film communities. These experiences help students build portfolios, develop professional networks, and gain real-world insight into the entertainment industry.
Career Pathways After Graduation
Graduates of the Laurier-VFS pathway are well positioned for a range of creative careers, including:
- Screenwriting and authorship
- Directing and cinematography
- Film and video editing
- Producing and post-production
- Script supervision
- Web and digital series production
As with many creative fields, additional training or experience may be required depending on career goals, but this program provides both the academic grounding and practical skills employers and collaborators value.
Lifelong Career Support
Laurier students are alumni for life, with continued access to Career and Employment Support well beyond graduation. Whether launching into the film industry or exploring related creative and digital fields, graduates leave with both credentials and connections to support their next steps.
Ready to explore film programs that align with your goals? Our expert educational consultants are here to help you navigate the wide range of film programs emerging across the country. Whether you’re passionate about filmmaking, screenwriting, or film studies, we can guide you to the right path. Book an appointment today to discuss how we can help you find the program that aligns with your passions and career goals.
Want to read our other program features? Check them out under our Majors and Careers topic.
