Directed Study
FMS students may undertake a semester-long Directed Study of their choice, which allows them to do independent, in-depth, self-directed work as scholars and/or artists under the direction of one FMS faculty advisor.
This independent study is for FMS seniors and juniors who have a strong interest in an area of study in which there are no courses being offered, or who want to do advanced work beyond regularly offered courses. Requires regular meetings with faculty member and in depth research. Result is typically a long research paper or creative work. Departmental permission required.
The directed study can take many forms. Examples include:
- an extended essay of film or media scholarship
- a short film—scripted live-action, animation, or documentary non-fiction
- a feature-length screenplay
- a selection of teleplays for an original TV show
- a public relations, advertising, or marketing campaign
- a work of long-form journalism
The FMS directed study requires students to submit an application after discussing their project with an intended faculty advisor. If approved, enrollment in FMS-0195 is required.
Submit a Directed Study Proposal
Behind the scenes of Wilbur, The King, a 2025 directed study project
Criteria for a Directed Study
- Discuss your proposal with your potential directed study advisor prior to submitting proposal.
- Submit a directed study proposal two weeks prior to course registration for the upcoming semester. The proposal must include:
- project title and area of research
- project details
- courses, internships, and other experiences that have prepared you to complete a directed studies project
- If approved, register for FMS-0195 for the upcoming semester. Please note:
- FMS-0195 is 3 credits.
- Only one directed study can be applied toward the FMS major degree. To view all degree policies, visit the FMS Academics page.
Directed Study Funding
Directed study projects may qualify for the Tufts Undergraduate Research Fund. Please visit the website for details.