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The University of Iowa played a pivotal role in establishing Film Studies as an academic discipline. As early as 1916, UIowa saw its first graduate thesis on film, with our doctoral program in Film Studies launching in 1960 (when John Kuiper completed his groundbreaking dissertation on Sergei Eisenstein under what was then known as the Division of Radio, Television and Film). Our alumni network includes numerous trailblazers in the field, such as Dudley Andrew, David Bordwell, Mary Ann Doane, Aaron Gerow, Barbara Klinger, Patrice Petro, David Rodowick, and Mitsuyo Wada-Marciano, among others. Many Iowa graduates have also received the Society of Film and Media Studies' Distinguished Career Award, the highest recognition in our discipline.
Currently, our PhD program provides rigorous training in film theory and history within a vibrant interdisciplinary setting, located in one of America's top small cities for arts and culture. Students develop essential academic skills for teaching careers while gaining valuable transferable competencies. With guaranteed funding, most graduate students obtain substantial teaching experience. Additionally, they frequently organize conferences and collaborate with local organizations like FilmScene.