Narrative Studies prepares students for the development and evaluation of original content for novels, films, theatre and other narrative platforms, but recognizes that the range of professional opportunities in literature and the performing arts is much wider than the roles of author, screenwriter or playwright. To recognize a good story, to critique, help shape, realize and transform it, requires a background in the history of narrative, crosscultural and contemporary models, and an understanding of the broader context of popular culture.

Narrative Studies assumes that an effective narrative will be adapted from the medium in which it first appears as new media become available. To prepare students for a future in which the platform is likely to change, the Bachelor of Arts in Narrative Studies allows students to study across the current platforms while concentrating on the techniques of effective construction common to them all.

Requirements

The Narrative Studies major requires 40 units distributed across an introductory course ENGL 270g, six required categories, two upper-division electives, and a senior capstone project. Of the 40 units, only 12 units can be from schools outside of Dornsife (i.e. Cinematic Arts, Thornton, Roski, Dramatic Arts, etc.) and only 12 units can be lower-division (100-200 level).