Dr. Ryan Pierson

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Ryan Pierson is an Assistant Professor at the University of Calgary with a focus on film studies. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Film Studies from the University of Georgia in 2004, followed by a Master's in Cinema Studies from New York University in 2005, and a Doctor of Philosophy in English from the University of Pittsburgh in 2012. His research primarily explores the history and theory of animation, delving into classical film theory, modernism, and the historical design aspects of animated film. One of his notable projects, 'Pragmatic Visions,' investigates the ideas of American poet Vachel Lindsay, who, in 1915, argued for the aesthetic and political engagement potential of cinema. Through his work, Pierson aims to uncover the cultural context of Lindsay’s theories and their implications for democratic practice in early 20th-century America.

Research Interests

Awards

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Naomi Lacey Resident Fellowship

Courses

FILM 30522 Topic Genre FILM 40325 Topic Director's Cinema FILM 40908 Special Topics in Film Studies FILM 591 Senior Seminar Film Studies

Requirements for University of Calgary

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:7
TOEFL
Listening
Required:20
Reading
Required:20
Writing
Required:20
Speaking
Required:20
Total
Required:97
GRE General
Verbal
Required:150
Quantitative
Required:159
Analytical Writing
Required:5.5
Overall
Required:5.5
Prerequisites
4-year Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or equivalent 3rd or 4th year course in Theory of Computation 3rd or 4th year course in Software Engineering 3rd or 4th year course in Systems (OS, Compilers, Networking) 3rd or 4th year course in Application (AI, Graphics, Databases)
Application Checklist
  • Unofficial Transcripts
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Two Letters of Reference
Specialization Notes

Department of Computer Science Master's program. GRE scores are expected for international students.