<p>I am an engineering major with a mid 70s GPA if you don’t count that one course I failed in 1st year due to personal issues. I have taken a few courses in english and cinema studies (which I have a 3.8 GPA in) and see myself more in those fields than in engineering. If I apply to grad school for them, are they going to look at my engineering grades?</p>
<p>They will see all your grades; however, they are most concerned with the grades in the courses relevant to their program. If you’ve only taken a few courses in English and cinema, it’s likely not enough preparation. English, in particular, requires a solid background in literature as well as two foreign languages. Since you’re from Canada, you’ll probably know French (depending on which part you’re from, I guess), but you should have at least started another language. You don’t have to major in English, but you have to have the background beyond a few good grades. Master’s programs will be less demanding than PhD ones, so you might want to get a master’s under your belt before applying to PhD programs, to prove that you do have the background and the ability.</p>
<p>Cinematic or film studies may be less strict about your background. I don’t know. If you are interested in production, however, you’ll definitely need some experience. </p>
<p>I strongly suggest that you visit the website of various programs to see what they require for admissions. Keep in mind that stated requirements are minimums and that actual applicants can be much more competitive.</p>
<p>Edited to add: your overall GPA will be a factor, but less of one than the grades in the relevant courses.</p>