Call for Applications: 2026 Full Frame Duke Faculty Program

Deadline: Apply by February 27, 2026.  

People talk while standing in line outside a theater.

The Duke Center for Documentary Studies (CDS) announces a new Full Frame Documentary Film Festival Duke Faculty Program, taking place during the 2026 Full Frame Festival, April 16–19, in downtown Durham, with additional gatherings in the spring and fall.

Full Frame, a program of CDS, is an annual international event dedicated to the theatrical exhibition of nonfiction cinema. Each spring, Full Frame welcomes filmmakers and film lovers from around the world to Durham for a four‑day, morning‑to‑midnight array of more than 60 films, along with discussions and panels.

Through attending the festival itself, as well as participating in a series of related gatherings, a cohort of 12 Duke faculty will build community and reflect on ways to engage with documentary film across disciplines. Participating faculty will consider opportunities to integrate documentary methods and works into undergraduate course offerings, scholarly research, and public engagement.

No prior experience with documentary film is required. All Duke faculty who regularly teach undergraduate students are eligible. First‑time festival attendees are especially encouraged to apply.

What Participating Faculty Receive

Selected faculty will receive a Full Frame Signature Pass, valued at $275, which includes:

  • Ten tickets redeemable for films or special events, such as the Opening Night Party and the Awards Barbecue
  • Last Minute Line access to screenings 

Signature Pass tickets are for the pass holder only and may not be shared. Additional details are available on the Full Frame Passes page.

Program Dates

  • Monday, February 27, 2026: Application deadline  
  • Monday, March 2, 2026: Notification to 12 selected faculty  
  • Monday, March 30, 2026: Dinner and orientation at CDS, 6–7 p.m. 
  • Thursday, April 16 – Sunday, April 19, 2026: Full Frame Documentary Film Festival 
  • August 2026: Reflection and guidance session 
  • October 2026: Final gathering at CDS 

Eligibility

All Duke faculty who regularly teach undergraduate students are eligible to apply.

Application

To apply, complete the application form by Friday, February 27, at 11:59 p.m. ET.

Contact

For questions, please contact Katie Hyde at kahyde@duke.edu.