Program Overview

Master of Fine Arts Degree in Filmmaking

The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Filmmaking program is a highly specialized degree with intensive study in narrative storytelling, screenwriting, directing, cinematography, editing, producing, and post-production sound design. Students learn-by-doing in this hands-on graduate degree, mastering traditional and digital film while tackling challenging creative film projects of increasing complexity.

Curriculum

The curriculum for the MFA in filmmaking includes:

• Advanced coursework in classes such as Advanced Directing, Screenwriting Short Thesis, Master's Professional Development, Sound Design, and more
• Instruction and critique by award-winning faculty and staff actively working in the film industry
• Consistent access to an equipment library with industry-standard cameras, dollies, light kits, sound equipment, and more
• Exclusive guest lectures from top film industry Directors, Actors, Producers, Cinematographers, and more

Degree Details

The MFA degree in Filmmaking is an accelerated two-year, six or seven semester program.

History and Theory Courses

The MFA curriculum is supported by History and Theory Courses.

Faculty Highlights

NYFA's MFA in filmmaking curriculum is taught by experienced professionals who actively work in their field of study.

Projects

In addition to writing a feature-length script of 90-120 pages, students produce ten films through the program's duration, including a master's thesis film. These film projects reflect core film structures and formats, such as Mise en Scène, Continuity, Montage, POV, etc. Students also have the opportunity to work on 28 student films in various production roles such as director of photography, assistant camera operator, and gaffer, rounding out their experience.

Film School Alumni

The filmmaking projects completed in NYFA's MFA Filmmaking program help students hone and refine their skills while providing hands-on experience. Students have gone on to work on films, television shows, podcasts, web series, and more.

Locations

The MFA filmmaking programs are offered at the Los Angeles campus.

NYFA Los Angeles

• Campus address: NYFA Los Angeles, 3300 W Riverside Drive, Burbank, CA 91505

Tuition and Fees

• Tuition: $16,804 Per Semester (Summer 2026) or $20,500 Per Semester (Fall 2026)
• Departmental Program Fee: $1,876 Per Semester (Summer 2026) or $2,000 Per Semester (Fall 2026)
• Program Duration: 6 Semesters
• Additional Fees:
  • Technology Fee: $80 Per Semester
  • Wellness Services & Programming Fee: $145 Per Semester
  • Activity Fee: $125 per semester
  • Orientation Fee: $150 (Domestic Students) or $200 (International Students)
  • Graduation Fee: $100
  • International Student Fee: $200 for the first semester, $120 each subsequent semester

Start Dates

• May, 2026
• August, 2026
• January, 2027

International Pathway Program

Non-native English-speaking students who meet all admissions requirements for a NYFA degree program, except for English proficiency, can apply to the International Pathway Program.