Program Overview

MFA Film and Media Production

The MFA in Film and Media Production is a three-year program that addresses all production craft specialties, with a focus as a director’s program rigorously committed to the craft of storytelling. The curriculum places equal emphasis on fiction and nonfiction, and encourages students to explore diverse cinematic forms.

Program of Study

The program is divided into three years:

• Year 1: Develop creative, conceptual and expressive skills using a range of media production exercises and experiences.
• Year 2: Develop and refine technical skills and strengthen aesthetic, theoretical and conceptual abilities through the completion of the qualifying pre-thesis project; take additional non-production courses.
• Year 3: Produce the thesis project; acquire additional expertise in theoretical domains.

Program Details

The program allows students to master the art of cinematic storytelling by becoming an expert in all facets of narrative and documentary film production, including editing, cinematography, audio, screenwriting, and directing. Students will develop lifelong collaborative relationships with peers, alumni, and faculty, and will have the opportunity to direct at least two portfolio-quality films during their time at the university. With individualized attention and mentorship by professors who are experts in the industry and committed to teaching, students will own the rights to their work.

Location

The program is located in Austin, a city well-known for embracing a creative culture and thriving film-making scene. Home to SXSW, well-known feature filmmakers, and many of today’s top TV show runners, it’s where students can write the next Hollywood blockbuster, shoot an edgy television pilot, craft a small indie gem, and literally bump into directors like Richard Linklater, Andrew Bujalski, and Jeff Nichols at screenings and even in class.

Faculty and Staff

The program has a team of experienced faculty and staff, including:

• Production Area Head: Miguel Alvarez
• Graduate Advisor: PJ Raval
• Graduate Coordinator: Teresa Warner

Program Benefits

The program offers:

• Outstanding faculty
• Excellent facilities
• Highly ranked
• Affordable tuition

Curriculum

The curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in film and media production, with a focus on storytelling and cinematic forms. The program encourages students to explore diverse cinematic forms and to approach their subjects from unique perspectives and to tell new kinds of stories.