MFA Film Programs | Masters in Film & Video Productions

Why Earn an MFA Film?

An MFA in Film, or Masters in Film, applies to the fields of television studies, film production, and film director. MFA film programs teach students to use tools such as literary theory, philosophy and social science to analyze cinema. A masters in film program may offer specializations including aesthetics, historiography, world film, American film and European film.

MFA Film Programs and Curriculum

Some MFA Film programs may be sponsored by humanities departments, or through a film school or film departments. Prerequisites for admission can vary greatly. Some programs may require proficiency in a foreign language. Other programs may require a film studies undergraduate degree or related coursework for enrollment. Students should check their programs of interest to determine the prerequisites they must meet.

In order to apply for admission to the Ph.D. program, a student must first complete a bachelor’s in a related field. Most applicants possess a graduate degree. Some programs require a meeting and interview for consideration.

The standard film studies educational approach focuses on a conglomeration of subjects in communication, art, and media technology. Students learn all aspects of movie making including acting, screenwriting, and editing. The curriculum gives students education in many areas including:

• Acting for directors
• Documentary practicum
• Digital editing
• Computer animation
• Historiography

The Accreditation Council for Film Studies Education must accredit educational programs. Students should also be aware of class availability online. Many schools such as Stanford University offer a masters in film studies. Other schools such The Art Institute, Full Sail University, and the University of Iowa offer film studies online as well.

Masters in Film Studies Career Paths

A masters in film studies might lead to one of the following careers:

• Movie critic
• Sound editor
• Production assistant
• Special effects advisor
• Producer
• Director
• Casting director

Industries populated by graduates of this program include but are not limited to entertainment, music, art and film.

Film Careers Salary and Future Job Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, film and video editors and camera operators earned a median annual salary of $65,070 in 2023. Job opportunities in this field are projected to grow by 8% between 2023 and 2033.

This growth is slower than the national average. Producers and directors earned a median annual salary of $82,510 in 2023, projected job growth for these occupations was also projected to be 7% within the same time period.

Masters Degree Programs for Television

Are you attracted to the glamour of media? Then, You may already be interested in earning a masters degree in television. There are many areas of the television industry that you might concentrate on in a television masters degree program. Many of these concentrations focus on teaching students how to work behind the scenes.

Preparing to Pursue Potential Career Opportunities in Television

Individuals interested in earning a masters degree in a field related to the television industry might prepare for their advanced studies by earning an undergraduate degree in a related field such as communications, broadcasting, or journalism. They also may seek relevant work experience anywhere from a hosting gig at their college television station to an internship at a major network.

GradSchools.com offers 98 Graduate Schools with MFA Film Programs | Masters in Film & Video Productions