Master of Fine Arts, Film, Television & Photography
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Film, Television and Photography
The MFA in Film, Television and Photography program at Mount Saint Mary’s is a two-year program designed to provide students with the skills and expertise they need to share the stories they so passionately want to tell. Student can complete the program by taking classes on weekends, weeknights (or both) at our new MSMU Hollywood studio. Our unique weekend structure, specifically, is designed to accommodate working individuals and those already in the media industry, as well as those who would like to intern or work on their projects full-time.
Students have the option to pursue one or two of the following concentrations: Cinematography; Directing, Producing, Documentary; Photography; Screenwriting; Acting; Editing; Music and Sound Design; and International Media.
Mount Saint Mary’s University is regionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Degree Requirements
The Master of Fine Arts in Film, Television & Photography is a terminal degree program comprised of the following requirements:
- Foundations (15 units)
- Concentration (12-13 units)
- Electives (12-13 units)
- Thesis (12 units)
- Mid-Program Review and Thesis Proposal
- Final Review and Oral Defense
A minimum of 52 units is required to complete the program
Foundations (15 Units)
To be taken in the first year and prior to beginning any Thesis work.
Concentration (12-13 Units)
Students select specialized program courses from the following concentrations (12-13 Units):
- Screenwriting
- Directing
- Producing
- Documentary
- Cinematography
- Photography
- Editing
- Acting
- Music and Sound Design
- International Media
Electives (12-13 Units)
Students are required to take 12-13 Units of Electives which can be applied toward a second concentration. Students may choose from Film, Creative Writing, and Humanities department graduate course offerings. Please note, individual instructor permission may be required for some courses.
Thesis & Reviews (12 Units)
Students are required to complete a minimum of 12 units of thesis work.
FLM 299A Thesis 1 (4 Units)
- Student selects Thesis Committee members, develops and presents a Mid-Point Review & Thesis Proposal (FLM 298A).
- Student continues working with Thesis Committee, completing agreed upon milestones and requirements.
- Student completes all milestones and requirements with Thesis Committee, culminating in a Final Review and Oral Defense (FLM 298B).
Note: Students must first complete all Foundation courses prior to beginning Thesis work.
Total Credit Hours: 52