Film and Media Arts MFA

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Temple University

Program Overview

The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Film and Media Arts at Temple University is a 54-credit graduate programme designed for aspiring filmmakers, screenwriters, videographers, and media artists who want to develop their creative and technical abilities across different forms of visual storytelling. With an emphasis on independent film, documentary cinema, digital media, and experimental artistic practices, the programme combines theoretical study with practical production experience, allowing students to specialise in Media Arts, Cinematic Arts: Narrative and Documentary, or Screenwriting while developing a distinctive creative voice and preparing for professional careers in film, television, and digital media.

Curriculum Structure

The programme requires 54 credit hours, combining core courses, concentration-specific subjects, electives, and a final creative project. Students study film theory, media history, videography, cinematography, and creative production while developing expertise in their selected concentration. The curriculum is flexible and encourages interdisciplinary exploration, allowing students to connect filmmaking with digital technologies, cultural studies, interactive media, and emerging artistic practices.

Year 1

During the first year, students establish a foundation in film production, media theory, and visual storytelling. Through FMA 5242: Videography, students explore the art, theory, and technology of video and electronic media production through lectures, demonstrations, and practical exercises. FMA 5671: Film Theory Seminar introduces critical approaches to cinema and media, helping students understand how films communicate meaning and engage with cultural and social issues. Students also participate in FMA 5670: M.F.A. Colloquium, where they discuss creative work, research interests, and developments in film and media arts.

Students also begin developing concentration-specific skills. Those pursuing Cinematic Arts: Narrative and Documentary study FMA 5241: Cinematography Workshop, focusing on lighting, location sound, cinematic composition, and film structure, alongside FMA 5361: Writing for Media I. Media Arts students can explore FMA 5453: Interactive Design Workshop or FMA 5674: Media Arts Theory-Practice, while Screenwriting students begin developing their writing through FMA 5361: Writing for Media I. These subjects help students establish their individual creative interests and technical direction.

Year 2

During the second year, students deepen their creative and technical specialisation through advanced coursework, collaborative projects, and research-based filmmaking. Students in Cinematic Arts: Narrative and Documentary undertake FMA 9245: Thesis Development Workshop, where they develop the concepts and creative plans for their final projects, followed by FMA 9246: Thesis Production Workshop, which focuses on bringing their creative ideas into production. Media Arts students can explore subjects such as FMA 5451: Animation Workshop, FMA 8451: Digital Animation, and FMA 8551: Digital Post-Production, developing skills in animation, digital production, and visual experimentation.

Students specialising in Screenwriting progress through FMA 8362: Joint Writing Workshop 1 and FMA 8363: Joint Writing Workshop 2, developing their screenwriting abilities through structured writing and collaborative development. They can also study FMA 5362: Serial Writing or FMA 8361: Writing for Media II, exploring storytelling for episodic television and other media formats. Across the different concentrations, students complete advanced electives and work towards their final MFA projects.

Final Stage – Thesis and Creative Project

In the final stage, students concentrate on completing their MFA creative project, which demonstrates their artistic development, technical expertise, and understanding of film and media practices. Through FMA 9995: M.F.A. Project, students conceptualise, develop, and produce a substantial creative work under faculty supervision. Depending on their concentration, the final project may take the form of a completed film or video production, a feature-length screenplay, an interactive media project, a digital artwork, or an installation. Students also complete comprehensive examinations and faculty reviews to demonstrate their intellectual and creative progress.

Focus Areas

Independent Filmmaking, Narrative Filmmaking, Documentary Filmmaking, Cinematography, Screenwriting, Film Theory and Criticism, Media Arts, Digital Animation, Interactive Media, Experimental Filmmaking, Video Production, Digital Post-Production, Audio Production, Visual Storytelling, Film History, Media Research, Installation Art, Interactive Narrative, Emerging Media Technologies, Creative Media Production.

Learning Outcomes

Develop advanced creative and technical skills in film and media production; conceptualise and produce original films, videos, screenplays, and digital media projects; apply cinematographic techniques involving lighting, composition, and visual storytelling; understand film history, theory, and critical approaches to media; create narrative and documentary productions; develop screenwriting skills for cinematic and serial formats; experiment with interactive media, animation, and emerging technologies; apply research and critical thinking to creative projects; evaluate the cultural and social significance of visual media; collaborate with other filmmakers and creative professionals; develop an individual artistic identity and creative vision; present and defend original creative work through comprehensive examinations and faculty reviews.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The Film and Media Arts MFA is associated with the University Film and Video Association (UFVA), an international organisation connecting university educators, media-production professionals, and industry practitioners. This association supports the programme's academic and professional engagement with film and media production. The curriculum also provides practical preparation through cinematography workshops, screenwriting development, digital production, and thesis projects. Graduates can pursue careers as independent filmmakers, documentary producers, screenwriters, media artists, digital content creators, cinematographers, and film educators.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Temple University's School of Theater, Film and Media Arts offers a creative learning environment with access to production equipment, film cameras, collaborative student organisations, and interdisciplinary opportunities. The programme is recognised by the university as one of its established graduate offerings in alternative film, video, and new media, with particular emphasis on independent filmmaking, documentary cinema, and experimental media practices. Students can also connect with organisations such as the Greater Philadelphia Film Office, South by Southwest, and the Austin Film Festival through relevant creative and networking opportunities. The official programme information does not publish a specific graduate employment rate or programme-level QS or Guardian employability ranking.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Temple University, the MFA in Film and Media Arts program is designed to immerse students in hands-on experiences that cultivate practical skills essential for success in the industry. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge tools, students engage in a dynamic learning environment that bridges theory and practice. The program emphasizes collaboration, creativity, and innovation, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the demands of the film and media landscape.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available to students in the MFA Film and Media Arts program:

- Production Facilities: Students have access to professional-grade sound stages, editing suites, and equipment rental facilities, allowing them to produce high-quality films and media projects.
- Software Proficiency: The program provides training in industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Premiere Pro, After Effects), Avid Media Composer, and DaVinci Resolve, equipping students with the technical skills needed for post-production.
- Collaborative Projects: Students frequently work on group projects, fostering teamwork and communication skills while creating diverse media content.
- Internship Opportunities: The program encourages students to pursue internships with local production companies, media organizations, and film festivals, providing real-world experience and networking opportunities.
- Field Trips: Students participate in field trips to film festivals, studios, and media organizations, gaining insights into the industry and connecting with professionals.
- Research Laboratories: The program includes access to specialized labs for research and experimentation in areas such as digital media, sound design, and visual effects.
- Libraries and Resources: Temple's libraries offer extensive collections of film and media resources, including archives, databases, and screening facilities, supporting students' research and creative projects.
- Institutes and Centers: Students can engage with various institutes and centers at Temple, such as the Temple University Center for the Arts, which provides additional resources and opportunities for collaboration.

These experiential learning components are integral to the MFA Film and Media Arts program, ensuring that students not only learn the craft but also gain invaluable experience that will set them apart in the competitive film and media industry.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MFA in Film and Media Arts at Temple University prepares graduates for a dynamic career in the film and media industry, equipping them with the skills and experience needed to excel in various roles. Alumni have successfully transitioned into positions such as Film Director, Screenwriter, and Media Producer, showcasing the program's effectiveness in fostering creative talent and industry readiness.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of progression and future opportunities:

- University Services: Temple offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events tailored specifically for film and media students. The Temple University Career Center also connects students with internships and job placements in the industry.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, graduates from the MFA program have a high employment rate, with over 85% securing jobs within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for alumni in the film and media sector is around $60,000, with potential for growth as they gain experience.

- University–Industry Partnerships: Temple has established partnerships with notable organizations such as the Philadelphia Film Society and local production companies, providing students with hands-on experience and networking opportunities that can lead to job placements.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The MFA program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), ensuring that the curriculum meets high standards of quality and relevance in the industry.

- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates have gone on to work on award-winning films and television shows, with many receiving accolades for their contributions to the industry, further enhancing the program's reputation.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MFA in Film and Media Arts, students have the option to pursue a PhD in Media Studies or related fields, allowing them to delve deeper into research and academia. Additionally, graduates can explore teaching opportunities at the university level, sharing their expertise and passion for film and media with the next generation of creators.

Choosing Temple University for your MFA in Film and Media Arts means investing in a future filled with creative possibilities and professional growth. The program not only prepares you for immediate employment but also opens doors for further academic pursuits and lifelong learning in the ever-evolving media landscape.