Stony Brook University United States

Film

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon March 2027

Course Overview

The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Film at Stony Brook University is designed for aspiring filmmakers seeking to hone their craft through intensive, project-driven study. You will immerse yourself in the essential elements of independent film production and TV writing, exploring areas such as directing, screenwriting, and producing. This postgraduate program is ideal for those ready to dedicate themselves to developing a robust professional portfolio and a significant thesis project, preparing you for the competitive landscape of the film industry.

This full-time, on-campus Master of Fine Arts program is structured over two years, requiring 45-49 credits. You will engage in core courses like Film Tools, Production I, and Screenwriting Workshop, alongside choosing a specialized track such as Directing. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience, including opportunities for professional internships or teaching practicums, culminating in a significant MFA project and thesis. You will graduate with a comprehensive portfolio and the practical skills necessary to launch your career in film and television production.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This film program provides a comprehensive foundation in filmmaking, covering essential tools, production techniques, and directing skills. Students will engage in core coursework including an introduction to graduate studies, production, directing, and screenwriting workshops. The curriculum also offers opportunities for practical experience through an experiential option, culminating in a required MFA project and thesis. Specialized tracks, such as Directing, allow for deeper exploration of various cinematic disciplines.

1 Required Core Courses

Introduction to graduate studies Compulsory
Film tools Compulsory
Production I Compulsory
Directing I Compulsory
Screenwriting workshop Compulsory
Acting workshop Compulsory

2 Experiential Option

Independent project
Professional internship
Teaching practicum Compulsory

3 Required MFA Project & Thesis

MFA project Compulsory
Thesis Compulsory

4 Directing Track

Film management I
Editing I
Cinematography I
Film history
Topics in film
Film workshop
Directing II
Directing III
Production II
Advanced tools
Art direction workshop

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,746.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,746.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 39,492.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 4,200.00 - USD 6,000.00
Transport USD 1,200.00 - USD 1,800.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,440.00 - USD 2,400.00
Estimated Total USD 6,840.00 - USD 10,200.00

Living cost estimates are based on Stony Brook Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

95%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Advertising & Media SalesAnimation & Visual EffectsDigital Media & Online PublishingEvent Promotion & ManagementGaming & Interactive MediaMedia Production & EditingMuseums & Cultural HeritageMusic & Performing ArtsSocial Media & Content StrategyTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Newsday Media Group

Paramount

SAG-AFTRA

The Statesman

Walt Disney Company

Why Study Film at Stony Brook University

What makes this program stand out

March 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in March 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Stony Brook University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Stony Brook University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Film at Stony Brook University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during their studies and full-time during breaks. On-campus employment does not require a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

International students must meet specific English language requirements, including TOEFL or IELTS scores. For TOEFL, an overall score of 80 is needed, while IELTS requires a minimum overall score of 6.5.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Film Directors, Screenwriters, Producers, or in TV Writing.

What will I actually study in this course?

The MFA in Film program features dedicated Tracks in Directing, Screenwriting, and Producing. Students will complete a thesis project, which could be a short film or a production package.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MFA in Film program accepts students in March and September each year. Make sure to prepare your application materials ahead of these months.
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