Filmmaking, BFA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Filmmaking at Rutgers University–New Brunswick is your gateway to a dynamic career in visual storytelling and digital media production. This undergraduate degree is designed for aspiring filmmakers eager to master the art and craft of cinematic expression, blending technical proficiency with a strong foundation in liberal arts. You will explore the intricate processes of fiction and documentary filmmaking, learning to translate creative visions into compelling narratives that resonate with audiences.

This full-time, on-campus BFA program spans four years, immersing you in a hands-on curriculum that covers screenwriting, cinematography, directing, and post-production. You will engage with core filmmaking courses and electives, progressively developing your skills through practical projects, culminating in a senior thesis film. Throughout your studies, you will work alongside experienced industry professionals, gaining the practical experience and critical perspective necessary to graduate prepared for diverse roles in the film and digital media industries.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Fine Arts in Filmmaking program provides a comprehensive education in the art and craft of cinema. Students will engage with foundational courses in film production, screenwriting, and cinematography, progressing to intermediate and advanced studies in directing, sound, and post-production. The curriculum also incorporates essential liberal arts requirements and electives to foster a well-rounded understanding of filmmaking within a broader artistic and cultural context. The program culminates in a senior thesis project, allowing students to apply their acquired skills to a significant personal cinematic endeavor.

1 Year One – Fall Semester

Introduction to Film Production I
Introduction to Film I
Screenwriting
College Writing OR 4D Fundamentals
Interplay (Optional for transfers)

2 Year One – Spring Semester

Introduction to Film Production II
Introduction to Film II
Cinematography
College Writing OR 4D Fundamentals
Intro to Art History: 1400–Present

3 Year Two Fall Semester

Intermediate Film Production I
Filmmaking Elective #1
Visual Arts Elective
Liberal Arts Core Requirement
General Elective #1

4 Year Two Spring Semester

Intermediate Film Production II
Sound for Film
Filmmaking Elective #2
Liberal Arts Core Requirement
General Elective #2

5 Year Three Fall Semester

Advanced Directing I
Image Post Production
Filmmaking Elective #3
Filmmaking Elective #4
Cinema Studies Liberal Arts Requirement

6 Year Three Spring Semester

Advanced Directing II
Filmmaking Elective #5
Liberal Arts Core Requirement
General Elective #4

7 Year Four Fall Semester

Senior Thesis I
Filmmaking Elective #6
Liberal Arts Core Requirement
Liberal Arts Core Requirement

8 Year Four Spring Semester

Senior Thesis II
Filmmaking Elective #7
Cinema Studies Elective
Liberal Arts Core Requirement

9 Liberal Arts Requirements (33 Credits)

Introduction to Art History
Introduction to Film I
Introduction to Film II
Cinema Studies Elective
Social Science & History
Natural Science
College Writing
Second Writing or Literature
Quantitative/Technical Skills

10 Filmmaking Foundation Courses (14 Credits)

Introduction to Film Production I
Introduction to Film Production II
Screenwriting
Cinematography

11 Filmmaking Core Courses (30 Credits)

Intermediate Film Production I
Intermediate Film Production II
Sound for Film
Advanced Directing I
Advanced Directing II
Image Post Production
Thesis I
Thesis II

How much does this course cost?

A clear picture of tuition, living costs and affordability

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 33,734.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 33,734.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 33,734.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 33,734.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 134,936.00

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

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on College Avenue Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

89%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Broadcasting & TelevisionFilm & Television ProductionGaming & Interactive MediaJournalism & ReportingLive Events & ConcertsMusic & Performing ArtsPublic Broadcasting & DocumentaryStreaming & Digital ContentTalent & Artist ManagementTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

The Daily Targum

Why Study Filmmaking, BFA at Rutgers University–New Brunswick

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Life at Rutgers University–New Brunswick 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 Filmmaking, BFA at Rutgers University–New Brunswick

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work doesn’t require a separate permit, while off-campus work requires university approval.

What English language score do I need for this course?

English test requirements vary by program. For Duolingo, you need an overall score of 115; for TOEFL, a minimum overall score of 79; and for IELTS, an overall score of 6.5 is required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as film directors, cinematographers, editors, screenwriters, and producers.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Rutgers Filmmaking Center offers a BFA in filmmaking that includes individual training in both fiction and documentary film production. The program combines digital communication skills with liberal arts electives for a well-rounded education.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Filmmaking, BFA program has three intake months: January, May, and September. You can start your studies at the beginning of any of these terms.
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