Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) Degree

The program gives our students hands-on training that prepares them to work in all aspects of the industry. The Academy provides the most technologically advanced facilities and in-house equipment in the nation. Our courses cover cinematography, lighting, sound, producing, directing, production design, editing/special effects, acting, and screenwriting. Our faculty consists of accomplished filmmakers drawn from the Bay Area and Hollywood. Companies such as Lucasfilm, Industrial Light & Magic, and Pixar Animation Studios supply our instructors with the latest developments in the industry.

Master of Fine Arts (MFA) Degree

The Master of Fine Arts program offers candidates the opportunity to expand on their individual vision as filmmakers. The program encourages creativity and independence while also providing instruction in the commercial aspects of filmmaking. Our approach provides practical, hands-on training in a collaborative framework.

The program culminates in a thesis project designed to launch students' careers in their chosen field—narrative, documentary, experimental filmmaking, music videos, or commercials. Our MFA students develop a full understanding of the fundamentals of form, content, and structure in addition to a complete working knowledge of digital media. The focus of the curriculum is on expanding the graduate candidate's vision, worldview, and skill set as a director, producer, editor, cinematographer, or screenwriter.

The department's notable faculty of professionals ensures that candidates graduate with working knowledge of the industry's latest trends and technologies. Filmmakers graduating from this program have studied all areas of production. Final thesis projects are expected to be strong competitors at industry festivals.

Associate of Arts (AA) Degree

The Bachelor of Fine Arts program prepares students to enter this competitive industry. The School of Motion Picture & Television fosters creativity and independence in filmmaking as an art. We also provide instruction in the commercial aspects of filmmaking as a business. Our approach is dedicated to practical, hands-on training in a collaborative framework. After gaining experience in a broad range of disciplines, students will specialize in one area for the purpose of portfolio development. We train students ultimately to become specialists, since specialists are what the industry requires.

Our program offers state-of-the-art equipment and guidance by top industry professionals. Students who concentrate in acting will take a series of performance courses (e.g., acting, speech, singing, movement, improvisation, Shakespeare). Students in acting classes also collaborate with other classes within the School of Motion Picture & Television. Acting students will graduate with a taped portfolio of their work, which can be used to help launch an acting career.

Classes

Explore our course catalog and take classes based on your interests and schedule. Enhance your knowledge, learn a new skill, or try out a new form of art.

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