MFA Film at Stony Brook University

Programme overview

The MFA in Film is an intensive, highly selective, project-driven programme with dedicated tracks in Directing, Screenwriting, Producing and an Independent track. Production periods culminate in a feature screenplay, a 20-minute or feature MFA thesis film, a screenwriter's portfolio or a feature producer's package. Industry professionals teach alongside the faculty.

Faculty: Lichtenstein Center, Stony Brook Manhattan Center for Creative Writing and Film | Department: Film | Duration: Two-plus years; 45-49 credits; normally three years full-time; time limit 3 years full-time, 5 part-time | Study mode: full-time | Location: Stony Brook, NY, United States

What you will study

45-49 credits: 19 credits of core courses (Introduction to Graduate Studies, Film Tools, Production I, Directing I, Screenwriting Workshop I, Acting Workshop for Filmmakers at Southampton), an experiential option (independent project, internship or teaching practicum), 6 credits of MFA Project and Thesis Paper, and 17-21 credits in a chosen track.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a GPA of at least 3.0 (conditional admission possible for outstanding film promise); three letters of recommendation; resume; statement of purpose of one to two pages with specialization; 3-minute video pitch; a 2-3 page scene and an extended logline; writing sample up to 10 pages for screenwriting, television writing, directing and producing candidates; up to 4 video samples (max 15 minutes total) and a list of technical proficiencies for directing candidates. Finalists are interviewed.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Graduate applications are for fall entry with funding consideration; deadlines and any other entry terms vary by program.

Graduate School: the application fee is $100 (limited exceptions). Applications are submitted online through the Slate portal. Minimum cumulative GPA 3.00 on a 4.00 scale; GRE scores are listed on the application checklist and three letters of recommendation are required. Deadlines vary by program; for fall applications considered for funding the deadline is typically January 15.

Apply through the official page: https://www.stonybrook.edu/grad/admissions/apply-graduate-programs.html

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