Cinema and Media Studies

The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Cinematic Arts with a specialization in Media and Practice at the University of Southern California offers a comprehensive and immersive graduate program designed to cultivate advanced skills and innovative approaches in filmmaking, media production, and cinematic storytelling. This program emphasizes a hands-on learning environment where students engage in creative exploration, technical mastery, and critical analysis, preparing them for diverse careers in the entertainment industry, independent filmmaking, screenwriting, and media production. Through a combination of rigorous coursework, practical projects, and collaboration with industry professionals, students develop a deep understanding of cinematic language, production techniques, and the evolving landscape of digital media. The curriculum covers foundational courses in film history, theory, and criticism, alongside specialized classes in directing, editing, cinematography, sound design, and new media practices. Students are encouraged to experiment with innovative formats and storytelling methods, fostering an environment of artistic risk-taking and originality. The program also provides opportunities for students to showcase their work via screenings, festivals, and portfolio presentations, facilitating industry exposure and professional networking. With access to state-of-the-art facilities, equipment, and dedicated faculty who are established practitioners and scholars, students gain practical experience and mentorship to refine their artistic vision and technical prowess. Graduates of this program are equipped to contribute meaningfully to the fields of filmmaking, media arts, and digital storytelling, advancing their careers as directors, producers, editors, media artists, or scholars. The USC Cinema and Media Studies department's vibrant academic community and extensive industry connections ensure that students are well-prepared to lead and innovate within the dynamic media environment of the 21st century.

Undergraduates admitted to the Cinema and Media Studies Program are required to take CTPR 290 Cinematic Communication. CTPR 290 introduces the interrelationship of visuals, sound and editing in cinematic communication. Students participate in directing and producing workshops as well as individual and group projects. Approximately $1,000 should be budgeted for miscellaneous expenses, lab and insurance fees.

Required Courses

• CNTV 101 Reality Starts Here Units: 2
• CTCS 190g Introduction to Cinema Units: 4
• CTCS 191 Introduction to Television and Video Units: 4
• CTCS 192gm Race, Class, and Gender in American Film Units: 4
• CTCS 200g History of the International Cinema I Units: 4
• CTCS 201 History of the International Cinema II Units: 4
• CTCS 473 Film and Media Theory Units: 4
• CTPR 290 Cinematic Communication Units: 4, 6

One course from the following:

• CTCS 392 History of the American Film, 1925–1950 Units: 4
• CTCS 393 History of the American Film, 1946–1975 Units: 4
• CTCS 394 History of the American Film, 1977–present Units: 4

Four courses from the following:

• CTCS 367 Global Media Units: 4
• CTCS 400 Non-Fiction Film and Television Units: 4
• CTCS 402 Practicum in Film/Television Criticism Units: 4
• CTCS 403 Studies in National and Regional Media Units: 4
• CTCS 404 Television Criticism and Theory Units: 4
• CTCS 406 History of American Television Units: 4
• CTCS 407 African American Cinema Units: 4
• CTCS 409 Censorship in Cinema Units: 4
• CTCS 411 Film, Television and Cultural Studies Units: 4
• CTCS 412 Gender, Sexuality and Media Units: 4
• CTCS 414 Latina/o Screen Cultures Units: 4
• CTCS 464 Film and/or Television Genres Units: 4
• CTCS 469 Film and/or Television Style Analysis Units: 4
• CTCS 478 Culture, Technology and Communications Units: 4
• CTCS 482 Transmedia Entertainment Units: 4
• CTCS 494 Advanced Cinema and Media Studies Seminar Units: 4
• CTCS 495 Honors Seminar Units: 4 *

Note:

*Honors students only.

Additional Requirements

Grade Point Average Requirements

A minimum grade of C (2.0) must be earned in all required and prerequisite courses. A grade of C- (1.7) or lower will not satisfy a major requirement.

Honors Program

Cinema and Media Studies offers an honors track for advanced students. Admission to the honors track is made at the end of the junior year and requires a 3.5 overall GPA. Completion of the honors track is dependent upon successful completion of a designated honors section of CTCS 495 during the senior year. In this course, students will work with faculty in a seminar environment and produce an advanced term paper based on original research and analysis.

Limitations on Enrollment

No more than 40 upper-division units can be taken within the major without prior approval of the Dean, USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences.

Registration in graduate level courses (numbered 500) for undergraduate credit requires prior approval from the School of Cinematic Arts.

Curriculum Review

Cinematic arts majors are expected to meet with an academic adviser every semester to review their progress. Contact the Cinematic Arts Student Services Office, SCB 105, (213) 740-8358, for an appointment.

• Common App Writing Supplement: Essay and Short Answer questions
• Transcripts: First-year applicants should submit official transcripts of all high school and college coursework completed.
• Official Test Scores: Arrange for the testing agency to send your SAT or ACT scores directly to USC.
• School Report: All first-year applicants are required to submit the Common Application School Report by providing the name and e-mail address of a recommender.
• Letter of Recommendation from a Teacher or a Counselor
• Portfolio, resumé and/or additional writing samples: if required by major. Performance majors may also require auditions. 
• Submit your fall grades (when available): Use the Mid-Year Report Form included in the Common Application or visit www.usc.edu/midyeargrades to submit your fall grades.
• Financial Statement of Personal or Family Support
• TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic scores, if the student’s native language is not English.

Scholarships

• Mork Family Scholarship
• Stamps Leadership Scholarships
• Trustee 
• International Freshman Academic
• USC Associates
• Deans
• Leadership

The University of Southern California offers a comprehensive Cinema and Media Studies program designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the history, theory, and criticism of film and other media. The program is housed within the School of Cinematic Arts, one of the most renowned institutions for film education in the world. Coursework typically covers a wide range of topics including film history, genre studies, world cinema, film theory, media analysis, and the socio-cultural impacts of media technologies. Students are encouraged to explore both classic and contemporary media, gaining insights into the production, distribution, and reception of media texts across different historical periods and cultural contexts. The curriculum often combines theoretical study with critical analysis, aiming to prepare graduates for careers in film criticism, academia, media production, and related fields. The program can include opportunities for internships, research projects, and collaborations with industry professionals, providing practical experience alongside academic learning. Graduates from the program have gone on to work in film criticism, film festivals, media consultancy, and academic research, among other careers. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of media's role in society. With access to cutting-edge resources, archives, and a vibrant academic community, students are equipped to contribute thoughtfully to the fields of cinema and media studies.