Motion Pictures

The Motion Pictures program at the University of Miami offers students a comprehensive education in the art, technology, and business of filmmaking. This program is designed for aspiring directors, producers, screenwriters, cinematographers, editors, and other industry professionals who seek to develop their creative talents and technical skills in a dynamic learning environment. Students are introduced to a broad spectrum of subjects, including storytelling, visual storytelling techniques, cinematography, editing, sound design, production management, and post-production processes. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience through numerous film projects, workshops, and internships, allowing students to build an impressive portfolio and develop industry connections. Collaboration is a core aspect of the program, encouraging students to work in teams to simulate real-world production scenarios. The faculty comprises experienced industry professionals who provide mentorship and insights into current industry trends and expectations. The university's state-of-the-art facilities equipped with advanced filmmaking technology provide students with the tools necessary to produce high-quality films. Throughout the program, students explore various genres and styles, fostering a versatile skill set suitable for multiple pathways within the motion picture industry. Graduates of the Motion Pictures program are well-prepared to pursue careers as directors, producers, cinematographers, editors, or to continue their education in graduate film programs. The program also emphasizes entrepreneurship and understanding the business aspects of filmmaking, preparing students to succeed in a competitive industry landscape. With access to vibrant cultural and artistic communities, students are encouraged to develop their unique voice and vision, contributing innovatively to the evolution of cinema. Overall, the Motion Pictures program at the University of Miami aims to cultivate creative excellence, technical proficiency, and professional readiness in its students, empowering them to make meaningful contributions to the global film industry.

Students must complete a minimum of 66 credit hours with the approval of the faculty advisor. At least 24 must be at or above the 700-level and at least 12 must be earned for thesis. Motion Picture students must maintain an overall minimum GPA of 3.0 for all courses.

M.F.A. candidates are expected to follow a set sequence of courses during the first two semesters of their studies. Several courses are required during the second year of studies. Candidates are strongly encouraged to explore not only a primary but also a secondary area of specialization in the program and develop a minimum of two creative projects consistent with their areas of primary interest and secondary specialization. A minimum of 6 credit hours in each area of specialization is required. Under faculty committee supervision, students will develop one or two creative projects in the third year of their studies.

All M.F.A. students must demonstrate deeper, critical understanding of motion picture practice in diverse social and cultural contexts.  To this end, students are encouraged to take advantage of available study abroad programs. Students are also encouraged to participate in an internship during the summer of the first year or second year of studies.

By the end of the second year, students must complete a film and television literacy test, based on a list of 150 culturally and historically significant titles complied by the faculty. The list is circulated to each student upon entrance into the program. The test is administered annually in the spring semester. Students are requried to earn 85/100% on the test in order to complete the degree.

This three-year program culminates with a thesis portfolio that demonstrates, not only skillful execution of craft, but strong conceptual development rooted in collaborative work and innovative uses of technology.

No more than 9 credit hours will be allowed for graduate internships and advanced projects and directed research. Courses may be taken, with program director approval, from other programs or departments within the University of Miami.

• A baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution
• The School’s official application
• A $65.00 non-refundable application fee
• Three letters of recommendation
• 500 word typed statement of academic and professional goals.
  • Note: for the Interactive Media M.F.A., please visit this web site for specific instructions about the statement
• Official transcripts of all college work, both undergraduate and graduate
  • Note: In addition, international applicants must send an official copy of their diploma for all degrees earned, and all documentation that confers your degree, with English translation for all degrees earned.
  • Note: All transcripts must be the original document, forwarded directly from the university; Xerox copies, true copies, notarized copies and other types of copies are not acceptable.
• Official TOEFL or IELTS scores
  • Note: Only for international applicants
• Copy of current passport
  • Note: Only for international applicants. The name entered on the graduate application must exactly match your name as it appears on your passport.
• Official Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores
  • Note: Required for M.A. applicants in Communication Studies and Public Relations. 
  • Note: Journalism M.A. and Interactive Media M.F.A. applicants may send GRE scores or a portfolio
  • Note: Not required for Motion Pictures M.F.A. applicants
• Portfolio
  • Note: Required for Motion Pictures M.F.A. applicants
  • Note: Interactive Media M.F.A. applicants may send a portfolio or GRE scores

The University of Miami offers various financing options for students enrolled in its Motion Pictures program, designed to make higher education accessible and affordable. Students can explore a range of financial aid resources including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Merit-based scholarships are available based on academic achievement, talent, and other criteria, providing financial support that does not require repayment. Need-based grants are also available for eligible students demonstrating financial need, helping to reduce the overall cost of attendance. The university participates in federal and state financial aid programs, allowing students to apply for federal student loans, which often feature favorable interest rates and flexible repayment plans. Additionally, the university offers private loan options through approved lenders for students who require additional funding beyond scholarships and grants.

Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their eligibility for federal aid programs. The university’s financial aid office provides personalized assistance to help students understand their financing options and complete necessary paperwork. Moreover, Miami offers payment plans that allow students to split tuition payments into manageable installments over the semester or academic year, easing financial burdens. Part-time work opportunities on campus enable students to earn income while studying, supporting their educational expenses and gaining valuable professional experience.

The total cost of the Motion Pictures program includes tuition, fees, living expenses, and other costs, which the university estimates based on current rates. Financial aid packages typically cover a significant portion of these costs, reducing out-of-pocket expenses for students. The university reviews each student’s financial situation annually to determine continued eligibility for aid. Committed to supporting students financially, the University of Miami continually updates its offerings to include new scholarships and aid programs aligned with industry developments and student needs.

Overall, the university’s comprehensive approach to financing ensures that students interested in Motion Pictures can access the necessary funding to pursue their degree without undue financial hardship, fostering an environment of academic excellence and creative development.

The University of Miami offers a comprehensive program in Motion Pictures designed to prepare students for various careers within the film and television industry. This program provides students with a broad foundation in film production, including courses in directing, screenplay writing, cinematography, editing, and production management. Students have the opportunity to explore both the artistic and technical aspects of motion picture creation, fostering creativity, storytelling skills, and technical proficiency. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience, enabling students to develop a portfolio of work that demonstrates their abilities to future employers or graduate programs. Students can participate in various production projects, internships, and industry collaborations, which serve to bridge academic study with practical application. The program also encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to work with peers from other related disciplines such as theater, animation, and multimedia. Faculty members are experienced professionals in the field, providing mentorship and industry insights. The university's facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including professional-grade editing suites, sound stages, and digital cinematography equipment, ensuring students have access to industry-standard tools. Graduates of the program are equipped with a versatile skill set suitable for careers in film direction, production, cinematography, screenwriting, editing, and post-production, among other fields. The program also emphasizes critical thinking and analysis of film as an art form and cultural practice, encouraging students to develop their own voice and perspective as filmmakers. The university's location and connections provide additional opportunities for students to engage with the thriving film industry in Miami and beyond, including festivals, networking events, and production opportunities. Overall, the Motion Pictures program aims to prepare students to become innovative, skilled professionals capable of contributing creatively and effectively to the dynamic entertainment industry.