Description of Program
Ours is a program that seeks out those with a broad background in the humanities. Previous experience in film or video is not necessary for entry to the program.

The program consists of a minimum of 60 credit hours and is a four to six year commitment is three years of course work plus a thesis film. The first year of the program does not permit part-time status and requires an enrollment of 12 credit hours each semester. There is a seven year limit for the completion of the program.

Upon completion of the first year, students participate in a review of their work by a senior faculty committee.

Thesis
A thesis film is required for the completion of the degree. Work in both narrative and documentary is required prior to defining a choice of emphasis for the Thesis project. The thesis will take the form of a short film or video, developed with the guidance of a team of two advisors from the graduate faculty. This film can be either a narrative or documentary piece, ranging in cost from $8,000 to $20,000. A narrative piece could range from 15 to 20 minutes in length; a documentary one could run from 15 to 30 minutes. Successful thesis films will typically be from eight to 15 minutes; thesis films must not exceed twenty minutes.

Production Fund
Students are responsible for funding the thesis project, but may apply to the department’s Production Fund for some assistance. The Production Fund is a matching funds grant that is competitive and based on availability of funds. Other competitive grants are also available through the school.