Film Production (MFA)
Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
Why pursue a Master of Fine Arts in Studio Arts, Film Production?
Extended approaches to moving image making examine cinema and its role in the future. We need artist-researchers and media-makers to investigate how this medium responds to current technologies and advancements in order to develop new ideas and concepts in film production.
The MFA in Studio Arts, Film Production concentration, provides a laboratory setting where you can explore ways to advance your particular approach to filmmaking making through critical inquiry, experimentation, intellectual exchange and innovation. Our faculty members, key figures in contemporary, experimental and documentary cinema, will encourage you to consider diverse theoretical frameworks, processes and methodologies of contemporary moving image practices.
Take advantage of an extensive range of facilities and resources through the Fine Arts Academic and Research Facilities, the Centre for Digital Arts and the Visual Collections Repository (VCR). Our cutting-edge equipment provides the technical means for you to create media that transcends traditional forms of animation, film, digital video and time-based installation. Montreal also offers opportunities for your productions to thrive given its reputation as an urban centre where traditional cinematic and new media practices flourish.
Since our department is comprised of seven disciplinary programs, you will be in the company of students working in fibres and material practices, intermedia, painting and drawing, photography, print media and sculpture. Regular feedback from artist-researchers in the department contributes to this dynamic learning environment, encouraging you to consider interdisciplinary approaches as you develop your artwork.
Program Details
- BFA or BA with a Fine Arts or Fine Arts and Art History major, or an approved equivalent, from a recognized institution and with a minimum B average in the major area.
- Undergraduate experience and proficiency relevant to the area of specialization.
- Applicants to the Film Production concentration are expected to have a BFA or BA degree in cinema or an approved equivalent with at least a B average in the major area.
- Proficiency in English. Applicants whose primary language is not English must demonstrate that their knowledge of English is sufficient to pursue graduate studies in their chosen field. Please refer to the Graduate Admission page for further information on the Language Proficiency requirements and exemptions.
Note: Students with a BFA from Concordia University must wait two (2) years before being considered for admission into the MFA program.
24 credits – Studio Concentration
3 credits – Directed Studio Practice
DISP 615 - Directed Studio Practice (3 credits)
21 credits – Chosen from
ASEM 620 - Art: Ideas and Practices (3 credits)
ASEM 641 - Seminar in Contemporary Art (6 credits)
ASEM 642 - Seminar in Contemporary Art (3 credits)
ASEM 643 - Special Topics in Art and Ideology (6 credits)
ASEM 644 - Special Topics In Art and Ideology (3 credits)
ASEM 645 - Special Topics in Art and Culture (6 credits)
ASEM 646 - Special Topics in Art and Culture (3 credits)
ASEM 651 - Special Topics in Media Arts (6 credits)
ASEM 652 - Special Topics in Media Arts (3 credits)
ASEM 653 - Aspects of Contemporary Cinema (6 credits)
ASEM 654 - Aspects of Contemporary Cinema (3 credits)
INTP 660 - Professional Internship (6 credits)
INTP 661 - Professional Internship I (3 credits)
INTP 662 - Professional Internship II (3 credits)
INDS 670 - Independent Study (6 credits)
INDS 671 - Independent Study I (3 credits)
INDS 672 - Independent Study II (3 credits)
12 credits – Project and Exhibition
PROJ 691 - Studio Project (9 credits)
PROJ 692 - Exhibition or Film Project (3 credits)
Please review the department application and portfolio requirements before applying online. Read the how-to guide for general application procedures.
| DEGREE |
FALL (September) |
WINTER (January) |
SUMMER (May/June) |
| Studio Arts | MFA | Jan. 20 | n/a | n/a |
During the first two years of the program, students combine seminar courses with independent, supervised studio practice. The third year is devoted to studio practice and production.
- Film Production I-IV
- Directed Studio Practice
- Studio Project
- Exhibition
See the program structure and consult the graduate calendar for a complete list of current courses.
Our graduate students are currently automatically granted a three-credit Teaching Assistantship in their first year of study and a six-credit Assistantship in their second year.
MFA students can apply to teach a select number of undergraduate courses in their third year of study. These positions are awarded on a competitive basis. These opportunities also provide valuable experience for our graduate students, many of whom are interested in pursuing teaching careers.
Employment opportunities also exist as Research Assistants in the faculty’s research centres.
Please also consult more funding opportunities provided by the Department of Studio Arts, Concordia’s graduate funding page and Financial Aid and Awards.
Our facilities are home to one of the largest equipment bases in North America. Gain access to state-of-the-art facilities equipped with:
- Film production cameras
- Grip & lighting gear
- Picture & sound editing
- Post-production facilities
- Analog cameras
- Film animation
Explore the MFA Student profiles and visit a gallery of student works.
The Cinema Students Association represents the interests and concerns of cinema students in internal and external affairs. The committee serves as an important link between students and faculty, and is responsible for organizing an array of events, including the Mel Hoppenheim School of Cinema's annual year-end screening.
Our alumni find success in a wide range of professional film careers. Many operate as independent filmmakers who screen their work around the world. Others work as art directors, film editors, scriptwriters, post-production coordinators, documentarians and directors of photography.
Several graduates serve as presidents of established production companies, while others write policy and direct programs for Telefilm Canada and the Société de développement des entreprises culturelles.
A number of our graduates also pursue careers as educators. Our alumni can be found teaching in institutions including CEGEP John Abbott, CEGEP de Sherbrooke, NSCAD University, Ontario College of Art and Design, Ryerson University, York University, University of Saskatchewan, Emerson College, and Florida State University.
Key resources
Join the conversation
Contact us
Studio Arts MFA Office
Maureen Kennedy, MFA Program Assistant
514-848-2424 ext. 4607
Fax: 514-848-4532
mfa.studioarts@concordia.ca
