There is far more information available on our web site than we would send you by mail. If you are unable to print the application, then contact us and we will send you an application form.
Phone for Film School Main Office: 850.644.7728
E-mail for Graduate Program Information: mfainfo@filmschool.fsu.edu
E-mail for Undergraduate Program Information: bfainfo@filmschool.fsu.edu
The film industry is not conducive to traditional job placement programs. Many of our students find that doing an internship following completion of our program is an excellent way to locate a position. Our alumni are an excellent resource in helping graduates determine where to locate an internship or job. In fact, we have a Mentorship Program that assigns a successful alumni mentor to every current student. The weekly Warren Report, an in-house newsletter, frequently lists announcements of entry-level positions. The Warren Report is available to all via this web site. Since the film industry is extremely fast-paced, it is often difficult to locate either an internship or a job until you are actually in the city where you want to work. The majority of our graduates are working in film within a few months of graduation.
Both the BFA and MFA programs have a lock-step curriculum (meaning that majors are required to take required film classes designated during each semester) and therefore do not usually provide an opportunity for film students to intern during the program’s course of study. However, many students enroll for an additional semester and complete an internship prior to graduating from Florida State University. It is also possible to complete the degree requirements for a film degree and do a not-for-credit internship after graduation.
We offer an information session and tour for prospective undergraduate applicants. Generally speaking, auditing classes is prohibited.
If you are eligible for admission to the University and are interested in the Film School, we urge you to submit an application. It is not possible for us to look at a résumé and tell you what your chance of acceptance might be. Our Admissions Committee spends the majority of the Spring Semester each year reviewing and ranking applicants to select those who will be invited to interview. They look at the total applicant: grades, test scores, experience, creative background, evidence of ability to collaborate, drive and passion for filmmaking.
No. The final selection process involved is comparative in nature. It attempts to select from the competing candidates those individuals whom the faculty believe show the greatest promise for a lifetime career in the film and video arts and industries, with regard to goals, talent, prior experience and training, initiative, energy, commitment, tenacity and a capability for professional team work.
No.
Most undergraduates live in dorms on campus, at least during the first year. Information about dorm availability can be obtained from the Housing Office. Graduate students frequently live in Alumni Village or in apartments. The Graduate Dorm has not proved to be a satisfactory residence for our graduate students.
Though it is not required, a car can be a great asset, even to those who live in dorms. There are many shoots in off-campus locations, and the public transportation system in Tallahassee is minimal.
About 15 minutes driving time.
Information on Financial Aid is available at http://www.ais.fsu.edu/finaid
The Film School presently has no scholarships available. A limited number of Assistantships are available at the graduate level.
The Film School programs have a main focus on the production of theatrical narrative film. Though there are many similarities between episodic television production and narrative film production, there are several important differences. While the programs will develop and emphasize skills that can be utilized across many disciplines, the programs do not discuss the practical applications of those skills in the context of broadcast Television.
Most projects are shot in film, including the thesis project at both the BFA and MFA level. Students in both programs will also shoot at least one project in digital video. The preparation and implementation of the digital project, including the equipment, is designed to mirror that of film production.
As a state-funded program that provides equal opportunity for all students enrolled, we pay all production costs. Students are not permitted to use their own funds for production, with the exception of incidental expenditures for production of their own projects. Students are responsible for the cost of textbooks and other consumables used in the classroom environment.
Not yet, but we plan to add a specialization in recording arts in the future. Sound for film, however, is an important part of our current curriculum.
The Film School’s main focus is on the production of theatrical narrative film. Though there are some similarities between music video production and narrative film production, there are several important differences. While the programs will develop and emphasize skills that can be utilized across many disciplines, the programs do not address the practical applications of these skills in the specific context of music video production.
As a state funded school tuition tends to increase a bit each year. Check out the information at for current estimated fees.
(undergraduate) (graduate)
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