Master of Fine Arts

The Master of Fine Arts degree in Film, Video and Computer Animation is a graduate program designed for students who have clearly identified animation as their primary interest in film and television. The program integrates both classical and computer animation and prepares students to work in both areas. Students should graduate with a comprehensive knowledge of animation from conception through realization; an understanding of the history of the medium and its aesthetics; the fundamentals of computer technology, animation software, and the most important elements of film, video, and interactive technology.

The program requires a minimum of 42 units. Thirty of the required units are in prescribed, sequential courses in Cinema-Television. The other 12 units are electives, four of which must be taken in the Division of Critical Studies. A thesis is not required for the M.F.A. degree; however, course work involves participation in major animation projects.

Admission is once a year in the fall; there are no spring admissions. Approximately 20 students will be enrolled in each incoming class. In addition to practical production, the program will also provide fieldwork experience and industry residencies to facilitate the student's transition into the profession.

Applicants for the M.F.A. in Film, Video and Computer Animation must submit supplemental application materials. For specific instructions, contact the Cinema- Television Office of Student Affairs, University Park, Los Angeles, CA 90089-2211, (213) 740-2911. The application deadline is February 15 for the fall semester.

Required Courses

Year One, First SemesterUnits
CNTV 453Pro-Seminar in Animation2
CNTV 482Basic Motion Picture Techniques for Animators2
CNTV 528Screenwriting Fundamentals2
CNTV 544Introduction to Film, Video and Computer Animation4

Year One, Second SemesterUnits
CNTV 451History of Animation2
CNTV 541Field Survey of Contemporary Animation2
CNTV 547Animation Production I4

Year Two, First SemesterUnits
CNTV 548Animation Production II4
CNTV 593Directed Studies in Animation2

Year Two, Second SemesterUnits
CNTV 549Animation Production III4
CNTV 593Directed Studies in Animation2

CNTV Electives

A minimum of 12 units of electives at the 400 and 500 level is required; at least four units must be taken from the following Critical Studies courses:

ElectivesUnits
CNTV 501History of the International Cinema: Silent Film2
CNTV 502History of the International Cinema: Sound Film2
CNTV 503Survey History of the American Sound Film2
CNTV 510Case Studies in National Media4
CNTV 511Seminar in Non-Fiction Film/Video4
CNTV 518Seminar: Avant-garde Film/Video4
CNTV 564Seminar in Film Genres4
CNTV 567Seminar in Film and a Related Art4
CNTV 569Seminar in Film Style Analysis4

Grade Point Average Requirements

A grade point average of at least 3.0 (A = 4.0) must be maintained in all USC course work toward the master's degree. Courses in which a grade of C- (1.7) or lower is earned will not apply toward a graduate degree.

Time Limit

Students must maintain satisfactory progress toward their master's degrees at all times. The degree must be completed within three years after the beginning of graduate work at USC. Course work more than seven years old is automatically invalidated and may not be applied toward the degree.
 

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