MFA in Science and Natural History Filmmaking @ MSU

"Who can apply?"

We seek candidates with at least an undergraduate degree in biological or physical sciences, engineering, technology, or the social sciences, and preferably with some research experience. Candidates are not expected to have any formal education or experience in filmmaking.

We also seek candidates with degrees in other disciplines who have at least a minor (or equivalent thereof) in any of the fields mentioned above. A minor is construed as at least thirty hours of concentrated study. Applicants with film experience may be exempted from some or all of the production classes at the discretion of the program director.

MFA Program in Science and Natural History Filmmaking
Additional Application Requirements

In addition to the general requirements for admission required by the College of Graduate Studies, the MFA program also requires that you submit the following materials directly to the program:

A Resume. (2+ pages) that summarizes your education, awards or recognition, work experience, languages and any special skills;
A Personal Statement. (750 word maximum) that discusses your personal objectives in wanting to become a science/natural history filmmaker. You are encouraged to address your experience, your creative influences, or your career goals. Do not underestimate the importance of this essay. The committee will read it carefully and consider it as part of a decision.
GRE scores. Preferred scores: 550+ on the Verbal section, 600+ on the Quantitative section, and 600+ (or 4.5 + with the new system) on the Analytical section. If you have a minor score deviation in one area, please address the deficiency in your application.
A statement documenting your previous research experience (if any). Please be as specific as possible as to the nature of your research and responsibilities.
Three letters of recommendation. You may submit up to five letters of recommendation, but are required to provide a minimum of three. These letters should be from people who are in a position to adequately assess your potential. Areas of acute interest to the committee are: your ability to work collaboratively with others; your communicative skills; your ability to analyze; and your creative potential. These letters should take the place of the recommendation forms that are part of the application requirements of the School of Graduate Studies.
OPTIONAL: You may include for the committee’s consideration, a sample of your research work and/or any film or video work you have done.

The admissions committee will evaluate your application with particular attention to your potential to become a filmmaker with competence in both science and filmmaking. While the committee recognizes that you are not likely to have broad experience in both disciplines, it is very interested in whatever experience you may have had in either science or filmmaking even if it is not directly related to either science or natural history.

"When can I apply?"

We accept applications between December 1st and March 1st.

"How many students do you accept each year?"

We accept 15-17 students each year.

"Do you recommend that I visit the program?"

We don't require that applicants visit the program, but it is strongly encouraged. It is an opportunity for you to see the University, meet other students and faculty, and see our facilities. If you would like to visit us, please contact the Program Manager to find out the scheduled dates for the MSU Science and Natural History Filmmaking Program Prospective Student Orientations.

"What kind of financial support can I get?"

There is only limited financial support available for students, and that is typically given during the first year. A small number of assistantships and tuition waivers are awarded each year to those people in financial need who are willing to work in equipment checkout or act as monitors for the graduate edit bay, and so forth.
Because the program is funded directly by tuition dollars, we do not allow students in the program to accept tuition waivers from other departments in return for assistantships or other employment. We do, however, allow students to accept assistantships from other departments for stipends or considerations other than tuition waivers.

The program also allows you to write yourself into grants for your second year work, thus in effect, allowing you to get paid for your work during the second year. To date, virtually every student has successfully obtained funding for his/her second year work. The amount of money you get depends upon your success at getting external funding.

In addition, many students receive financial aid from traditional sources. The program coordinator will be happy to direct you to financial aid officers on campus.

For a complete description of financial aid available to students, go to http://www.montana.edu/wwwfa/.

In addition, many students receive financial aid from traditional sources.

"Where should I send my application?"

Mail your application to:

Graduate Program in Science and Natural History Filmmaking
School of Film & Photography
Montana State University - Bozeman
Post Office Box 173350
Visual Communications Building #202
Bozeman, MT 59717-3350

If you have questions or need an application form, write to the above address, or phone (406) 994-2484 or send an email to naturefilm@montana.edu .

Return to regular view	Text-only	Last Updated ( February 5, 2009 )

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