Film and Video Studies Admissions

Apply for a Scholarship

To be considered, complete the Film and Video Studies Scholarship Application by January 26.

Attend an Event

Join us at one of our many screenings and events around the year!

You will learn about the creation, production and post-production of fiction, documentary and experimental styles of film and video and its parallel forms, including television, transmedia, mobile and web media, through the Interdisciplinary Bachelors of Arts degree.

Photo: Maurice C. Jones. FAVS students are immersed immediately in their craft and given opportunities to explore their creativity through fiction, documentary and experimental styles of film and video.

In preparation for a wide range of careers in the film industry, majors take courses in Film and Media Studies, English, Communication, Theater, Game Design, Art, and other subjects. Film and Video Studies students are invited to leverage the extraordinary connections, alumni network, and arts partnerships to both complete the required internship and gain real-world experience.

Application to Film at Mason is a two-step process

Apply to Mason through the Common Application, or directly through Mason's online application. You do not need to wait to get a response from Admissions before moving to step two.

Submit a digital portfolio via SlideRoom that will be evaluated by our faculty. Your digital portfolio includes two short essays and creative work samples (described in detail below). Incomplete portfolios will not be considered.

Part 1: Write a 500 word essay describing your interest and influences in studying the history and craft of independently produced film and video and related media forms.

Part 2: Choose ONE of the following:

350-word treatment for an original fiction film.
350-word plan for a documentary film (i.e. a story involving participants and representing real life).
350-word proposal for a television pilot or series.

Examples are available from current/past students

Part 3: Submit a sample of your creative work and a descriptive statement.

Samples: This can be (but not limited to) a short video, demo reel, photographs, website, animation, drawing, collage, graphic novel, comic book cells, poetry, or script.
Descriptive Statement (25-100 words):
Describe your sample of creative work (e.g. medium, context, etc.). If applicable, include collaborators, your specific role, and use of copyrighted media.