While embracing traditional forms, the program strongly encourages innovation and experimentation, and emphasizes imagination, creativity, and critical thinking. A thesis project is required for the M.F.A. degree. Ongoing workshops in life drawing and computer software provide additional educational opportunities.
Admission is once a year in the fall.
Approximately 20 students will be enrolled in each incoming class. In addition to practical production, the program also provides opportunities for fieldwork experience and internships to facilitate the student's transition into the profession. To complete the 50 units required for the M.F.A. inFilm, Video and Computer Animation, students are required to take a minimum of 12 Schoool of Cinema-Television elective units at the 400 and 500 level. Those without this background will be required to enroll in CTAN 523 Principles of Computer Animation for 2 elective units in Year One. A grade point average of at least 3.0 must be maintained in all USC course work toward the master's degree.