Ohio University has long been one of the best kept secrets in MFA film programs. Located in the foothills of Appalachia, in the small college town of Athens, there are beautiful natural exteriors. The theater program is top notch, producing talented designers, writers and actors who regularly work with the filmmakers to make films that do well on the festival circuit. The program is small and intimate with caring faculty who continue to produce their own diverse body of work. The 40 year old IMBD and Oscar qualifying Athens International Film and Video Festival brings amazing international, independent, experimental, narrative, and documentary film and filmmakers to Athens every year. Students have opportunities to see a range of new work and meet the filmmakers. The first year "Bootcamp" gives students a foundation in screenwriting, camera, production, acting, directing, sound and editing as they make two black and white films, and one HD documentary. The next two years allow more specialization and individualization as students hone in on their career tracks.
Most students receive some funding packages that include some combination of tuition waivers and stipends for Graduate Assistantships. The funding combined with the affordability of living in Athens, the 24 hour access to an Avid editing lab, the access to lighting and camera equipment, and the affordability of shooting films in Athens makes this an affordable place to study and make quality films that will jump start your filmmaking career.
Ohio University has produced many successful independent filmmakers, film professors, experimental filmmakers, documentary filmmakers, and professionals working in editing, producing, screenwriting, casting, and all areas of film and media.
Most students receive some funding packages that include some combination of tuition waivers and stipends for Graduate Assistantships. The funding combined with the affordability of living in Athens, the 24 hour access to an Avid editing lab, the access to lighting and camera equipment, and the affordability of shooting films in Athens makes this an affordable place to study and make quality films that will jump start your filmmaking career.
Ohio University has produced many successful independent filmmakers, film professors, experimental filmmakers, documentary filmmakers, and professionals working in editing, producing, screenwriting, casting, and all areas of film and media.
