Build Community
Overcome the shelf life of your projects
Filmmaking dreams often stall due to the demands of traditional programs that require relocation. And, it can be tough to advance when you're working alone. This can leave you feeling trapped with your creative ideas gathering dust instead of moving forward on screen.VCFA understands these challenges and is here to help you overcome them.

Breathe life into your
projects

Students of VCFA's MFA in Film program are turning
their scripts and concepts into successful films. With
access to expert mentors and a community of fellow
filmmakers, our students consistently tell stories of
artistic breakthroughs and professional advancements.
Students of VCFA's MFA in Film program are turning their scripts and concepts into successful films. With access to expert mentors and a community of fellow filmmakers, our students consistently tell stories of artistic breakthroughs and professional advancements.
A flexible MFA program

VCFA is an affiliate of California Institute of the
Arts (CalArts) and offers a unique MFA in Film
that fits your life. Enjoy a student-led curriculum
that emphasizes your unique vision and style,
allowing you to learn and create without the need
to move. Get personalized mentorship from
faculty who are active in the film industry and ready
to guide your progress.
VCFA is an affiliate of California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) and offers a unique MFA in Film that fits your life. Enjoy a student-led curriculum that emphasizes your unique vision and style, allowing you to learn and create without the need to move. Get personalized mentorship from faculty who are active in the film industry and ready to guide your progress.


We know the
filmmaker's path

At VCFA, we know the hurdles filmmakers face. Our
program is designed to help you overcome these
challenges with a personalized plan that adapts to
your needs, ensuring that your education is as dynamic
as your career aspirations. Trust our experienced
faculty to provide the support you need to succeed.
At VCFA, we know the hurdles filmmakers face. Our program is designed to help you overcome these challenges with a personalized plan that adapts to your needs, ensuring that your education is as dynamic as your career aspirations. Trust our experienced faculty to provide the support you need to succeed.
Three steps to your MFA in Film

1. Apply Online
Start your application through vcfa.edu and prepare to join a community of visionary filmmakers.

2. Attend a nine-day residency intensive
Head to CalArts for residency and get assigned to your mentor. Get inspired, build community, and be immersed in the epicenter of film.

3. Create and
showcase
With guidance from your mentor, work 25 hours a week on individualized projects specific to your learning goals. Complete your degree by repeating four more residencies and work mostly from home.
Hear from our successful alumnx
My experience at VCFA meeting advisors, staff, and inspiring fellow students was incredibly valuable. It was one of the best decisions I ever made.

Emilie McDonald
(F '24)
The program at VCFA is a wonderful hybrid of being able to collaborate in-person with filmmakers and at the same time have flexibility, so I could continue my life in New York City or anywhere else.

Brad Bailey
(F '22)
I used VCFA to improve the quality, scope, nuance, depth, and artistic acumen of my work.

John Valadez
(F '19)
Achieve your filmmaking dreams
Join VCFA's MFA in Film program and you will:
Take the first step towards making your film dreams a reality.

Not ready to apply but want to join our community? Sign up for an info session today!
BONUS: Download our decision-making guide: Redefining Film School
