MFA In Television, Film, and Theatre

WE HAVE MADE BIG CHANGES TO THE MFA PROGRAM!

For the Fall 2026 admissions cycle, we will be folding all incoming students into one cohort.  This NEW option includes students from all three previous cohorts – ACTING, WRITING and CONTENT CREATION.   

We believe the future of Theater, Film and Television lies in the Multi-Hyphenate Artist. Discover new skills, challenge your assumptions, and—perhaps most importantly—find your creative collaborators.

We believe in the safe practice of artistic exploration. This is your sandbox! 
There are so many programs for students pursuing one discipline, but we are different!  We’re here for the boundary-crossers—the artists whose creativity expands when they leap between forms, ideas, and mediums.

We believe our graduates will be pioneers, finding new ways to tell their stories and thrive as artists. 
In a decade marked by transformation across Television, Film, and Theater, our graduates won’t just adapt—they’ll lead.

The MFA in Television, Film, and Theatre (MFA in TVFT) is a three-year terminal degree program designed to provide immersive, hands-on training in theatre and film/television production. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and practical experience, the program also integrates pedagogy, production, and career development to prepare students for dynamic futures. 

Graduates, equipped with both an MFA and professional experience, are qualified to work and teach in professional theatre, film, television, and academic settings.  

The MFA in TVFT curriculum offers students the structure and rigor expected from an MFA program, while still being flexible enough to respond and adapt to students’ individual pursuits and interests. 

Classes
Our curated roadmap is built to elevate your craft—whether you're exploring a new discipline or honing strengths you already possess.   

Resources
There is an inventory of equipment reserved for MFA students and space allocated for their work.  Students are encouraged to set out on their own and make work.  

University opportunities
Situated within a large, diverse university, our program offers unparalleled access to a wide array of classes, campus activities, and invaluable opportunities to teach, collaborate, and share productions with a vibrant undergraduate community.

Critique
In this program, you’ll learn to give, and receive thoughtful critique and develop the confidence to take what’s useful, let go of what’s not, and hone your work. 

Professional Access
Our Full-Time Faculty, Lecturers, and Guest Artists are active professionals working across the interconnected worlds of Theater, Film, and Television.  Cal State LA is located in the movie capital of the world and a sprawling urban center with over 100 theater companies.   

For 2026, prospective students will apply to the program in ONE OPTION which combines all three previous options – ACTING, WRITING and CONTENT CREATION.  

All students follow a road map that includes a core curriculum spanning all three disciplines across TV, Film and Theater. In year two, the program offers flexibility for students to steer their own journey based on individual interests and aspirations. The final year culminates in a capstone project that reflects and synthesizes the skills, vision, and collaborations you’ve cultivated throughout the program.