Lesley University

What you'll study

The programme combines workshops, seminars and project-based modules that cover narrative and documentary production, screenwriting, cinematography, sound design, editing and post-production. Core elements typically include production labs where students collaborate on short films, advanced editing and colour-correction practice, directing and performance workshops, and courses in film history and contemporary media theory to situate practical work in a critical context.

Students focus on development and completion of a substantial capstone project—often a thesis film or portfolio of short work—supported by modules in producing, festival strategy and distribution. Electives and cross-disciplinary options allow further study in animation, new media, community-based documentary practice and collaborative projects with departments such as theatre, creative writing and visual arts. Technical training covers industry-standard cameras, lighting, sound recording, nonlinear editing systems and workflow for digital cinematography.

Typical module topics

• Directing and Collaborative Production
• Advanced Cinematography and Lighting
• Sound Design and Production Sound
• Editing Theory and Practice
• Screenwriting for Film and Long-form Media
• Documentary Methods and Ethics
• Film History, Aesthetics and Theory
• Producing, Festival Strategy and Distribution

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree in any discipline, although applicants with substantial professional experience in film or media may also be considered. Typical application materials include an academic transcript, a personal statement outlining creative goals and project ideas, a CV, and two academic or professional references.

Most applicants submit a creative portfolio or sample work—such as short films, scripts, video reels or documentary excerpts—that demonstrates filmmaking ability and artistic intent. International applicants must meet the university's English language requirements; specific thresholds and accepted tests are listed by the university and should be checked on the official admissions pages.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a range of roles across the film, television and digital media sectors. Common career paths include director, cinematographer, film editor, sound designer, producer, screenwriter and documentary filmmaker. Alumni also work in post-production houses, independent production companies, broadcast and streaming organisations, educational institutions and cultural organisations such as film festivals and community media centres.

The programme’s practical focus and portfolio-development emphasise employability for creative roles and freelance careers; students often progress into festival circuits, independent commissioning, or roles within production departments and post-production facilities. Cross-disciplinary skills also support careers in advertising, branded content, immersive media and online content creation.

Why study at Lesley University

Lesley offers a small-cohort, mentor-led environment where students receive intensive feedback and direct access to faculty who are active practitioners. The university’s art-and-design heritage supports cross-disciplinary collaboration, enabling film students to work with peers in visual arts, theatre and creative writing.

Located in the Boston-Cambridge area, Lesley provides proximity to a vibrant regional film and media community, festivals, galleries and production houses—useful for internships, networking and collaborative projects. The programme emphasises practical resource access, including equipment, editing labs and screening spaces, and combines technical training with critical and professional development to prepare graduates for creative careers in contemporary media.