City University of New York

What you'll study

The programme combines practical production training with courses in film and television history, theory and criticism. Core modules typically cover visual storytelling and cinematography, sound design, editing and post-production, screenwriting, directing, and production management. Students also study contextual subjects such as film history, media studies, documentary practices and contemporary television formats.

Teaching emphasises project-based learning: you will produce short films, web series episodes and documentary pieces, and learn technical skills in camera, lighting, sound and digital editing suites. Coursework normally culminates in a capstone production or research project that showcases both creative and analytical skills.

Elective options allow specialisation in areas such as documentary production, experimental media, animation, producing for television, or new media distribution. Many programmes within the CUNY system also encourage cross-disciplinary study with departments such as theatre, music, journalism and computer science, enabling collaborative projects and broadened career skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary-school leaving qualification. Admissions decisions consider academic records and the strength of a candidate's interest in film and television; some campuses request a personal statement outlining creative aims and relevant experience. A creative portfolio or sample work (short films, scripts, editing reels or related projects) is often encouraged and can strengthen an application, though requirements vary by campus.

Where interviews or practical assessments are used, they typically focus on creative potential, technical aptitude and readiness for a production-focused curriculum. Mature applicants and those with relevant workplace experience are assessed on comparable criteria. You should check the specific campus or departmental guidance within CUNY for any additional materials required.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue careers across the screen industries and related cultural sectors. Typical roles include director, producer, cinematographer, editor, sound designer, screenwriter, assistant director, production manager, and post-production specialist. Many alumni also work in television production, online content creation, festival programming, distribution and publicity, or move into journalism, education and arts administration.

The degree also provides a foundation for postgraduate study in film, media studies, digital media or business-related disciplines such as arts management. Practical experience gained during the programme and internships in New York’s media sector can be particularly valuable for entering the industry.

Why study at City University of New York

Studying within the City University of New York gives direct access to one of the world’s most active media centres. Students benefit from industry-facing opportunities such as internships, guest lectures from practitioners, and collaborative projects with local production companies and cultural organisations. CUNY campuses supporting film and television programmes typically provide production facilities, editing labs and screening spaces suited to undergraduate work.

The university’s public mission and diverse student body foster a wide range of storytelling perspectives, while the urban setting makes it easy to build professional networks and gain hands-on experience. The system’s multiple campuses also allow students to take advantage of cross-campus course options and partnerships, broadening both technical training and critical study.

Practical, collaborative and situated in a major media hub, the FILMTV-BA at CUNY prepares students for creative practice and critical engagement with film and television industries.