M.F.A. in Documentary Production and Studies

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 75

1. Academic Qualifications:

   • To be eligible for admission to a postgraduate program at UNT, international students should have a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution.                                                                                                                                                                                                    

2. English Language Proficiency:

   • IELTS: An overall score of 6.5 or higher is required, with no individual band score lower than 6.
   • TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 79 or higher is expected.
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 53 or higher is required.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): A score of 100 or higher is the requirement. 

The University of North Texas (UNT) offers a variety of scholarships to support international students in pursuing their education in the United States. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic achievement, leadership potential, and contributions to the UNT community. 

1. International Excellence Scholarship: This merit-based scholarship is awarded to new undergraduate and graduate international students. The scholarship amount varies and can significantly offset tuition costs.

2. International Education Scholarship: This scholarship is available for undergraduate and graduate students. It is awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, and contributions to international education on campus.

3. International Transfer Scholarship: International transfer students can apply for this scholarship, which is based on their academic performance at their previous institution. It helps ease the financial burden of transferring to UNT.

4. International Student Emergency Fund: UNT provides this fund to assist international students facing unexpected financial emergencies or hardships.

5. Cultural Scholarships: UNT offers cultural scholarships that recognize and celebrate students' cultural and ethnic backgrounds. These scholarships support diversity and promote cultural awareness on campus.

6. Graduate Assistantships: Many graduate programs at UNT offer assistantship opportunities that include a stipend and tuition benefits. These positions allow international graduate students to gain valuable research or teaching experience while pursuing their degrees.

7. Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments and colleges within UNT may offer scholarships specific to students in their programs. These scholarships often consider academic achievement and area of study.

8. Athletic Scholarships: UNT offers athletic scholarships to student-athletes who excel in various sports. These scholarships are based on athletic performance and can cover tuition and related expenses.

9. External Scholarships: International students can explore external scholarship opportunities from organizations, governments, and foundations outside of UNT. The International Student Office can provide guidance on finding these scholarships.

10. Private Scholarships: Some private organizations and donors provide scholarships to international students. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria and application processes.

It's important to note that scholarship availability and eligibility criteria can change from year to year.

The Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Documentary Production and Studies program at UNT is a distinctive and comprehensive offering designed to equip students with advanced knowledge, practical skills, and a deep understanding of documentary filmmaking. This program prepares students for dynamic careers in the field of documentary production, film studies, and media communication.

1. Documentary Filmmaker: Many graduates choose to become documentary filmmakers, producing engaging and thought-provoking documentaries on a wide range of subjects. They may work on independent projects, collaborate with production companies, or contribute to television networks and streaming platforms.

2. Director/Producer: Graduates can take on roles as directors or producers, overseeing the creative and logistical aspects of documentary projects. They are responsible for shaping the narrative and managing the production process.

3. Cinematographer: Some graduates specialize in cinematography, working as directors of photography (DPs) or camera operators, responsible for capturing compelling visuals in documentaries.

4. Editor: Film editing is a crucial part of documentary production. Graduates may pursue careers as film editors, working on both creative and technical aspects of documentary post-production.

5. Researcher: Documentaries often require in-depth research. Graduates may work as researchers, gathering information, conducting interviews, and contributing to the factual accuracy of documentary content.

6. Sound Engineer: Audio quality is essential in documentary filmmaking. Sound engineers work to capture and enhance the audio elements of documentaries.

7. Film Critic/Reviewer: Some graduates may choose to become film critics or reviewers, analyzing and providing insights on documentary films for print, online publications, or television.

8. Film Festival Coordinator: Graduates may work in the organization and coordination of film festivals, helping to curate documentary film selections and manage festival logistics.

9. Media Educator/Professor: For those interested in academia, becoming a media educator or professor allows graduates to teach documentary production and film studies at colleges and universities.

10. Video Journalist: Video journalists use documentary-style storytelling to cover news and events for television stations, online news outlets, or video journalism platforms.

11. Broadcast Producer: Graduates may work as broadcast producers, overseeing the development and production of documentary programs for television networks and channels.

12. Media Content Strategist: Media content strategists work in media companies, helping to plan and develop documentary content strategies for traditional and digital media.

13. Documentary Sales and Distribution: Graduates can work in the sales and distribution of documentaries, helping filmmakers to reach wider audiences and secure distribution deals.

14. Archivist/Curator: Archives and museums often require professionals to manage and curate documentary collections and exhibits.