Independent Film & Digital Imaging, M.F.A.

The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Visual and Critical Studies at Governors State University is an advanced, interdisciplinary studio and research graduate program that integrates artistic practice with critical inquiry to prepare creative professionals for careers as artists, cultural thinkers, and arts leaders. Through individualized mentorship, interdisciplinary coursework, and self-directed research, you’ll explore advanced artistic methods across media while developing a rigorous understanding of historical and theoretical perspectives that shape creative practice today.

The MFA in Visual and Critical Studies at Governors State University is a dynamic, practice-based graduate program that unites conceptual exploration, studio expertise, and critical reflection. Designed for artists, designers, scholars, and creative innovators, this program encourages you to expand your artistic voice while engaging deeply with contemporary theory, cultural frameworks, and critical discourse.

Opportunities for exhibitions, professional collaborations, and community partnerships help you cultivate leadership capabilities, build a professional portfolio, and prepare for careers in visual arts, creative entrepreneurship, teaching, curation, cultural leadership, and related fields. Whether your work is studio-based, research-oriented, or both, this program supports your growth as a reflective, articulate, and culturally engaged maker.

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Career Outcomes

With an MFA in Independent Film and Digital Imaging—a terminal degree—you can pursue careers in various settings, such as photography, filmmaking, graphic design, corporate communications, and teaching at the college level.

Are you already working as a filmmaker or photographer? We may be able to give you Advanced Standing.

Are you already a seasoned filmmaker or photographer, having worked in your field and wanting to add the MFA credential to your CV? GovState considers Advanced Standing for students who possess a bachelor’s degree and strong experience in the fields of film and photography. Students joining from the professions will have their prior work assessed in a way that may facilitate assigning credit for work experience, putting a significant dent in the number of credits needed for completion.

Fine Artist / Visual Artist – $59,000 (median)
Art Director – $106,000 (median)
Postsecondary Art Instructor – $80,000–$100,000
Curator / Museum Specialist – $60,000–$90,000
Arts Administrator / Program Manager – $65,000–$95,000
Graphic or Multimedia Designer – $57,000–$85,000

What You'll Study

Our academic catalog has detailed information about what you'll study, like courses, hours needed for completion, and other requirements.

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How to Apply

You'll need certain documents and meet certain requirements in order to apply. Read about them on our admissions pages.

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Financial Aid and Scholarships

At Governors State University (GovState), graduate students have several financial aid and scholarship options to help make advanced study more affordable. To access federal student aid, including unsubsidized loans up to certain annual limits, graduate students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year using GovState’s school code (009145) and be enrolled at least half-time; federal student loans are one of the most common forms of support for graduate study.

Beyond loans, GovState offers a variety of scholarships through its Scholarship Universe platform, which matches students to institutional and external funding opportunities based on their profile and responses, and sends notifications when new awards are posted.

In addition, some students may qualify for graduate assistantships, on-campus employment, or discipline-specific awards that provide tuition assistance, stipends, or both. Advisors in the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships can help graduate students explore these resources, navigate eligibility requirements, and plan a financial strategy that includes budgeting, loan counseling, and scholarship applications tailored to their goals.

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"The MFA program encourages you to take your big ideas and turn them into a real production by providing you with the creative channels, skills, and knowledge you need to do it. My professors gave me the push to take strategic risks and follow my passion—that created confidence that I now implement in my current job where I use the skills I gained as an M.F.A. student in studio production, filming, and editing."Here's a notable quote from this person about their experience at GovState.
Uriah Berryhill GovState Alum and Filmmaker in DLMD

Get Involved

MFA students can enhance their graduate experience by engaging with professional networks, creative communities, and opportunities that extend learning beyond the studio and classroom. Participate in graduate exhibitions, public talks, and visiting artist programs that showcase your work and connect you to broader audiences. Join or help organize creative research groups or peer critique circles to share studio practice, feedback, and ideas. Organizations like College Art Association (CAA) provide a major national community for artists, critics, and scholars offering conferences, publications, and mentoring.