What Can I Do With a Film Degree? 5 Jobs for MFA Graduates

Despite the pressure for creators to imagine and produce consistently authentic, original and influential content, the field of fine arts continues to attract countless people every year. This is largely due to the fact that careers in the fine arts allow for a high level of autonomy and self-expression. 

Jobs for MFA (Master of Fine Arts) graduates are also vast. Graduates of a respected MFA program can expect to secure careers related to the visual and performing arts, design, production, editing, creative writing and so many more.

Let’s explore just a few of the dynamic jobs for MFA graduates today.

Jobs for MFA Graduates

1. Screenwriters

Screenwriters are literary professionals who write and develop scripts for film, television, plays, commercials or other forms of media. Screenwriting professionals may produce authentic, original work or adapt a screenplay from an existing work, such as a novel or person’s life story.

Professional writers who are passionate about storytelling and adapting new and existing written art forms for media are well suited for a career in screenwriting.

2. Illustrators

Illustrators are artists who envision, create and refine original images for diverse print and digital media forms. Illustrators typically specialize in one particular kind of design medium, such as drawing, painting, photography or digital illustration.

Curious, developing artists who have diverse skills related to the visual arts are perfect candidates for careers in illustration.

3. Directors

Directors make data-driven business decisions as well as creative decisions for film, stage, television, radio and other performance productions. Directors are also responsible for choosing a production’s cast, running rehearsals and guiding actors' overall approach and portrayal within a production.

Careers for directors are incredibly competitive, but professionals who have both business acumen and an eye for creative detail may find a career in directing rewarding.

4. Videographer

Videographers are tasked with operating video cameras either on location or in a studio for professional productions. They must have a solid understanding of pre- and post-production tools including extensive lighting kits, camera systems, top-of-the-line audio equipment and more. 

Jobseekers who are interested in honing their video production skills are excellent candidates for a dynamic career in videography. 

5. Sound Designers

Sound designers create, record and edit sound and audio effects for diverse forms of interactive media, including video games, films, television, radio or live performances. Beyond effects, sound designers are responsible for working with various audio-related equipment to ensure that sound quality for a production is working appropriately.

Lovers of media who are particularly interested in exploring sound/audio design and production should consider a meaningful career in this niche area.

Studying film at Mount Saint Mary's University

Connect with our MFA degree professionals

At Mount Saint Mary’s University Los Angeles, we are proud to foster an inclusive, diverse community of artists-in-training who are all passionate about becoming experts in their specific art form. 

The unique environment of the Mount’s MFA program allows students to learn all aspects of filmmaking — proposal writing, pre-production, research, shooting, sound, editing, outreach, fundraising — and therefore discover and develop their specific talents and skills.

If you are passionate about the fine arts and if you want to secure a cutting-edge, fulfilling career related to film, television or photography, then we encourage you to get in touch with us. Please request more information, schedule an appointment with us or start your online application today.