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Everything to Know About a BFA: Film and Television

Why is Arizona’s School of Theatre, Film & Television (TFTV) Program the Best?

We visit the School of Theatre, Film & Television (TFTV), where Wildcats with a passion for storytelling are becoming the next generation of directors, screenwriters, editors, sound designers, producers, industry leaders and scholars. Do you see the world through a cinematic lens? Then check out these reasons why you need to come to Arizona.

Major: Film and Television
Degree: Bachelor of Fine Arts
College: College of Fine Arts / School of Theatre, Film & Television
By the Numbers: Ranked No. 7 Among Public Universities in The Wrap's Top 50 Film Schools.

At the University of Arizona, You'll Work with the Best.

1. Award-winning, internationally recognized faculty
You'll learn from the best: accomplished creators, researchers, and mentors who are innovating the industry forward. So, no matter where your interests lay, on the business side, in front of the camera, or behind it, you'll be sure to find a professor who shares your passion.

Meet faculty member Jacob Paul Bricca. An award-winning film editor and director whose work has been screened theatrically across the globe.

2. Get-involved internships
TFTV's Professional Internship Program is your ticket to gaining industry experience and making valuable connections. Wildcats land internships with production companies in L.A. and New York. But you don't have to go far to get far; there are many opportunities right here, on campus, and in Tucson's thriving television and film scene.   

3. Stellar facilities worthy of geeking out over
As a film and television student, you'll adhere to the highest industry standards. To support your success, you'll have access to unmatched facilities and resources. The list includes the Media Arts Production Laboratory (MARPL), Production Studio 108, The Hanson Post-Production Lab (HPL), Advanced Edit Suites (AES), The Mix to Pix room (MTP), and more, much more. We know you'll want to see this place in person, so why not schedule a tour? 

At the University of Arizona, Your Work Gets Noticed.

4. Screenings and festivals where you can strut your stuff
Every year, TFTV  showcases the best student films at premier Tucson venues like the Loft and Fox theaters – it's a lot of fun! One look and you'll know why many of them go on to seriously prestigious international film festivals around the world, including the Berlin International Film Festival and Sundance Film Festival.

Annual events include: I Dream in Widescreen 2022, What's Up, Docs?, Magic Hour, and New Directions Festival. Grab some popcorn and check out the archives.

5. And of course, our alumni never stop earning accolades
Spotlight on alumnus Paul Pennolino ('85), director of both The Daily Show with Trevor Noah and Last Week Tonight with John Oliver. Paul has earned multiple Emmy and DGA Award nominations, including a 2020 Emmy nomination for Outstanding Director for a Variety Series for Last Week Tonight. Read more about Paul and other outstanding alumni.

At The University of Arizona, You'll Find More Ways to Pay for College.

6. Film and television scholarships you won't find anywhere else
In addition to the many aid opportunities available through the university's Office of Student Financial Aid, the School of Theatre, Film & Television makes available numerous endowed scholarships awarded to fund internships, assist with productions, and recognize excellence. So, as a Wildcat, you can focus more on learning and worry less about paying for it.  

So, how will your story begin? Act 1: Become a Wildcat.

Apply to the University of Arizona

Visit the School of Theater, Film & Television