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    Northwestern University

    Master of Fine Arts in Documentary Media

    Last verified against the official program page on .

    Evanston, USMFAIn-person2 years
    $68,919.00
    Tuition
    over 24mo
    12
    Cohort
    students
    18
    Credits
    $95.00
    App fee

    Master of Fine Arts in Documentary Media at Northwestern University is a 18-credit, 2-year, in-person MFA program based in Evanston, US. Tuition is $68,919.

    About the program

    The program focuses on nonfiction filmmaking, hybrid techniques blending documentary and narrative, and emerging media technologies. Students produce short films, interactive projects, and a thesis project while taking core courses in documentary practices, techniques, and thesis development.

    Focus: both
    Times Higher Ed World University Rankings 2026: 30th

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    Deadlines

    Fall 2027
    Dec 2, 2026

    Standardized tests

    TOEFL
    optional
    Min The minimum score for the TOEFL is 600 paper / 250 computer / 80 Internet
    IELTS
    optional
    Min 7.0 for the IELTS

    After the program

    Post-study work rights

    12 months OPT (US)

    $22,059.00
    Annual living cost

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    Prerequisites

    Specific coursework this program expects you to have completed: calculus, linear algebra, programming, statistics, and subject-specific prerequisites where applicable.

    Recommendations

    Exact count of letters required, whether academic vs professional references are preferred, and any program-specific guidance on who to ask.

    Essays

    Number of essays required (statement of purpose, personal statement, diversity statement), prompts where the program publishes them, and whether supplemental essays are optional or mandatory.

    Contact

    Direct email and phone for the admissions office handling this program, plus a link to the program-specific inquiry page where available.

    Frequently asked questions

    How much does Master of Fine Arts in Documentary Media at Northwestern University cost?
    The total estimated tuition for Master of Fine Arts in Documentary Media at Northwestern University is $68,919 across 18 required credits.
    Is Master of Fine Arts in Documentary Media at Northwestern University online or in-person?
    Master of Fine Arts in Documentary Media at Northwestern University is offered in-person.
    How long does Master of Fine Arts in Documentary Media at Northwestern University take to complete?
    Master of Fine Arts in Documentary Media at Northwestern University is structured around 2 years and 18 credits.
    How large is the Master of Fine Arts in Documentary Media at Northwestern University cohort?
    Master of Fine Arts in Documentary Media at Northwestern University typically enrolls around 12 students per cohort.
    What work-permit options follow Master of Fine Arts in Documentary Media at Northwestern University?
    Post-completion work rights for Master of Fine Arts in Documentary Media at Northwestern University: 12 months OPT (US)