The School of Media Arts Master of Fine Arts is a three-year program committed to training its students to be vital contributors to a culture that has an increasing demand for media literate creators. These can be from a wide range of backgrounds: writers, artists, storytellers, educators, entrepreneurs and collaborators who are engaged and adept across disciplines. The program facilitates the development of students' unique, dynamic artistic practices while attaining mastery of the techniques and theoretical foundations necessary to create innovative work of lasting value. The walls between areas within and outside of traditional artistic practice are falling and for those who want to be an integrated part of a creative community.<br><br>Your personal work is important to us as your progress through the program, but relationships are important as well and a key to your success when you leave. The MFA program begins the process of building those connections--not in a surface way, but through finding colleagues who share goals and principles. You'll work with people within your discipline but also with those from other areas, creating a collaborative community within the program that you can build upon when you leave. <br><br>The School of Media Arts also works with industry leaders in the region and the Montana Film Office to connect students with professional opportunities in animation, film, video and web-based production, and interactive design. Opportunities within the region are growing as graduates create startup companies and find creative employment in areas that didn't exist even five years ago.<br><br>During your time here you'll develop skills in grant writing, academic presentations and professional papers to open the world of education. Curatorial and programming opportunities and internships at local film festivals and organizations exist for students who have an interest in this field on campus and in the community. Faculty members also work to create interaction with the professional community either in person or through online presentations, critiques and discussion opportunities.