Note for International Applicants: There are currently no funded positions. Should you still wish to apply, you will be considered for a non-funded position during the duration of the program.

MA and PhD – Cinema & Media Studies:

York University’s Graduate Program in Cinema & Media Studies is recognized internationally as one of Canada’s most innovative and dynamic film programs. Students are provided with a unique integration of cinema and media studies, hands-on skills, critical theory, and state-of-the-art production resources and pedagogy. The program offers three specializations: Cinema & Cultural Theory; National & Transnational Cinemas; Cinema & Technologies of the Image. Combined MA/MBA also available.

The MA in Cinema & Media Studies is a two-year program that supports students' academic and professional goals, offering a wide range of required and elective courses to enhance their skills and knowledge.

The PhD in Cinema & Media Studies focuses on theoretical, historical, and critical approaches to visual media, using various methodologies, cultural practices, and historiographic models. This interdisciplinary program provides comprehensive knowledge in cinema and media theory, history, and criticism, while developing research and teaching skills. Students will contribute to the field with a doctoral dissertation and engage in research, teaching, international colloquia, and academic development. The program is designed to prepare students for academic and research careers in cinema, media, cultural, and communications studies, and typically takes a minimum of four years to complete.

MFA – Film:

Canada’s only dedicated MFA program in Screenwriting trains students in all aspects of writing for the screen, including television and cinema. Award-winning filmmakers teach in the Production program, with access to extensive production facilities and state-of-the-art equipment. You’ll be closely connected to Toronto's vibrant film scene, with research centres like the Toronto International Film Festival Group Film Reference Library and production companies that provide opportunities and connections to help launch careers. Combined MFA/MBA available.

The MFA in Film offers two specialized streams: Screenwriting and Production.

In the MFA in Production, students complete a two-year program, taking courses with award-winning filmmakers and creating a thesis film or digital work. They also have access to extensive production facilities and equipment.

The MFA in Screenwriting, Canada's only dedicated program of its kind, provides training in writing for both television and cinema from renowned faculty.

In the first term, students can take courses from all three streams: Production, Screenwriting, and Cinema & Media Studies. The program is closely connected to Toronto’s dynamic film scene, offering access to research centers, film festivals like TIFF, and production companies, providing valuable opportunities and connections for career development.