OPEN CALL: MFA Film Art Edinburgh College of Art (ECA)

Edinburgh College of Art (ECA) at the University of Edinburgh is delighted to launch its Master of Fine Art (MFA) in Film Art, a distinctive two-year postgraduate programme designed for filmmakers, artists, and creative thinkers who want to explore cinema beyond conventional boundaries. This exciting degree, starting in September 2026, is now open for applications and welcomes candidates from diverse backgrounds to join a vibrant international community shaping the future of contemporary film practice.

At the heart of the MFA Film Art is a belief that filmmaking can be a creative, reflective and exploratory art form. The programme is jointly taught by Edinburgh College of Art and Paris College of Art, offering students a truly international educational experience across two cultural capitals. Over two years, students will work collaboratively and individually to develop their own artistic visions while advancing technical skills, creative analysis, and research-driven practice.

This degree invites applicants interested in fiction, experimental or expanded forms of filmmaking, providing the freedom to approach cinema as art, narrative, theory and practice. Students will be encouraged to challenge conventions, embrace interdisciplinary approaches, and pursue bold ideas that reflect their distinct voices.

A two-year journey across cities and practices
In Year I, taught at Edinburgh College of Art, you will build essential practical skills, engage with wider artistic practices and develop individual research methods to inform your creative work. You will begin shaping your final thesis film project—exploring concept development, test filming, and early production planning.

In Year II, you’ll be based at Paris College of Art, where you will take your project through full production and post-production. This year emphasises principal photography, detailed pre-production processes like storyboarding and budgeting, and the creative rigour of editing, sound design and exhibition preparation.

Throughout both years, the programme incorporates co-curricular events, field trips and festival experiences that deepen your engagement with the broader industry. Practical workshops, critique screenings and seminars with industry professionals will enrich your perspective and support connections with peers and experts across film and related arts. Field trips include collaborative workshops with Paris College of Art and attendance at major international film festivals to broaden artistic exposure and professional networks.

Learn from practising filmmakers and artists
The MFA Film Art is led by an exceptional team of filmmakers, artists and educators who bring real-world experience into the classroom. Programme Director Dr Alex Nevill combines extensive work as a Director of Photography with practice-led research that unites film theory and artistic inquiry. His collaborative work with Programme Co-director Paris College of Art’s Harald Hutter brings a rich international dimension to the curriculum.

Staff also include experimental filmmaker and Teaching Fellow Scott Barley, known for his contemplative and sensory approach to cinema, and visual artist and researcher Aurélien Froment. Their varied perspectives ensure students are supported to explore diverse cinematic languages and expand their own creative practices. Hear from our staff.

Preparing you for an evolving film landscape
The MFA Film Art equips graduates with a range of professional opportunities. Graduates will be suitable to pursue careers as directors, cinematographers, editors, producers, sound designers, writers, researchers and more. Some continue into doctoral research or secure teaching positions.

As part of the University of Edinburgh community, students also benefit from comprehensive support services, access to world-class facilities including studios and editing suites, and a rich cultural backdrop. Edinburgh’s dynamic arts scene—home to major festivals, galleries and creative events—provides fertile ground for film-making inspiration and engagement.

Apply now for September 2026
If you are ready to push the boundaries of cinema, experiment with new forms and create work that resonates across screens and spaces, the MFA Film Art is for you. Applications are open, and early submission is encouraged, especially for those seeking funding or requiring a visa. Explore the programme and how to apply on our website: MFA Film Art.