MTSU Launches First-of-Its-Kind MFA in Film and Television in Tennessee

The 60-credit-hour program is the first public university MFA of its kind in the state.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 7:19pm

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An extremely blurred, impressionistic photograph showing the silhouettes of film production equipment and crew members working on a set, with warm, soft pools of light and color creating an atmospheric, dreamlike mood.The new MFA program at MTSU will provide students with specialized, hands-on training to advance their creative careers in the evolving film and television industry.Murfreesboro Today

Middle Tennessee State University is introducing a new Master of Fine Arts in Film and Television program, set to begin in Fall 2026. Housed within the Scott Borchetta College of Media and Entertainment, the 60-credit-hour program is the first and only MFA of its kind at a public university in Tennessee. The program aims to prepare students for advanced creative roles in the film and television industry.

Why it matters

The new MFA program at MTSU provides an opportunity for students to develop advanced skills in multiple media formats, including narrative and documentary filmmaking, episodic television, live production, and emerging technologies. This terminal degree also opens pathways for graduates to pursue teaching opportunities at the college and university level.

The details

The MFA in Film and Television is designed as a fully on-ground, three-year graduate degree that will offer students access to extensive production resources, including a state-of-the-art virtual production XR stage, a live production truck for broadcast events, a dedicated soundstage, private editing suites, and a wide range of professional-grade equipment. Collaboration is also central to the program's design, with opportunities for students to work alongside peers in areas such as animation, audio production, journalism, interactive media, and music.

  • The new Master of Fine Arts in Film and Television program launches in Fall 2026 at Middle Tennessee State University.

The players

Allie Sultan

Professor and media arts assessment coordinator at Middle Tennessee State University.

Scott Borchetta College of Media and Entertainment

The college at Middle Tennessee State University that will house the new MFA program.

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What they’re saying

“This program is designed for students who are ready to take the next step in their creative and professional journey. Whether continuing directly from undergraduate study, transitioning into the industry, or advancing an existing career, the M.F.A. provides the skills and experience needed to lead in today's evolving media landscape.”

— Allie Sultan, Professor and media arts assessment coordinator

“Our mission is to develop an innovative, highly skilled workforce ready to create original, high-quality film and television content. This program is about preparing students not just to enter the industry, but to help shape its future.”

— Allie Sultan, Professor and media arts assessment coordinator

What’s next

Students interested in the new MFA in Film and Television program can find more information on the MTSU website.

The takeaway

The launch of MTSU's MFA in Film and Television program represents a significant milestone for the state of Tennessee, providing aspiring filmmakers and television professionals with a unique opportunity to develop their skills and advance their careers in the industry.