California Institute of the Arts

Bachelor in Film and Video (BFA)

Valencia, United States

The Bachelor in Film and Video (BFA) at California Institute of the Arts is a program for international students taught in English.

Introduction

California Institute of the Arts, located near Valencia in Southern California, is a leading institution for creative education founded with a legacy of innovation in the arts. CalArts encourages experimental practice across disciplines including art, film, music, theater, dance, and animation, and offers a compact, studio-focused learning environment where students develop original work under the mentorship of practicing artists and industry professionals.

The institute promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and hands-on learning, supporting individual artistic development with cutting-edge studios, performance spaces, and digital labs. Small class sizes and intensive critique-based courses help students refine their voices and build professional portfolios, while visiting artists, festivals, and partnerships provide exposure to the wider creative industry. Academic advising, portfolio coaching, and career development services support transitions to festivals, galleries, studios, and commercial roles.

International students find a welcoming community and opportunities to participate in collaborative projects, residencies, and public exhibitions that elevate their practice. CalArts fosters a culture of experimentation, critical inquiry, and professional networking, making it a strong choice for creative learners who seek rigorous mentorship, cross-disciplinary exploration, and direct engagement with the contemporary arts scene in the United States.

About the Program

The Bachelor in Film and Video (BFA) at California Institute of the Arts is a degree program for students who want to learn about film and video production. This 4-year program helps students develop technical and practical skills in English.

Students learn about cinematic expression, critical thinking, and artistic growth through required classes and experiments with different forms of film and video. They also get hands-on experience and feedback through a Mid-Residency Review in their third semester.

After graduating, students can pursue careers as Film Editors, Cinematographers, Screenwriters, or Directors in the film and television industry, working for companies like Warner Bros, Netflix, or Universal Pictures.

Similar Programs You Can Apply To

Direct application via Global Admissions is not available for this program. Browse similar partner programs below or visit the university's site to apply directly.

Edit Program

Related Blog Posts

Show More Blog Posts →
Apply Now