Master of Fine Arts (MFA) Degree - Sound Design

Graduate students will meet the following student performance criteria:

MFA Thesis Project

Plan an original portfolio of work worthy of the MFA degree
Complete an original MFA thesis which represents an advanced level of achievement in the field of sound design for visual media
Listening Skills and Critical Thinking

Analyze visual elements and execute innovative sound design and editorial for visual media
Demonstrate an advanced understanding of the singular elements and overall combinations of sound design
Think critically and demonstrate flexibility in creating or editing music for client needs
Soundtrack for Visual Media

Create compelling, balanced and professional sound mixes
Create sound which supports or heightens the emotional impacts of visual images (or visual material)
Production Skills and Technical Knowledge

Demonstrate expert-level proficiency with software related to contemporary sound production techniques
Professional Readiness

Present a comprehensive demo reel / portfolio demonstrating professional-level achievement
Collaborate effectively with a creative team on a given project, such as a film, television show, animation, game, multimedia project, or commercial
Academy of Art University Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the Academy of Art University will demonstrate the ability to:

Produce a body of work suitable for seeking professional opportunities in their chosen field of art and design.
Solve creative problems within their field of art and design, including research and synthesis of technical, aesthetic, and conceptual knowledge.
Communicate their ideas professionally and connect with their intended audience using visual, oral, and written presentation skills relevant to their field.
Execute technical, aesthetic, and conceptual decisions based on an understanding of art and design principles.

MFA Sound Design Degree Requirements

Successful completion of Final Thesis Project
Minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA
Minimum grade of C in all required 63 units