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Bachelor’s Specialization in Cinematic Arts & New Mediaonline or on-campus

Kick-start your career before you graduate

Watch the student video Firefly by Radim Schreiber, 3 minutes

Our classes are project-based and focused on building your portfolio. By choosing the projects, classes, and topics you’re passionate about, you can create exactly the path you need to pursue the career of your choice.

By the time you graduate, you’ll have an impressive portfolio and know exactly what it takes to succeed in a media career.


Full immersion in each project

Watch the student video The Universe by Ashia Fredeen, 3 minutes

Our project-based classes allow you to bring your vision to life and oversee projects from conception to completion.

Our expert faculty will support your creative growth with individualized attention and constructive criticism, pushing you to new creative heights and teaching you how to innovate.

Get started by contacting Adriene

Adriene Crimson, admissions counselorAdriene Crimson is this program’s admissions counselor for US students. Adriene will provide you with all the details of becoming a student, including connecting you with the program director or faculty.

Contact Adriene >

International applicants may connect with us through our international inquiry form.


Next entry: Aug 2025Apply to MIU >Next entry: Aug 2025Apply to MIU >

Making it easy for transfer students

Students learning photographyIf you transfer in 60 or more credits, your degree can be completed in as little as four semesters. Transfer students can inquire with their admissions counselor to learn the exact number of credits needed to graduate.

Student photographing a tree

Degree requirements

To graduate with a Specialization in Cinematic Arts & New Media, students must complete:

Courses for this specialization may include

    This course examines the essential role of narrative in the creation of all forms of media. From the very beginnings of human records, whether it be mythology, scripture, literature, or the earliest cave paintings, the creators of these works have always told their audience a story or imparted a message by the use of narrative. In order to work in any creative medium, understanding the various ways in which narrative is used is a great advantage. This course will examine the range of narrative forms and narrative devices that have been used since the dawn of time right up until the modern day. We will discover that although the forms and types of media used might have changed as technology has advanced, in fact, most of the essential forms of narrative used in creative works have been with us for ages. Understanding why will reveal how narrative reflects both the universal and unique aspects of the experience of human life. As part of the course, students will be required to undertake projects that aid the development of their own narrative skills. This is a writing-intensive course. Prerequisites: WTG 191 or equivalent. (4 credits)
    Learn to harness the power of online marketing by using social media platforms — such as YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and other current favorites — for their current, future, or imagined businesses. Students will gain hands-on experience with visual marketing and modern content marketing. Topics of exploration include how to find and attract an audience to help solve their problems, organizing followers and friends to reach more people; the visual marketing creation process using, for example, large images, memes, and GIFs; e-commerce tools for social media; and developing a social media marketing strategy to successfully reach more people online. Prerequisite: basic computer skills (4 credits)
    Cinematography is the art of telling stories through moving images. By balancing camera angles, movements, and light, cinematographers translate the director’s vision into powerful images. In this course, students will learn the language of cinematography in its technical and aesthetic forms. We will explore the fundamentals of camera position and light setups. Students will practice camera movements via supported (tripod, jib, dolly, etc.) and handheld techniques, and will learn about the power of the frame in conveying story. Students will understand that clarity of mind, broad vision, and attention to detail are the cinematographer’s greatest assets, and that these develop with the growth of consciousness. Prerequisite: basic computer skills, Adobe Creative Cloud and additional camera equipment (4 credits)
    Video editing requires the student to be able to synthesize all the different elements of their video into a greater whole. The emphasis of this course is on exploring the craft of editing and the techniques used to maximize the emotional impact of the story. Students will study examples of work by accomplished editors and discover ways to build momentum and render the cut ‘invisible’. Topics include: the language of the cut, the 180-degree system, and Murch’s Rule of Six. Students will become expert in utilizing 2018/19 218 non-linear editing tools through daily editing assignments. Students will learn keyboard shortcuts and advanced trimming tools, transitions, filters, titles, keyframes, compositing tools, audio mixing, color correction, capturing and outputting. Towards the end of the course some production time will be allotted so that students may edit a final piece of their own. Students may also bring in footage that was shot previously for their final project. (4 credits) Prerequisite: MC—F282 or MC-F288 or MC-F310 or CANM282 or CANM284.
    Podcasting has become an increasingly popular and universal way to tell stories. In this course, students will learn the industry standard tools for podcasting and learn the fundamentals of audio recording, cultivate a clear and confident voice, develop a long-term strategy for their podcast, produce a script, and publish their content online. Students will learn industry-standard software and hardware (microphone, Audacity, online distribution channels), experiment with editing, mixing techniques, implementing music, sound effects, and silence to create an enriching listener experience. Students will also have the opportunity to research various styles of podcasting to expand their definition of audio storytelling and find a definitive voice that is uniquely their own. Students will explore how the nature of sound design can both expand and transcend the intended message to connect to the underlying source of the senses, pure consciousness. Prerequisites: Basic Computer Skills (4 credits)
    In this course, students will learn about the latest smartphone technology to capture high-quality images and post-process them with the most powerful smartphone apps available. Students will learn applications and programs such as Adobe Lightroom and Adobe Photoshop. Each section of the course will focus on specific aspects and styles of photography and photo processing. The course will include fun photography challenges to push our creative limits to the edge. Prerequisites: basic smartphone skills, basic computer skills, Adobe Creative Cloud License. (4 credits)

Meditate and create

student meditating

As a student at MIU, you’ll learn the Transcendental Meditation technique, an evidence-based technique that promotes inner peace and wellness, enhances clear thinking, improves learning ability, and boosts creativity.

It will also get you in touch with your deepest self, helping you to bring renewed creativity and fresh inspiration to every one of your projects.

Featured faculty

Cody Olivas

Cody Olivas

Cody Olivas

Cody Olivas is a graduate of the David Lynch Master in Fine Arts Film Program. He received an Achievement Award for his thirty-minute Thesis Film Apotheosis in the 2019 Iowa Motion Picture Awards.

Cody’s proficiency with on-set film production, sound production, and sound design has granted him many opportunities to work in and teach the art of filmmaking. He learned from professionals such as David Lynch, Jim Carrey, Peter Farrelly, and Bill Borden, and worked as an assistant director alongside world-renowned acting coach Anthony Meindl.

His passion for and knowledge as a Director of Photography has landed Cody many opportunities to work as a DP, filming several feature-length films, short films, documentaries, commercials, and promotional videos. His knowledge and diligence in sound design have earned him credits on such shows as Agent Carter, Girlfriends Guide to Divorce, Covert Affairs, and many more.

Cody is now focused on narrative films, work for corporate clients, and upcoming Oak Alley documentaries that are visually compelling and offer important insights into critical issues of our time.

Cody has also been teaching as a professor at Maharishi International University in the Cinematic Arts and New Media since 2014. His courses include Film Equipment Master, Video Editing, Sound Design for Motion Picture, Studio Photography, Smartphone Photography, Digital Music Production, and Introduction to Filmmaking.

All Department Faculty

Cost & Aid for bachelor’s degree, 2025-26

    US On-Campus Undergraduate

    This estimate is based on one year for a typical on-campus Federal Pell Grant recipient (represents 75% of our onsite undergraduates). File your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and then contact our financial aid office for questions on other variables.

    Annual Cost and Typical Financial Aid
    Tuition and fees$18,530
    Housing (single room) and meals$7,400
    Grants and Scholarship (typical)-$16,600
    Net cost per year$9,330
    Federal student loans-$9,330
    Your payment$0

    *Applicable only to students living on campus

    Additional Financial Aid Information

      $2,400 Federal Work Study is available toward your estimated $4,800 out of pocket costs.
      Scholarship from MIU described above consists of the Federal Pell Grant and the Federal Supplemental Education Grant and is based on (1) full-time enrollment and (2) financial need based on expected FAFSA outcome.
      Repayment begins after your enrollment ends. Unique repayment plans are available such as income-based, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, and deferments based on low income or unemployment.

      There are a variety of money-saving tax benefits to assist in reducing the cost of education expenses. More about education tax benefits.
      Veterans should contact the VA for information on Veterans Education Benefits. Veterans eligible for BAH monthly benefits: The VA utilizes a scale of credits per block of courses; therefore, the VA sometimes pays part-time benefits for an individual month while the university delivers full-time federal aid for an entire semester. Our Veterans Certifying Official is our Director of Financial Aid.

    Loan Repayment Options

      Payments are a fixed amount that ensures your loans are paid off within 10 years (within 10 to 30 years for Consolidation Loans).
      Payments may be fixed or graduated and will ensure that your loans are paid off within 25 years.
      Payments are lower at first and then increase, usually every two years, and are for an amount that will ensure your loans are paid off within 10 years (within 10 to 30 years for Consolidation Loans).
      Your monthly payments will be either 10 or 15 percent of discretionary income (depending on when you received your first loans), but never more than you would have paid under the 10-year Standard Repayment Plan.
      Payments are recalculated each year and are based on your updated income, family size, and the total amount of your Direct Loans. Any outstanding balance will be forgiven if you haven’t repaid your loan in full after 25 years.
      Your monthly payment is based on annual income, but your loan will be paid in full within 15 years.

    Tuition, other fees, scholarships, and financial policies are subject to change prior to the entry date. For more information, contact us at finaid@miu.edu for a quick reply — normally one business day — or see more about financial aid.

    US Online Undergraduate

    This estimate is based on one year for a typical online Federal Pell Grant recipient (represents 90% of our online undergraduates). File your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and then contact our financial aid office for questions on other variables.

    Annual Cost and Typical Financial Aid
    Tuition and fees$18,190
    Grants and scholarship (typical)-$11,700
    Net cost per year$6,490
    Federal student loan-$6,490
    Your payment$0

    The cost of housing and meals during your residency will depend on the type of housing and time of year. Part time online enrollment is available. Tuition is $600 per credit with normal load of 9-11 credits. Federal student loans are available and the federal Pell Grant is proportional to the credit load.

    Additional Financial Aid Information

      The grants and scholarship described above consist of the Federal Pell Grant, the Federal Supplemental Education Grant, and institutional scholarship based on (1) full-time enrollment and (2) financial need determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
      Many companies offer tuition assistance programs to their employees. If you’re currently employed, we encourage you to check on this. If they offer assistance, please contact MIU’s Financial Aid office.
      Federal Student Loans have limits based on lifetime usage, annual limits, and limited to the educational costs for each semester. Here are the annual maximum limits:

      • $5,500 per year for first-year dependent
      • $6,500 per year for second-year dependent
      • $7,500 per year for third, fourth, fifth-year dependent
      • $9,500 per year for first-year independent
      • $10,500 per year for second-year independent
      • $12,500 per year for third, fourth, fifth-year independent
      Federal Student Loan Repayment is postponed as long as you are enrolled at least half-time each semester. If your enrollment drops below half-time, you have a six-month grace period before repayment begins. There are also postponements for low income and unemployment, as well as repayment based on income and Public Service Forgiveness.

      There are a variety of money-saving tax benefits to assist in reducing the cost of education expenses. More about education tax benefits.
      Veterans should contact the VA for information on Veterans Education Benefits. Veterans eligible for BAH monthly benefits: The VA utilizes a scale of credits per block of courses; therefore, the VA sometimes pays part-time benefits for an individual month while the university delivers full-time federal aid for an entire semester. Our Veterans Certifying Official is our Director of Financial Aid.

    Loan Repayment Options

      Payments are a fixed amount that ensures your loans are paid off within 10 years (within 10 to 30 years for Consolidation Loans).
      Payments may be fixed or graduated and will ensure that your loans are paid off within 25 years.
      Payments are lower at first and then increase, usually every two years, and are for an amount that will ensure your loans are paid off within 10 years (within 10 to 30 years for Consolidation Loans).
      Your monthly payments will be either 10 or 15 percent of discretionary income (depending on when you received your first loans), but never more than you would have paid under the 10-year Standard Repayment Plan.
      Payments are recalculated each year and are based on your updated income, family size, and the total amount of your Direct Loans. Any outstanding balance will be forgiven if you haven’t repaid your loan in full after 25 years.
      Your monthly payment is based on annual income, but your loan will be paid in full within 15 years.

    Tuition, other fees, scholarships, and financial policies are subject to change prior to the entry date. For more information, contact us at finaid@miu.edu for a quick reply — normally one business day — or see more about financial aid.

    International On-Campus Undergraduate

    Annual Cost and Typical Financial Aid
    Tuition and fees$18,530
    Housing (single room) and meals$7,400
    Health insurance (estimate)$1,992
    Personal expenses, books, unexpected needs (estimate)$2,000
    Cost Per Year$29,922

    Full-time students may apply for up to $6,000 scholarship based on qualifying level of documented family income. Our undergraduate scholarship application form will be available upon application to the university.


    Tuition, other fees, scholarships, and financial policies are subject to change prior to the entry date.

    International Online Undergraduate

    Typically, online enrollment is two courses at a time (17 credits) or one course at a time (9-11 credits), per semester (two semesters per year).

    Tuition and Fees per Semester
    Full-time (12 or more credits)$9,095
    Fewer than 12 credits$600 per credit


    Tuition, other fees, scholarships, and financial policies are subject to change prior to the entry date.

FAQ

    No. We will teach you everything from scratch. All you need is the will to learn and some passion for the area you choose to learn. Experience always helps but we’re here to guide you through the entire process from start to finish.
    • Online Students: Yes. Our classes use up-to-date, industry-standard software like the Adobe Creative Cloud software. As a student, you are required to purchase your own Adobe Creative Cloud license. It costs $19.99/month for the first year and then $29.99/month every year after that. On top of that, you’ll have to purchase your own equipment. We will provide you with links to find the best computer, camera, lighting, and sound equipment for your budget. Contact your financial aid officer about additional grants and loans for purchasing equipment.
    • On-campus students: Yes. Each on-campus CANM class has a $20 lab fee to help pay for our expenses. This lab fee will give you access to state of the art equipment and software ranging from computer, camera, lights and sound equipment to software required to go through your classes.
    We have professional state of the art film/video, photography and sound studios as well as Youtube and podcast recording rooms and a media lounge available for our on-campus students. All you need to access our spaces and equipment is training on how to use the equipment and a $20 per class lab fee. The lab fee that you pay allows you to check out film and audio equipment and studio space for the duration of the class. You can also check out equipment even if you’re not taking a CANM class for that particular class.
    You should plan to spend 12-14 hours per week for a 4-credit eight-week course. If you are taking 2 courses during an eight-week period, you should plan to spend 24-28 hours per week reading, creating assignments and discussion forum posts, and studying course materials. The time it takes to complete an online course successfully depends on your willingness to stick to a regular schedule and learn to study effectively, more than on any other factor.
    We accomplish this by using an online learning platform that students find highly engaging. The program also features an extensive collaboration between students and one-on-one interaction between our faculty and each student
    An undergraduate major is a primary field of study during your undergraduate years. This major defines the actual degree and specifies core courses, electives, and the foundational knowledge that you will acquire. An academic specialization is a more concentrated area of courses which you can choose in addition (32 additional credits) to your major field, which may be in the same disciplinary area or something different.

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