The Master of Fine Arts in Media Arts is a rigorous three-year program that focuses on each individual's personal and creative development within the context of media arts. Each student works toward an individual thesis project that incorporates research and theoretical exploration of a topic of their choice, to produce a refined body of work that culminates in an MFA exhibition. DMA graduate students come from many fields and artists from diverse backgrounds including the visual arts, sciences, and engineering are encouraged to apply.

The program is focused on preparing students in three primary ways. First, through the acquisition and development of technical and craft-based skills in various related media. Second, by building a thorough theoretical foundation in media history and theory, and supporting each student’s journey in developing their own unique discursive framework through writing, research, and interdisciplinary engagement with other departments at UCLA. Finally, by helping students hone a sophisticated and compelling body of work, through critiques, seminars, exhibitions, and one-on-one mentorship.