I graduated from the University of Miami undergrad film program in May. A few decent films came out of the grad school, but they were almost outdone by the undergrads. There are a few good professors, but they are mostly on the film studies side of things. For example, we have probably the leading expert on Alfred Hitchcock. But most of the production professors leave a lot to be desired. There are a few good ones. The department head is pretty oblivious to everything student-related. The best 90 minutes of student films are screened at the Paramount theater in May, which is a huge plus. Quite a few people have gotten jobs out of that. My senior film was selected for that, it was a great experience. Here are the films selected for that night if you want some examples of films that come out of the grad program: http://students.com.miami.edu/~ed/LA2011/La2011.html

I am currently an MFA candidate in the Graduate Motion Picture Program at the University of Miami. I am in the Producing Track, and entering into my third year of Grad School, because my production partner and I chose to extend our program to three years in order to complete our thesis, which is a full length feature that has gotten full support from the program and the faculty. Although it is not part of the curriculum yet, the Program Director is hoping to use the success of the project to implement some more aggressive thesis projects. And also the program has already transitioned to the three year vs. two year, which I think is a great idea since many other reputable MFA programs run on a 3-year time frame.

Also I love the freedom that you are given in the UMiami Grad Program. I was in the Motion Picture program as an undergrad as well and chose to stay because of faculty support and a GAship. Since being a Grad student here, I have had to opportunity to work with amazing professors that are always encouraging me to push the limits of my education, and utilize everything that the school offers to make a dream and artistic vision possible. Some people have difficulty with too much freedom, which is where the program sometimes falters. However, I know that with a graduate review that they did last year, they are working to tighten the structure and course requirements, without limiting the students that come in with an ambitious vision that needs flexibility.

Overall the program has been great. I have had amazing professors, particularly in the screenwriting department, that have taught me to revert back to the fundementals of good storytelling. Production Professors as well, have really helped in pushing the production value of the short films produced in the program, and the festival that showcases both undergrad and graduate work continues to grow each year.

Also i would encourage any student in the undergrad or grad program to take classes with as many adjunct professors as possible, as they give a nice balance of current real world experiences with academics and technical practices.

I can't get too too specific since this post would go on forever, but always available to chat if anyone is thinking about applying or needs some help deciding to join the U family or what courses to take in the program.

Good Luck with you all, I have heard the University of Miami is one of better institute for studying this field.

I am a current MFA student in University of Miami Motion Picture Producing Track. I wrote a detail review of the program for those of you who concern of this program.

Please check it at:

http://www.studentfilms.com/ev...950040046#2950040046

Thanks!