Learn How to Make a Documentary Film at NYFA
During NYFA’s 1-Year Documentary Filmmaking Program, available at our NYFA New York campus, students receive a rigorous, hands-on education in non-fiction filmmaking.
Learning under the guidance of experienced professionals, students develop the production, research, story development, interviewing, writing, cinematography, sound recording, and editing skills that support a well-rounded education in documentary film production.
Students create a substantial amount of their own short films throughout the program, such as the Observational Film, Character Film, and Social Issue Film. As this is an intensive program, it is the best fit for individuals looking to create their own non-fiction films or students considering furthering their education in documentary filmmaking.
Faculty Highlights
1-Year Documentary Filmmaking Program
| Location | Program Start Date and End Date | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| New York City | August, 2026 – August, 2027 | Fall 2026 Semester The program semesters tuition and duration is listed below. In addition to tuition please review the programs associated feesTuition: $19,500 Per Semester Departmental Program Fee:$1,000 Per Semester Program Duration: 3 Semesters |
*Additional Fees:
Spring 2026 – Summer 2027
| Technology Fee: | $80 Per Semester |
| Wellness Services & Programming Fee: | $145 Per Semester |
| Activity Fee: | $125 per semester |
| Orientation Fee: (Spring 2026: January 5th – January 9th) |
Domestic Students: $150 International Students: $200 |
| Graduation Fee: | $100 |
| International Student Fee: | $200 for the first semester, $120 each subsequent semester |
Curriculum
The curriculum of the 1-Year Documentary Filmmaking Program includes:
- Intensive coursework and workshops in topics such as Documentary Craft, Camera, Lighting and Sound, Producing, Editing, and Writing
- Instruction and critique from faculty with extensive experience in documentary filmmaking and non-fiction storytelling
- An opportunity to work and study in an environment that mirrors a professional setting
- Access to an equipment library where students may borrow professional-grade cameras, lighting kits, and more
- Guest lectures with influential filmmakers, photographers, cinematographers, directors, and more
To learn more, check out NYFA’s Course Catalogs or request more information.
This documentary filmmaking program in New York City is a conservatory-style, full-time, three semester program. The program takes place over the course of one academic year.
In this program, each student makes six documentary projects of increasing difficulty. With each new film project, students get an opportunity to refine and improve the quality of their work, gradually developing their unique creative voice. For a full list of projects the one-year students complete, see our projects page.
Students can choose to enroll in NYFA’s 1-Year Documentary Filmmaking Program in New York City.
Please note: Equipment, curriculum, and projects are subject to change and may vary depending on location. Students should consult the most recently published campus catalog for the most up-to-date curriculum.