General Admission Requirements

• Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Bachelor’s degree awarded from a college or university with institutional accreditation
• Test of English Proficiency (for international students)
• Submission of admission materials, including portfolio (as detailed below)

Steps to Apply

• Complete an online application ($25 application fee for domestic applicants, $75 for international applicants).
• Submit the required reel/portfolio with examples of your creative visual work and a reel/portfolio information sheet along with your application (see details below).
• Send official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended, one which must show the conferral of a bachelor’s degree from a college or university with institutional accreditation. Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution of record; we do not accept transcripts sent from applicants. Institutions can send them electronically (preferred) or mail them to the address below. DePaul alumni/undergraduate students applying for graduate admission can request a free electronic transcript from DePaul. International applicants must request a course-by-course transcript evaluation. Visit the Transcript Evaluation page for additional information.
• Optional: Submit any supplemental materials, such as letters of recommendation or professional experience as evidenced by a resume or industry certifications.

Reel/Portfolio Information
 

Applicants to this program are required to submit a reel/portfolio and information sheet. The electronic portfolio is uploaded as part of your application. Pending materials may be viewed by faculty prior to your final submission; however, no actual admission decisions will be conducted until the application period has concluded and final materials are received. A pending file at that time will be considered incomplete and ineligible for admission consideration.               

• Reel/Portfolio
  • The focus should be on the work samples.
  • Keep it simple, clearly labeled, and easy to navigate.
  • Reels should be HD quality (if possible, the online version should be on either YouTube or Vimeo). Your reel should be 5-10 minutes showing only your best work. Quality is valued over quantity. For longer works, include segments to the full version. You may include both animations and live action work. You must have had a significant role in the creation of each example.
  • Portfolios can include high-quality scans of drawings, paintings, storyboards, photographs, and designs. Limit your portfolio to the best dozen examples. You may also include detailed magnifications.
  • If generative AI tools such as Midjourney, Stable Diffusion, or DALL-E were used in the creation of work in your portfolio you must describe what programs were used, and describe your creative input, reasoning, and process. AI-assisted work will be accepted as part of your portfolio, but at least half of your artwork must be created without generative AI contributions.
• Reel/Portfolio Information Sheet
  • This document should describe each piece represented in your portfolio, including the title, medium, date, timecode in the reel, duration/dimensions, and your role in its creation.

Transition to MFA

Students who have been admitted to the MA Animation program may apply to the MFA Animation program for the next admission class in their first year of attendance only (maximum 24 credits earned for the MA program). Should a student be admitted to the MFA they may transfer any courses that apply in both programs. The MFA clock begins at the time of first enrollment in the MA Animation program and will not be extended due to a program change.               

General Admission Requirements

• Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale.
• Successful completion of Calculus 1 and 2.
• Candidates with some programming experience (academic or work) may have a stronger application for admission review.
• Bachelor’s degree awarded from a college or university with institutional accreditation.
• Test of English Proficiency for international students. For more information on the English proficiency requirement you can visit the English Proficiency Requirement page.
• International applicants should visit the international admission webpage for further details. Steps to apply
• Complete an online application ($25 application fee for domestic applicants, $75 for international applicants).
• Send official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended, one which must show the conferral of a bachelor’s degree from a college or university with institutional accreditation. Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution of record; we do not accept transcripts sent from applicants. Institutions can send them electronically (preferred) or mail them to the address below. DePaul alumni/undergraduate students applying for graduate admission can request a free electronic transcript from DePaul. International applicants must request a course-by-course transcript evaluation. Visit the Transcript Evaluation page for additional information.
• Optional: Submit any supplemental materials, such as letters of recommendation or professional experience as evidenced by a resume or industry certifications.

Transcripts and other admission materials can be sent electronically (preferred) or mailed to:

admission@cdm.depaul.edu
CDM Graduate Admission Office
1 E. Jackson Blvd., Suite 8500
Chicago, IL 60604               

All submitted application materials will become part of your application file and cannot be returned. Please retain your own copy.               

General Admission Requirements

• Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Bachelor’s degree awarded from a college or university with institutional accreditation
• Test of English Proficiency (for international students)
• Submission of admission materials (as detailed under Steps to Apply)

Steps to Apply

• Complete an online application ($25 application fee for domestic applicants, $75 for international applicants).
• Send official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended, one which must show the conferral of a bachelor’s degree from a college or university with institutional accreditation. Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution of record; we do not accept transcripts sent from applicants. Institutions can send them electronically (preferred) or mail them to the address below. DePaul alumni/undergraduate students applying for graduate admission can request a free electronic transcript from DePaul. International applicants must request a course-by-course transcript evaluation. Visit the Transcript Evaluation page for additional information.
• Optional: Submit any supplemental materials, such as letters of recommendation or professional experience as evidenced by a resume or industry certifications.

General Admission Requirements

• Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Bachelor’s degree awarded from a college or university with institutional accreditation
• Test of English Proficiency (for international students)
• Submission of admission materials (as detailed under Steps to Apply)

Steps to Apply

• Complete an online application ($25 application fee for domestic applicants, $75 for international applicants).
• Send official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended, one which must show the conferral of a bachelor’s degree from a college or university with institutional accreditation. Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution of record; we do not accept transcripts sent from applicants. Institutions can send them electronically (preferred) or mail them to the address below. DePaul alumni/undergraduate students applying for graduate admission can request a free electronic transcript from DePaul. International applicants must request a course-by-course transcript evaluation. Visit the Transcript Evaluation page for additional information.
• Optional: Submit any supplemental materials, such as letters of recommendation or professional experience as evidenced by a resume or industry certifications.

General Admission Requirements

• Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Bachelor’s degree awarded from a college or university with institutional accreditation
• Test of English Proficiency (for international students)
• Submission of admission materials (as detailed under Steps to Apply)

Steps to Apply

• Complete an online application ($25 application fee for domestic applicants, $75 for international applicants).
• Send official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended, one which must show the conferral of a bachelor’s degree from a college or university with institutional accreditation. Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution of record; we do not accept transcripts sent from applicants. Institutions can send them electronically (preferred) or mail them to the address below. DePaul alumni/undergraduate students applying for graduate admission can request a free electronic transcript from DePaul. International applicants must request a course-by-course transcript evaluation. Visit the Transcript Evaluation page for additional information.
• Optional: Submit any supplemental materials, such as letters of recommendation or professional experience as evidenced by a resume or industry certifications.

General Admission Requirements

• Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Bachelor’s degree awarded from a college or university with institutional accreditation
• Completion of Calculus I and Calculus II with at least a B- average. Exceptions may be made for individuals with extensive work experience in analytics.
• Test of English Proficiency (for international students)
• Submission of admission materials (as detailed under Steps to Apply)

Steps to Apply

• Complete an online application ($25 application fee for domestic applicants, $75 for international applicants).
• Submit a copy of your resume.
• Send official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended, one which must show the conferral of a bachelor’s degree from a college or university with institutional accreditation. Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution of record; we do not accept transcripts sent from applicants. Institutions can send them electronically (preferred) or mail them to the address below. DePaul alumni/undergraduate students applying for graduate admission can request a free electronic transcript from DePaul. International applicants must request a course-by-course transcript evaluation. Visit the Transcript Evaluation page for additional information.
• Optional: Submit any supplemental materials, such as letters of recommendation or industry certifications.

General Admission Requirements

• Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Bachelor’s degree awarded from a college or university with institutional accreditation
• Test of English Proficiency (for international students)
• Submission of admission materials (as detailed under Steps to Apply).

Steps to Apply

• Complete an online application ($25 application fee for domestic applicants, $75 for international applicants).
• Submit a resume or industry certifications indicating your professional experience.
• Submit a statement of creative intent explaining your interest in pursuing the degree and future goals, as well as attributes and skills you may bring to the program.
• Submit a minimum of 2 letters of recommendation. Your recommenders will receive a link to upload their document. A student may submit more if they wish. Recommendation letters must be sent from the recommender to us, if hard copy they must be in a sealed envelope.
• Send official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended, one which must show the conferral of a bachelor’s degree from a college or university with institutional accreditation. Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution of record; we do not accept transcripts sent from applicants. Institutions can send them electronically (preferred) or mail them to the address below. DePaul alumni/undergraduate students applying for graduate admission can request a free electronic transcript from DePaul. International applicants must request a course-by-course transcript evaluation. Visit the Transcript Evaluation page for additional information.

General Admission Requirements

• Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Bachelor’s degree awarded from a college or university with institutional accreditation
• Test of English Proficiency (for international students)
• Submission of admission materials (as detailed under Steps to Apply)

Steps to Apply

• Complete an online application ($25 application fee for domestic applicants, $75 for international applicants).
• Send official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended, one which must show the conferral of a bachelor’s degree from a college or university with institutional accreditation. Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution of record; we do not accept transcripts sent from applicants. Institutions can send them electronically (preferred) or mail them to the address below. DePaul alumni/undergraduate students applying for graduate admission can request a free electronic transcript from DePaul. International applicants must request a course-by-course transcript evaluation. Visit the Transcript Evaluation page for additional information.
• Optional: Submit any supplemental materials, such as letters of recommendation or professional experience as evidenced by a resume or industry certifications.

Please note that the desired entry quarter may be subject to change based on review of applicant’s transcripts. This is to ensure the applicant begins with the proper course sequence. Each applicant will be reviewed on an individual basis.               

General Admission Requirements

• Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Bachelor’s degree awarded from a college or university with institutional accreditation
• Test of English Proficiency (for international students)
• Submission of admission materials (as detailed under Steps to Apply)

Steps to Apply

• Complete an online application ($25 application fee for domestic applicants, $75 for international applicants).
• Send official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended, one which must show the conferral of a bachelor’s degree from a college or university with institutional accreditation. Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution of record; we do not accept transcripts sent from applicants. Institutions can send them electronically (preferred) or mail them to the address below. DePaul alumni/undergraduate students applying for graduate admission can request a free electronic transcript from DePaul. International applicants must request a course-by-course transcript evaluation. Visit the Transcript Evaluation page for additional information.
• Optional: Submit any supplemental materials, such as letters of recommendation or professional experience as evidenced by a resume or industry certifications.

General Admission Requirements

• Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Bachelor’s degree awarded from a college or university with institutional accreditation
• Test of English Proficiency (for international students)
• Submission of admission materials (as detailed under Steps to Apply)

Steps to Apply

• Complete an online application ($25 application fee for domestic applicants, $75 for international applicants).
• Send official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended, one which must show the conferral of a bachelor’s degree from a college or university with institutional accreditation. Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution of record; we do not accept transcripts sent from applicants. Institutions can send them electronically (preferred) or mail them to the address below. DePaul alumni/undergraduate students applying for graduate admission can request a free electronic transcript from DePaul. International applicants must request a course-by-course transcript evaluation. Visit the Transcript Evaluation page for additional information.
• Optional: Submit any supplemental materials, such as letters of recommendation or professional experience as evidenced by a resume or industry certifications.

General Admission Requirements

• Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Bachelor’s degree awarded from a college or university with institutional accreditation
• Test of English Proficiency (for international students)
• Submission of admission materials (as detailed under Steps to Apply)

Steps to Apply

• Complete an online application ($25 application fee for domestic applicants, $75 for international applicants).
• Send official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended, one which must show the conferral of a bachelor’s degree from a college or university with institutional accreditation. Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution of record; we do not accept transcripts sent from applicants. Institutions can send them electronically (preferred) or mail them to the address below. DePaul alumni/undergraduate students applying for graduate admission can request a free electronic transcript from DePaul. International applicants must request a course-by-course transcript evaluation. Visit the Transcript Evaluation page for additional information.
• Optional: Submit any supplemental materials, such as letters of recommendation or professional experience as evidenced by a resume or industry certifications.

MS Information Systems

General Admission Requirements

• Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Bachelor’s degree awarded from a college or university with institutional accreditation
• Test of English Proficiency (for international students)
• Submission of admission materials (as detailed under Steps to Apply)

Steps to Apply

• Complete an online application ($25 application fee for domestic applicants, $75 for international applicants).
• Send official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended, one which must show the conferral of a bachelor’s degree from a college or university with institutional accreditation. Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution of record; we do not accept transcripts sent from applicants. Institutions can send them electronically (preferred) or mail them to the address below. DePaul alumni/undergraduate students applying for graduate admission can request a free electronic transcript from DePaul. International applicants must request a course-by-course transcript evaluation. Visit the Transcript Evaluation page for additional information.
• Optional: Submit any supplemental materials, such as letters of recommendation or professional experience as evidenced by a resume or industry certifications.

General Admission Requirements

• Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Bachelor’s degree awarded from a college or university with institutional accreditation
• Test of English Proficiency (for international students)
• Submission of admission materials (as detailed under Steps to Apply)

Steps to Apply

• Complete an online application ($25 application fee for domestic applicants, $75 for international applicants).
• Send official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended, one which must show the conferral of a bachelor’s degree from a college or university with institutional accreditation. Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution of record; we do not accept transcripts sent from applicants. Institutions can send them electronically (preferred) or mail them to the address below. DePaul alumni/undergraduate students applying for graduate admission can request a free electronic transcript from DePaul. International applicants must request a course-by-course transcript evaluation. Visit the Transcript Evaluation page for additional information.
• Optional: Submit any supplemental materials, such as letters of recommendation or professional experience as evidenced by a resume or industry certifications.

This is a joint program between the College of Law and CDM, allowing students to obtain dual degrees in law and computing fields. The MS options include Computer Science, Cybersecurity, and Information Systems. Admission to this program requires completion of the required first year Law curriculum, achieving a minimum grade point average of 3.00, followed by acceptance to CDM.  Additional admission details can be found on the College of Law website.

It is highly recommended that current Law students interested in the joint degree program contact CDM Instructor Karen Heart to discuss their individual circumstances before applying to CDM. 

Priority Deadline: December 15
Applications and all supporting materials must be received by December 15 for the Priority Application Deadline and consideration for the DePaul Cinema Studios Full-Tuition Academic Scholarship for the Film and Television Directing MFA.

Applicants will be notified of their admission status in mid-February.

Final Deadline: May 15
If space remains available, applications will continue to be reviewed on a rolling basis up until May 15. Students will be notified of their admission status within one month of their completed application being received. (If space is unavailable at the time we receive your extended deadline application, we will consider it for the following academic year.)

Start Date
All students admitted into the MFA program, under either deadline, must begin their studies in the following fall quarter. (Students may not begin the program in the winter, spring, or summer quarters.)

The MFA Animation is a cohort-based program; all students begin their studies in the fall quarter.               

General Admission Requirements

• Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Bachelor’s degree awarded from a college or university with institutional accreditation
• Test of English Proficiency (for international students)
• Submission of admission materials (as detailed under Steps to Apply)

Steps to Apply

• Complete an online application ($25 application fee for domestic applicants, $75 for international applicants).
• Submit a statement of creative intent that includes your artistic goals and your reasons for applying to the MFA. Be specific, vivid, and focused (maximum of 2 pages).
• Submit a 1-page description of a possible animation project that represents the type of work you hope to produce.
• Submit a minimum of 2 letters of recommendation. Your recommenders will receive a link to upload their document. A student may submit more if they wish. Recommendation letters must be sent from the recommender to us, if hard copy they must be in a sealed envelope.
• Submit the required reel/portfolio with example of your creative visual work and a reel/portfolio information sheet (see details below) along with your application in Slate.
• Send official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended, one which must show the conferral of a bachelor’s degree from a college or university with institutional accreditation. Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution of record; we do not accept transcripts sent from applicants. Institutions can send them electronically (preferred) or mail them to the address below. DePaul alumni/undergraduate students applying for graduate admission can request a free electronic transcript from DePaul. International applicants must request a course-by-course transcript evaluation. Visit the Transcript Evaluation page for additional information.

Reel/Portfolio Information

Applicants to this program are required to submit a reel/portfolio and information sheet. The electronic portfolio is uploaded as part of your application. Pending materials may be viewed by faculty prior to your final submission; however, no actual admission decisions will be conducted until the application period has concluded and final materials are received. A pending file at that time will be considered incomplete and ineligible for admission consideration.               

• Reel/Portfolio
  • The focus should be on the work samples.
  • Keep it simple, clearly labeled, and easy to navigate.
  • Reels should be HD quality (if possible, the online version should be on either YouTube or Vimeo). Your reel should be 5-10 minutes showing only your best work. Quality is valued over quantity. For longer works, include segments to the full version. You may include both animations and live action work. You must have had a significant role in the creation of each example.
  • Portfolios can include high-quality scans of drawings, paintings, storyboards, photographs, and designs. Limit your portfolio to the best dozen examples. You may also include detailed magnifications.
  • If generative AI tools such as Midjourney, Stable Diffusion, or DALL-E were used in the creation of work in your portfolio you must describe what programs were used, and describe your creative input, reasoning, and process. AI-assisted work will be accepted as part of your portfolio, but at least half of your artwork must be created without generative AI contributions.
• Reel/Portfolio Information Sheet
  • This document should describe each piece represented in your portfolio, including the title, medium, date, time code in the reel, duration/dimensions, and your role in its creation.

Submitting Application Materials

Transcripts and other admission materials can be sent electronically (preferred) or mailed to:    

admission@cdm.depaul.edu    

Transition to MFA

Students who have been admitted to the MA Animation program may apply to the MFA Animation program for the next admission class in their first year of attendance only (maximum 24 credits earned for the MA program). Should a student be admitted to the MFA they may transfer any courses that apply in both programs. The MFA clock begins at the time of first enrollment in the MA Animation program and will not be extended due to a program change.               

The Master of Fine Arts in Creative Producing is based in Los Angeles, CA. Please note, students in the MFA in Creative Producing program are required to pay an annual fee of $645 that covers parking and events (screenings, panels, and tours).               

Priority Deadline: December 15
Applications and all supporting materials must be received by December 15 for the Priority Application Deadline and consideration for the DePaul Cinema Studios Full-Tuition Academic Scholarship for the Film and Television Directing MFA.

Applicants will be notified of their admission status in mid-February.               

Admission Requirements

• Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Bachelor's degree awarded from a college or university with institutional accreditation
• Test of English Proficiency for international students. For more information on the English proficiency requirement you can visit the English Proficiency Requirement page.
• Statement of creative intent.
• Submit a minimum of two letters of recommendation from people who can attest to your artistic abilities, commitment, work ethic and creative potential.

* International applicants should visit the international admission webpage for further details.               

Steps to Apply

• Complete an online application ($25 application fee for domestic applicants, $75 for international applicants).
• Submit official transcripts from all college and universities attended, one of which must show the conferral of a Bachelor's degree from a college or university with institutional accreditation.
  • U.S. college and university transcripts should be mailed to the address below.
  • DePaul alumni/undergraduate students applying for graduate admission must also submit a DePaul transcript. You can request a free electronic transcript at the following Student Records webpage.
• Individuals with international transcripts need to order a course-by-course evaluation by one of the three evaluation companies that DePaul University accepts. For more information about this process please visit the Transcript Evaluation webpage.
• Submit a minimum of two letters of recommendation from people who can attest to your artistic abilities, commitment, work ethic and creative potential these can be submitted in the online application or at the address below.
• Submit a statement of creative intent that will give the committee a sense of how your unique experiences, characteristics, background, values and/or view of the world have shaped who you are and what you want to say as a creative filmmaker. Be specific, vivid and focused. There is no standard format.

Submitting Application Materials

Transcripts and other admission materials can be sent electronically (preferred) or mailed to:    

admission@cdm.depaul.edu    

CDM Graduate Admission Office
1 E. Jackson Blvd., Suite 8500
Chicago, IL 60604    

All submitted application materials will become part of your application file and cannot be returned. Please retain your own copy.            

MFA Documentary

Priority Deadline: December 15
Applications and all supporting materials must be received by December 15 for the Priority Application Deadline and scholarship consideration. Applicants will be notified of their admission status in mid-February.               

Final Deadline: May 15
Applicants will be admitted as space is available. Students will be notified of their admission status one month of their completed application being received.               

The MFA Documentary is a cohort-based program; all students begin their studies in the fall quarter.               

General Admission Requirements

• Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Bachelor’s degree awarded from a college or university with institutional accreditation
• Test of English Proficiency (for international students)
• Submission of admission materials (as detailed under Steps to Apply)

Steps to Apply

• Complete an online application ($25 application fee for domestic applicants, $75 for international applicants).
• Submit a minimum of 2 letters of recommendation. Your recommenders will receive a link to upload their document. A student may submit more if they wish. Recommendation letters must be sent from the recommender to us, if hard copy they must be in a sealed envelope.
• Submit a resume indicating your professional experience.
• Submit the required portfolio along with your application (see details below).
• Send official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended, one which must show the conferral of a bachelor’s degree from a college or university with institutional accreditation. Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution of record; we do not accept transcripts sent from applicants. Institutions can send them electronically (preferred) or mail them to the address below. DePaul alumni/undergraduate students applying for graduate admission can request a free electronic transcript from DePaul. International applicants must request a course-by-course transcript evaluation. Visit the Transcript Evaluation page for additional information.

Portfolio Information

Applicants must submit a portfolio including the following with their application:               

• a statement of creative intent that will give the committee a sense of how your unique experiences, characteristics, background, values, and/or view of the world have shaped who you are, what stories you wish to tell, and why you think DePaul is the place to achieve these goals.
• a media sample of past documentary work (10 minute excerpt, no reels). Students without documentary media will be given an assignment to be submitted instead.

• Three idea pitches (social justice, historical, environmental, biography, etc.), each 1 paragraph maximum.

   

Priority Deadline: December 15
Applications and all supporting materials must be received by December 15 for the Priority Application Deadline and consideration for the DePaul Cinema Studios Full-Tuition Academic Scholarship for the Film and Television Directing MFA.

Applicants will be notified of their admission status in mid-February.           

Final Deadline: May 15
Applicants will be admitted as space is available. Students will be notified of their admission status one month after their completed application has been received.
            
The MFA in Film and Television Directing is a cohort-based program; all students begin their studies in the fall quarter.               

General Admission Requirements

• Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Bachelor’s degree awarded from a college or university with institutional accreditation
• Test of English Proficiency (for international students)
• Submission of admission materials (as detailed under Steps to Apply)

Steps to Apply

• Complete an online application ($25 application fee for domestic applicants, $75 for international applicants).
• Submit a statement of creative intent that will give the committee a sense of how your unique experiences, characteristics, background, values and/or view of the world have shaped who you are and what you want to say as a creative filmmaker. Be specific, vivid and focused. There is no standard format (maximum of 2 pages).
• Submit a minimum of 2 letters of recommendation from people who can attest to your artistic abilities, commitment, work ethic and creative potential. These letters can be submitted in the online application or at the address below. Recommendation letters must be sent from the recommender to us, if hard copy they must be in a sealed envelope.
• Submit the required portfolio (see details below) along with your online application. AI tools may not be used for written work such as scripts or personal statements. If generative tools were used in the creation of work in your portfolio you must describe what programs were used, and describe your creative input, reasoning, and process. AI-assisted work will be accepted as part of your portfolio, but at least half of your artwork must be created without generative AI contributions. Failure to disclose the use of AI technology may disqualify applicants from admissions consideration.
• Send official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended, one which must show the conferral of a bachelor’s degree from a college or university with institutional accreditation. Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution of record; we do not accept transcripts sent from applicants. Institutions can send them electronically (preferred) or mail them to the address below. DePaul alumni/undergraduate students applying for graduate admission can request a free electronic transcript from DePaul. International applicants must request a course-by-course transcript evaluation. Visit the Transcript Evaluation page for additional information.

Portfolio Information

For both the Visual and Writing Samples, do NOT submit any commercial work, work made for a client, advertisements, or unfinished work. No trailers. Preferably no AI, but if AI was an integral part of your creative process, you must disclose the use of any AI technology. Please explain in the “Edit Details” description box. Non English language videos must be subtitled in English. 

VISUAL SAMPLE. Submit ONE of the following:

1.   One video totaling no more than 10 minutes. This can be an excerpt from a longer film, an entire short film, or excerpts from a few different films.

Make sure to click on “Edit Details” and add the following information for your upload. If more than one excerpt or video is included in your 10 minutes, write the titles, years, etc. with slashes in between (Ex: Titanic / Ghostbusters, 2025 / 2023)

• Title
• Year
• Size (Excerpt lengths and/or total running times)
• Medium (film, video, documentary, fiction, etc.)
• Description: In a few sentences, explain why you chose these excerpts and how they represent you as an artist. Then, list the following for each excerpt:
  • Title
  • Synopsis or description
  • List of your roles on the project

2.   A .pdf of 10 images (photography or documentation of other forms of still or 3D art). Please include the title, year, size, medium and a brief description of each image somewhere within the document.

Make sure to click on “Edit Details” and add the following information for your upload:

• Title: Name the Document: “Ex: Photography Portfolio”
• Year: SKIP (should be included for each image in the .pdf)
• Size: SKIP (should be included for each image in the .pdf)
• Medium: SKIP (should be included for each image in the .pdf)
• Description: In a few sentences, briefly explain why you chose these images or projects and how they represent you as an artist.

WRITING SAMPLE. Upload ONE of the following:

1.   A short film script or excerpt for a short film or play (10 page max)
2.   An excerpt of a feature film script or full-length play (10 page max)
3.   An outline or treatment for a film (no more than 2 pages)
4.   Any other film-related poetic or researched writing (no more than 5 pages)

Make sure to click on “Edit Details” and add the following information for your writing sample upload:

• Title
• Year
• Size: (Total number of pages if longer than the 10 page max)
• Medium: (short film script, treatment, feature screenplay, etc.)
• Description:  Briefly explain how this piece of writing fits into the work you’ve done and what you want to do in grad school (Questions that could be answered here: Is this text you’ve already filmed? Was it an assignment? Is it a work in progress you hope to film in grad school? Is it an outline for improvisation? etc.)

Submitting Application Materials

Transcripts and other admission materials can be sent electronically (preferred) or mailed to:               

admission@cdm.depaul.edu               

CDM Graduate Admission Office
1 E. Jackson Blvd., Suite 8500
Chicago, IL 60604               

All submitted applications materials (including reel and/or portfolio) will become part of your application file and cannot be returned. Please retain your own copy.               

Priority Deadline: December 15
Applications and all supporting materials must be received by December 15 for the Priority Application Deadline and scholarship consideration. Applicants will be notified of their admission status in mid-February.               

Final Deadline: May 15
Applicants will be admitted as space is available. Students will be notified of their admission status one month of their completed application being received.               

The MFA Game Design is a cohort-based program; all students begin their studies in the fall quarter.               

General Admission Requirements

• Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Bachelor’s degree awarded from a college or university with institutional accreditation
• Test of English Proficiency (for international students)
• Submission of admission materials (as detailed under Steps to Apply)

Steps to Apply

• Complete an online application ($25 application fee for domestic applicants, $75 for international applicants).
• Submit a statement of creative intent that includes your artistic goals and reasons for applying to the MFA. Be specific, vivid, and focused. Statements should address at least one of the following (maximum of 2 pages):
  • Describe how a game designer, game studio, or particular game has inspired you to want to create games - where is your creative interest in alignment or different from that?
  • What motivates you in pursuing an MFA in Game Design, which is a terminal degree and emphasizes exploring games as a creative / artistic medium?
  • Describe a game concept that you’d like to work on - what message(s), emotion(s), action/skill(s) and/or context are essential to the play experience?
  • What potential do you see for the future of games and how does your design practice work towards this vision?
• Submit a minimum of 2 letters of recommendation. Your recommenders will receive a link to upload their document. A student may submit more if they wish. Recommendation letters must be sent from the recommender to us, if hard copy they must be in a sealed envelope.
• Submit a digital portfolio that may include a variety of media and writing samples (see examples below).
• Submit a resume indicating your professional experience.
• Send official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended, one which must show the conferral of a bachelor’s degree from a college or university with institutional accreditation. Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution of record; we do not accept transcripts sent from applicants. Institutions can send them electronically (preferred) or mail them to the address below. DePaul alumni/undergraduate students applying for graduate admission can request a free electronic transcript from DePaul. International applicants must request a course-by-course transcript evaluation. Visit the Transcript Evaluation page for additional information.

Portfolio Information

Below are a few examples of items you may include in your portfolio.
Please include a short statement of intent for each item. The portfolio should be uploaded with your application.               

• Series of digital prototypes or games demonstrating your breadth and depth of work in the field. Include download links, installation, and gameplay instructions.
• Board game or physical game. Include detailed documentation including video and photographs of gameplay as well as rules.
• Game design document. This communicates the elements of a game project you’ve worked on at both a high level overview and technical detail.
• Performance or event. Include documentation of project including video, photographs, and script.
• Writing samples such as a scholarly article, essay, or creative writing. If you are primarily submitting written portfolio items, include a critical analysis of any game and an original game design document, each between 500-750 words.
• Creative practice in a professional field (animation, video, film, applications, graphic design, etc.).

Priority Deadline: December 15
Applications and all supporting materials must be received by December 15 for the Priority Application Deadline and consideration for the DePaul Cinema Studios Full-Tuition Academic Scholarship for the Film and Television Directing MFA.

Applicants will be notified of their admission status in mid-February.               

Final Deadline: May 15 International & Domestic Applicants
Applicants will be admitted as space is available.               

General Admission Requirements

• Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Bachelor’s degree awarded from a college or university with institutional accreditation
• Test of English Proficiency (for international students)
• Submission of admission materials (as detailed under Steps to Apply)

Steps to Apply

• Complete an online application ($25 application fee for domestic applicants, $75 for international applicants).
• Submit a minimum of 2 letters of recommendation. Your recommenders will receive a link to upload their document. A student may submit more if they wish. Recommendation letters must be sent from the recommender to us, if hard copy they must be in a sealed envelope.
• Submit a portfolio specific to the concentration for which you are applying (see details below).
• Send official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended, one which must show the conferral of a bachelor’s degree from a college or university with institutional accreditation. Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution of record; we do not accept transcripts sent from applicants. Institutions can send them electronically (preferred) or mail them to the address below. DePaul alumni/undergraduate students applying for graduate admission can request a free electronic transcript from DePaul. International applicants must request a course-by-course transcript evaluation. Visit the Transcript Evaluation page for additional information.

Portfolio Information

If generative AI tools such as ChatGPT or GPT-4 were used in the creation of work in your portfolio, you must cite which AI tools you employed, what prompts you used, and how it helped you engage in the writing process. While AI-assisted work may be accepted as part of the development of the work in your portfolio (including ideation, character development, world-building, or outlining), the entirety of your screenwriting samples must be authored by you. Therefore, AI generated script samples will disqualify candidates from admission.               

If you are applying to the Standard concentration, submit with your application:               

• a statement of creative intent that gives the committee a sense of how your unique experiences, characteristics, background, values, and/or view of the world have shaped who you are and what you want to say as a creative filmmaker. Be specific, vivid, and focused.
• a writing sample, which can be any combination of plays, screenplays, poetry, prose, or other creative writings (maximum of 30 pages)
• a sample scene, using the scenario of “two strangers trapped in a car together.” This sample scene should be written in standard screenplay format (maximum of 3 pages).

If you are applying to the Comedy concentration, submit with your application:               

• a statement of creative intent that gives the committee a sense your comedic voice and sense of what you strive to explore in storytelling. You can pull from your unique experiences, background, values, or worldview to explain how these things have shaped who you are and what you want to say as a comedic storyteller (maximum of 4 pages).
• a writing sample, which can be any combination of plays, screenplays, poetry, prose, or other creative writings (maximum of 30 pages)

• a sample scene, using the scenario of “two strangers trapped in a car together.” This sample scene should be written in standard screenplay format (maximum of 3 pages).

   

The Ph.D. program in Computer and Information Sciences (CIS) offers an opportunity for exceptional students to pursue substantial research in the computer sciences and related areas.               

CIS admission requirements and steps to apply           

The Ph.D. in Human Centered Design (HCD) prepares students to become interdisciplinary scholars who can apply a variety of methodological approaches at the intersection of technology, human behavior, and design.               

HCD admission requirements and steps to apply