Bachelor of Arts in Directing

Talent is a prerequisite, but experience is something that everyone has to acquire for themselves. The mere desire to make films is a good start, but nothing more than that. In order to be able to actually realise films, it is necessary to discover one’s own inherent, unmistakably personal potential. Doing so can entail a sometimes-thorny and frequently also frustrating battle of liberation from too-easily-found models as well as against prejudices, inertia, demoralisation, and self-delusion. We attempt to helpfully stand by our students on this journey of discovery to the roots of their own gifts so that by the end of their training, each student has the wherewithal to embody a decisive artistic and creative force in the most important areas of directing, both in feature films and in documentaries.

This programme of study begins with a basic introductory phase lasting three semesters during which students have the opportunity to explore the most varied aspects of filmmaking both in theory and in practice. Flexibility and personal responsibility, group dynamics, and self-awareness are principles that play a fundamental role in this introductory phase, during which all participants receive equal amounts of instruction in all of the Film Academy’s BA programme fields. Thereafter, in their fourth semester, students begin a process of intensive and individualised immersion in their respective main artistic subjects and also choose a module (as a second subject).

Graduates of the Directing bachelor’s degree programme typically aim to pursue careers in film and television production as: directors / assistant directors / filmmakers.

Upcoming Events

Each November, the Film Academy Vienna presents a survey of its works at the Gartenbaukino in Vienna. This event is an opportunity to see current films by students and chat both with the film teams and with members of the Film Academy Vienna teaching staff. Admission to these screenings is free, but please reserve your seats in advance. You’ll find our event schedule under Events.

Applying for this Programme of Study

1. The document “Information on Entrance Examinations” (download link above) informs you about what you need to prepare for this examination. 
2. Please set up an applicant account in mdwOnline if you don’t already have an mdwOnline account from another mdw programme of study.
3. Log into your account, click on “Entrance Exam Registration”, and then on the link “Enter new application” at the upper right. Follow the instructions that appear. If you can’t find a particular programme of study in the online registration system, it means either that the registration deadline has passed or that registration is not yet possible!
4. Important: If you are a citizen of a “third country” (from a country not belonging to the EU/EEA; exceptions: Switzerland and Liechtenstein), please inform yourself in a timely manner concerning the applicable requirements for entering and staying in Austria.
5. Once you’ve registered to take the entrance exam, you’ll receive an E-mail that informs you of your assigned exam date.
6. Take the entrance examination. Remember to bring along a photo ID.

After the Entrance Examination

1. You’ll receive the results of your entrance exam by E-mail.
2. If you have passed the entrance exam, you’ll still need to register in order to be enrolled and commence your studies at the mdw. You can do so by visiting the Studies Center within the admissions period; please bring along your passport or personal ID.
3. You can find out about the further steps you need to take in the brochure “New at the mdw?”.