The film industry is one of the most popular and lucrative industries in the world. A degree from a top film school can help you launch a successful career in this exciting field.
There are many great film schools in the United States, but the 20 schools on this list stand out from the rest. These schools have top-notch facilities, experienced faculty, and a proven track record of producing successful alumni.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in film, one of these schools should be your first choice:
U.S. Film Schools — Best 20
- American Film Institute
- University of Southern California
- UCLA
- NYU
- Columbia University
- California Institute of the Arts
- Stanford University
- Northwestern University
- Chapman University
- Florida State University
- Temple University
- Boston University
- Loyola Marymount University
- University of Pennsylvania
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of Texas at Austin
- University of Colorado at Boulder
- Yale University
- Syracuse University
- Duke University
1. American Film Institute
The American Film Institute (AFI) is a world-renowned educational institution dedicated to the art of film. Founded in 1969, AFI offers a variety of programs aimed at preserving the history of film, training the next generation of filmmakers, and celebrating the art form.
AFI’s Conservatory is one of the top film schools in the country, offering a two-year MFA program. The Conservatory focuses on hands-on training in all aspects of filmmaking, from directing and editing to cinematography and production design. AFI also offers a variety of other programs, including a BFA in Film Production, a certificate program in Film Studies, and a summer program for high school students.
Tuition Fee
American Film Institute Conservatory’s (2021-2022) Graduate Tuition is around $55402 for 2021-2022
Acceptance Rate
Among the best film schools in the world, the AFI Conservatory has an acceptance rate of less than 1%.
Why American Film Institute?
The American Film Institute (AFI) is the best place to learn about film. AFI offers a variety of programs that allow students to learn about the history of film, the art of filmmaking, and the business of the film industry. AFI also has a world-renowned film archive, which contains more than 1 million items, including films, television shows, and still photographs.
2. University of Southern California (USC)
The USC School of Cinematic Arts is considered one of the top film schools in the United States. It offers a Bachelor of Arts in Film and Television. The program is four years long and provides students with a comprehensive education in the cinematic arts. The curriculum covers everything from directing and producing to screenwriting and cinematography. USC also has a strong alumni network, which can help students get their foot in the door after graduation.
USC is located in Los Angeles, California, which is considered the entertainment capital of the world. This means that USC students have access to some of the best resources in the industry. They can intern with top production companies, work on student films, and network with professionals. USC also has a number of high-profile alumni, including George Lucas, J.J. Abrams, and Jon Favreau.
Tuition Fee
The cost of tuition at USC is around $61,503 per year for full-time students. This does not include room and board, which is an additional $16,278 per year. Financial aid is available for students who qualify.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate of USC stands at a staggering 16.1%.
Why University of Southern California?
With an emphasis on hands-on experience and industry connections, USC’s proximity to Hollywood means that students have access to some of the biggest names in the business, and the school’s alumni include some of the most successful filmmakers in history. USC’s commitment to excellence in film education makes it the perfect place to learn and hone your craft.
3. UCLA
The University of California, Los Angeles is widely considered one of the top film schools in the United States. Located in Los Angeles, the school offers students a unique opportunity to study film in one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the world.
The UCLA School of Theater, Film, and Television offers a comprehensive education in the field of film. The school offers a Bachelor of Arts in Film and Television and a Master of Fine Arts in Film and Television. The school also offers a number of specialized programs, such as the M.F.A. in Filmmaking, the M.F.A. in Production and Directing for Television, and the M.F.A. in Animation and Digital Arts.
UCLA also has a number of unique research facilities, including the UCLA Film and Television Archive, which is one of the largest film and television archives in the world. The archive contains over 300,000 film and television titles, making it an invaluable resource for students and scholars alike.
Tuition Fee
The tuition fee of UCLA is around $13,258 for in-state students and $43,012 for out-of-state students.
Acceptance Rate
In 2021, UCLA had an acceptance rate of 14.3 percent. Accordingly, only 14 out of 100 applicants are accepted.
Why UCLA?
There are many reasons why UCLA is considered one of the best places to learn about and train in film. For one, the school has a long and rich history in the industry – it was founded in 1947, and since then, has been home to many influential and groundbreaking filmmakers.
Also, UCLA offers a comprehensive education in all aspects of filmmaking, from directing and producing, to cinematography and editing. Students have the opportunity to learn from and work with some of the most respected names in the business, and to gain hands-on experience through the school’s state-of-the-art facilities.
4. NYU Tisch School
The NYU Tisch School of the Arts is one of the most prestigious film schools in the United States. Located in New York City, the school offers a wide range of programs and facilities for aspiring filmmakers. The school has produced many successful alumni, including directors Martin Scorsese and Spike Lee.
The NYU Tisch School of the Arts offers a wide range of programs for aspiring filmmakers. These include the Undergraduate Film & Television program, the Graduate Film program, and the Maurice Kanbar Institute of Film & Television. The school also has a number of facilities, including the LeFevre Soundstage and the Wasserman Soundstage, which are available for students to use.
Tuition Fee
The tuition fee for NYU Tisch School is around $49,962 USD per year.
Acceptance Rate
Film programs currently have an acceptance rate of 19%, 35%, and 33%.
Why NYU?
The school’s faculty is comprised of some of the most accomplished filmmakers in the industry. Many of the faculty members have won Academy Awards and have been nominated for multiple Oscars. In addition, the school’s faculty members are also highly respected in the field, and many of them have served as directors, writers, and producers on some of the most popular films of all time.
5. Columbia University
Columbia University is one of the most prestigious universities in the United States, and its School of the Arts is no exception. Located in New York City, the school offers its students a wealth of opportunities to learn from and work with some of the most talented artists in the world.
The School of the Arts offers a number of programs in various disciplines, including film. The film program at Columbia is one of the most respected in the country, and it has produced a number of successful alumni, including directors and screenwriters.
If you’re looking for a top-notch film school, Columbia University should definitely be on your list.
Tuition Fee
The tuition fee for Columbia University is around $63,530 USD
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate stands at 6.7% based on their admissions from the last few years.
Why Columbia University?
Columbia University is considered one of the best film schools in the world. Located in New York City, the school offers students access to some of the best resources for learning about film and filmmaking. The faculty at Columbia University is made up of experienced professionals who are passionate about teaching the art of film. In addition, the school offers students the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art equipment and facilities.
6. California Institute of the Arts (CalArts)
The California Institute of the Arts is widely regarded as one of the top film schools in the United States. The school offers a comprehensive education in film, video, and new media, with an emphasis on the creative, hands-on aspects of filmmaking.
CalArts has a long history of producing successful filmmakers, including Tim Burton, John Lasseter, and Matt Groening. The school has also been home to many groundbreaking films and videos, including the first-ever computer-animated feature film, Toy Story.
CalArtsis located in Valencia, California, about 30 miles north of Los Angeles.
Tuition Fee
CalArts tuition is 53,466 USD per year for California residents and $69,752 per year for out-of-state students
Acceptance Rate
Based on recent admissions, their acceptance rate stands at 27.4%.
Why California Institute of the Arts?
1. CalArts has a long and rich history in film. It was founded in 1961 by Walt Disney and has since produced a number of renowned filmmakers, including Tim Burton, Jon Favreau, and Brad Bird. It has a strong focus on the technical aspects of filmmaking. Students receive a well-rounded education that covers everything from cinematography and editing to sound design and production.
CalArts is home to some of the best facilities in the world. The school’s state-of-the-art equipment and studios give students the opportunity to learn on the same level as professionals.
7. Stanford University
Founded in 1891, Stanford University is located in Stanford, California, about 30 miles from San Francisco. The university is known for its academic strength, wealth, and proximity to Silicon Valley.
Stanford offers a wide variety of arts programs, including film and media studies. The film and media studies program offers courses in film history, theory, and criticism, as well as production and screenwriting. Students in the program have the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, and to collaborate with other artists on campus.
The program is small, with only about 30 students enrolled in it. However, it is highly competitive, and admission is based on a portfolio review and an interview.
Stanford University is one of the top film schools in the United States.
Tuition Fee
The tuition fee for Stanford University’s Arts program is around $57,693 per year.
Acceptance Rate
Based on recent admissions, their acceptance rate stands at 5.2%
Why Stanford University?
There are many reasons why Stanford University is a great place to learn about film. For one, the faculty is world-renowned, and the facilities are top-notch. Additionally, Stanford offers a wide variety of film-related courses, both at the undergraduate and graduate level, so students can tailor their education to their specific interests.
And finally, the location of Stanford – in the heart of Silicon Valley – means that there are many opportunities for students to gain real-world experience in the film industry.
8. Northwestern University
Northwestern University is one of the top 20 film school in the United States. It is located in Evanston, Illinois and offers a Bachelor of Arts in Film. The school has a long-standing reputation for excellence in the arts, and its film program is no exception. Students in the program can expect to receive a well-rounded education in filmmaking, from screenwriting and directing to cinematography and editing.
The school also has a strong focus on independent and experimental filmmaking, giving students the opportunity to explore new and innovative ways of telling stories on screen. With a faculty of experienced and successful professionals, Northwestern University is a great choice for those looking to pursue a career in filmmaking.
Tuition Fee
The tuition fee of Northwestern University for Arts undergraduate program is around $60,768 USD
Acceptance Rate
Based on recent admissions, their acceptance rate stands at 9.3%
Why Northwestern University?
Northwestern University is a great place to learn about film because of the excellent faculty, facilities, and resources. The faculty is comprised of knowledgeable and experienced professionals who are passionate about film.
They offer a variety of courses that cover all aspects of filmmaking, from history and theory to production and post-production. The facilities are top-notch, with state-of-the-art equipment and technology. And the resources are vast, including an extensive library of films and a well-connected network of alumni and industry professionals.
9. Chapman University
Chapman University is a private university in Orange, California. It was founded in 1861 by Chapman University System. The university is affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).
Chapman University offers more than 110 undergraduate and graduate programs in its nine schools and colleges. The university is known for its programs in business, film and television, law, and liberal arts.
Chapman University’s film school is one of the top 20 film schools in the United States, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The school offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in film and television.
The school’s facilities include the Dodge College of Film and Media Arts, which is equipped with state-of-the-art production equipment and post-production facilities, and the Marion Knott Studios, a soundstage complex where students can produce and shoot their own films.
Tuition Fee
Chapman University’s tuition for their Arts programs is around $58,634 USD per year.
Acceptance Rate
Based on recent admissions, their acceptance rate stands at 58.3%
Why Chapman University?
Dodge College’s facilities are state-of-the-art, and its faculty is comprised of working professionals who are passionate about teaching the next generation of filmmakers. Chapman University’s location in Orange, California, also gives students the opportunity to intern and network with some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry.
10. Florida State University
Florida State University is a public university located in Tallahassee, Florida. The university offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film program through its School of Visual Arts and Music.
The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film program at Florida State University is a four-year program that prepares students for careers in the film industry. The program offers courses in film history, film theory, and filmmaking. Students in the program have the opportunity to produce their own films.
Florida State University’s School of Visual Arts and Music is located in the heart of Tallahassee, the state capital of Florida. Tallahassee is home to a number of film and television production companies, as well as the Tallahassee Film Festival.
Tuition Fee
The In-state tuition for FSU is 5,656 USD while out-of-state tuition 18,786 USD
Acceptance Rate
Based on recent admissions, their acceptance rate stands at 32.5%
Why Florida State University?
Florida State University is good for film learning and training because of its strong film program. The program has a good reputation and is known for its rigorous training. It is also located in a state with a strong film industry, which provides students with opportunities to intern and work on film projects.
11. Temple University
Temple University’s School of Media and Communication is one of the top 20 film schools in the United States, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The school offers a Bachelor of Arts in Film and Media Arts, as well as a Master of Fine Arts in Film and Media Arts. The school’s faculty includes award-winning filmmakers and industry professionals, who provide students with a well-rounded education in the field of film and media arts.
The school’s curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including directing, cinematography, screenwriting, producing, and editing. In addition, students have the opportunity to study film history and theory, as well as participate in hands-on projects. The school also offers a number of extracurricular activities, such as film festivals and workshops, which provide students with additional opportunities to learn and network.
Tuition Fee
The tuition fee for Temple University is around 17,378 USD for in-state while out-of-state tuition fee is around 30,602 USD.
Acceptance Rate
Based on recent admissions, their acceptance rate stands at 71.4%
Why Temple University?
Temple University is a great place to learn about film. The school offers a variety of courses that cover different aspects of filmmaking, from cinematography to screenwriting. The faculty is made up of experienced professionals who are passionate about teaching their craft.
The school also has a strong commitment to diversity, which is reflected in its student body and faculty. This makes Temple University a great place to learn about film from a variety of perspectives.
12. Boston University
Boston University is a top-ranked school for film and television. Located in Boston, Massachusetts, the school offers students a wealth of opportunities to learn from and work with industry professionals. The faculty is made up of working professionals, and the curriculum is designed to give students the skills they need to succeed in the industry. The school has a strong focus on independent filmmaking, and students have the opportunity to work on projects with fellow students from around the world.
In addition to its academic programs, Boston University also offers a number of extracurricular activities and organizations that are designed to help students make the most of their time at the school. The Film and Television Club is a great way for students to meet other film and television enthusiasts, and the school also offers a number of internships and job opportunities.
Tuition Fee
The tuition fee for Boston University is around 59,816 USD per year..
Acceptance Rate
Based on recent admissions, their acceptance rate stands at 20.1%
Why Boston University?
Boston University offers an excellent education for film students. The professors are experienced and knowledgeable, and the facilities are top-notch. Boston University also has a great reputation in the film industry, so students who graduate from BU have a good chance of getting hired by major film studios and production companies.
13. Loyola Marymount University
Loyola Marymount University’s School of Film and Television is one of the top 20 film schools in the United States, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The school offers a Bachelor of Arts in Film and Television Studies, as well as a minor in film studies. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including film history, theory, and criticism; screenwriting; directing; cinematography; and production design.
The school also offers a Master of Fine Arts in Film and Television Production, as well as a PhD in Film and Television Studies. LMU’s School of Film and Television is located in Los Angeles, California, which is one of the most popular destinations for aspiring filmmakers.
Tuition Fee
Loyola Marymount University’s tuition for their Arts major is 53,526 USD per year.
Acceptance Rate
Based on recent admissions, their acceptance rate stands at 50.1%
Why Loyola Marymount University?
Loyola Marymount University is a top film school, and its location in Los Angeles means that students have access to some of the best resources in the entertainment industry. The faculty is experienced and successful, and the curriculum is designed to give students a well-rounded education in all aspects of filmmaking.
The school has a strong commitment to diversity, and its student body is one of the most diverse in the country. Additionally, the school’s location means that students have access to internships and job opportunities in the film industry.
14. University of Pennsylvania
University of Pennsylvania offers a Bachelor of Arts in Film and Television and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film and Media Arts. The curriculum includes courses in directing, producing, screenwriting, cinematography, and editing. The University of Pennsylvania also offers a minor in film and television.
The University of Pennsylvania’s School of Arts and Sciences is one of the oldest and most prestigious schools in the country. The school offers a rigorous education in the liberal arts and sciences. Students at the University of Pennsylvania can expect to receive a well-rounded education that will prepare them for success in any field.
Tuition Fee
The University of Pennsylvania charges tuition on a per-credit basis. For undergraduate students, the cost is $1,862 per credit. For graduate students, the cost is $2,766 per credit.
Acceptance Rate
Based on recent admissions, their acceptance rate stands at 9%
Why University of Pennsylvania?
The University of Pennsylvania is one of the premier institutions for film learning and training. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers all aspects of filmmaking, from directing and producing to cinematography and screenwriting.
In addition, the faculty is comprised of working professionals who are leaders in their respective fields, providing students with the opportunity to learn from the best in the business. The University of Pennsylvania also has state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, giving students the chance to work with the latest technology and tools used in the industry.
15. University of California, Berkeley
The University of California, Berkeley is a world-renowned public research university located in Berkeley, California. As a leading institution of higher learning, Berkeley is dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, and public service.
Berkeley’s film and media studies program is one of the most respected and well-regarded in the country. The faculty is comprised of award-winning filmmakers, scholars, and critics who are leaders in their field. Berkeley graduates have gone on to have successful careers in film, television, and new media.
Berkeley’s location in the Bay Area puts it at the center of the region’s vibrant film and media industry. Students have access to internships and networking opportunities with some of the biggest names in the business.
Tuition Fee
The tuition fee for in-state students is around 14,226 USD while out-of-state students have to pay 43,980 USD for admission in their reputed Arts department.
Acceptance Rate
Based on recent admissions, their acceptance rate stands at 17.5%
Why University of California, Berkeley?
The University of California, Berkeley is considered one of the best schools for film learning and training. Located in the San Francisco Bay Area, the school offers students a wealth of opportunities to learn about film.
The school has a strong film department that offers a variety of courses on film history, theory, and criticism. In addition, the school offers students the opportunity to take part in a number of film festivals and events. The school also has a number of facilities, including a film archive and a library, that are available to students.
16. University of Texas at Austin
The school offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film and Media Arts, as well as a minor in film.
The University of Texas at Austin’s film program is consistently ranked among the best in the country. In 2017, the school was ranked #2 by The Hollywood Reporter.
The University of Texas at Austin’s film program focuses on both the creative and technical aspects of filmmaking. The curriculum includes courses in screenwriting, directing, cinematography, and editing.
The University of Texas at Austin has a long history of producing successful filmmakers. alumni include Robert Rodriguez, Richard Linklater, and Wes Anderson.
Tuition Fee
The University of Texas at Austin charges tuition for each semester or summer session. Tuition rates are set each spring by The University of Texas System Board of Regents.
In-state undergraduate students taking 15 credit hours will pay $5,496 in tuition and fees for the 2019-2020 academic year. Out-of-state undergraduate students taking 15 credit hours will pay $17,496 in tuition and fees for the 2019-2020 academic year.
Acceptance Rate
Based on recent admissions, their acceptance rate stands at 32%
Why University of Texas at Austin?
The University of Texas at Austin is an excellent choice for students interested in pursuing a career in film. The university offers a comprehensive film program that provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the industry.
The program offers courses in filmmaking, screenwriting, cinematography, directing, and producing. In addition, the university offers a number of extracurricular activities and clubs related to film. These activities provide students with opportunities to network with professionals in the industry and to learn more about the filmmaking process
17. University of Colorado at Boulder
The University of Colorado at Boulder is a great choice for students interested in pursuing a degree in film. The school has a strong reputation for its arts programs, and its film school is no different. Located in Boulder, Colorado, the University of Colorado at Boulder offers students a great education in film.
The school offers a variety of courses for students to take, and it has a strong reputation for its faculty. The University of Colorado at Boulder also has a great deal of experience in producing films, and its facilities are top-notch.
If you’re looking for a great film school, the University of Colorado at Boulder should definitely be on your list.
Tuition Fee
The in-state tuition fee is around 12,496 USD while the out-of-state tuition fee is somewhere near 38,314 USD
Acceptance Rate
The University of Colorado has one of the highest acceptance rates at 84.2%
Why University of Colorado at Boulder?
The University of Colorado at Boulder is one of the top schools in the nation for film. The university has a top-notch film program that offers a variety of courses for students to take. The program is also very affordable, which makes it a great choice for students who are looking to get a quality education without breaking the bank.
18. Yale School of Art
It is located in New Haven, Connecticut. Yale University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Film Studies. The Film Studies program at Yale University offers students the opportunity to study film history, theory, and criticism. Students in the program also have the opportunity to take courses in other departments, such as English, History, and Art.
Yale University also offers a Master of Fine Arts in Film. The M.F.A. program is a two-year program that is designed for students who want to pursue a career in filmmaking. Students in the program take courses in filmmaking, screenwriting, and film history. They also have the opportunity to work on their own projects.
Tuition Fee
The Yale School of Art currently charges $57,500 for tuition and fees for the 2020–2021 academic year. This includes a $500 increase in tuition from the previous year. The total cost of attendance, which includes room and board, is $75,950.
Acceptance Rate
Approximately 5-6% of applicants are ultimately accepted after being invited for an interview.
Why Yale University?
There are many reasons why Yale University is good for film learning and training. For one, Yale has a long and rich history in film. The university has produced many famous filmmakers, including Oliver Stone and Paul Schrader.
Additionally, Yale has a top-notch film program that offers students the opportunity to learn from some of the best filmmakers in the world. Finally, the university is located in New Haven, Connecticut, which is home to many film festivals and other events that can help students learn more about the film industry.
19. Syracuse University
Syracuse University’s film and video production program is one of the oldest and most respected programs in the country. The program has produced many successful alumni, including Academy Award-winning director Oliver Stone and cinematographer Haskell Wexler.
The film and video production program at Syracuse is a four-year program that leads to a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. The program is designed to give students a comprehensive education in all aspects of filmmaking, from writing and directing to cinematography and editing.
Syracuse University’s Master of Fine Arts in Film program is a two-year program that focuses on the filmmaking process from auteur theory to practical production. The program is designed to give students a thorough understanding of film history, theory, and criticism, as well as a practical education in filmmaking.
Tuition Fee
The tuition fee at Syracuse University is $1,484 per credit for undergraduate students. For graduate students, the tuition fee is around $1,764 per credit.
Acceptance Rate
The university has an acceptance rate of 68.7% based on previous records.
Why Syracuse University?
The Syracuse University School of Art and its world-renowned film program offer students an immersive, collaborative education in the art of filmmaking. Located in the heart of New York State’s Finger Lakes region—a natural setting for filmmaking—the school provides students with access to world-class facilities, industry-standard equipment, and experienced faculty.
The school’s curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, so students have ample opportunity to put their skills to the test and gain real-world experience. The close-knit community of filmmakers at Syracuse provides a supportive environment for collaboration and creativity, and graduates of the program have gone on to find success in all facets of the film industry.
20. Duke University
Duke University’s Film Studies Program is consistently ranked as one of the top programs in the United States. Duke offers a wide range of classes in film history, theory, and criticism, as well as production classes in both digital and analog formats. Duke also offers a minor in film studies.
The Duke University Film Studies Program is an interdisciplinary program that offers courses in film history, theory, and criticism, as well as production classes in both digital and analog formats. Duke also offers a minor in film studies.
Tuition Fee
Duke University’s tuition and fees vary depending on the program and school the student is enrolled in. For example, tuition for Duke’s Fuqua School of Business is $71,400 for the 2020-2021 academic year, while tuition for Duke’s School of Law is $64,697. For Arts, it is around $30,217
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate is nearly 8% depending on previous admissions’ data.
Why Duke University?
Duke University is one of the top research universities in the world. It is also one of the most selective universities, with an acceptance rate of only 9%.
Duke offers a world-class education, with top-ranked programs in a wide range of fields. The university has a strong commitment to research, and its faculty are world-renowned scholars.
The institute also has a strong commitment to social justice and to serving the community. The university has a number of programs that help students get involved in the community and make a difference in the world.
Bottom Line
These twenty film schools in the United States offer students an array of opportunities to learn the craft of filmmaking. From world-renowned faculty to state-of-the-art facilities, these institutions provide the perfect environment for aspiring filmmakers to hone their skills. Here are just a few of the reasons why these schools are considered the best in the country:
Location: Many of the top film schools are located in major cities with strong ties to the entertainment industry. This gives students the chance to network with professionals and learns about the business firsthand.
Reputation: The top film schools have a long history of producing successful alumni. This gives current students the chance to learn from the best and develop their own skills.
Facilities: The top film schools have top-notch facilities that provide students with the latest technology and equipment. This gives students the chance to work with industry-standard tools and learn the latest techniques. If you’re serious about a career in filmmaking, then one of these top 20 film schools is the perfect place to start your journey.
