Obtaining a bachelor’s degree in filmmaking frequently leads to much greater success and gives amazing professional advantages through international exposure and practical learning experience. Film as a degree program goes by several names – cinematic arts, film production, digital media production, motion picture arts production, yet all have the same concept. The film industry has a lot of opportunities for individuals but requires preparation, practice, and dedication. A degree in this profession will equip students for careers as film/movie directors, editors, producers, cinematographers, broadcast presenters, advertising art directors, and other vital roles in producing films and shows.
Studying at a university with an excellent background in filmmaking will allow you to refine your skills and gain knowledge from professional experts with years of significant experience. This will provide you with a blend of academic and technical abilities required for positions in the field of filmmaking. We list all the best film schools in the world where you can pursue this program and provide excellent training for aspiring filmmakers.
Best Film Schools in the World
1. University of Southern California (USC)
- Film Program
- Tuition Fee Pages
- Scholarships Pages
- Degrees offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD
The University of Southern California (USC) is the most respected and best film school in the world. USC established a completely interdisciplinary learning opportunity as the world’s first media school to teach most of the areas in the Cinematic Arts. Its mission is to create and express the creative, educational, and entrepreneurial standards and procedures of film, television, and interactive media to equip students to become pioneers in the industry.
Students are introduced to the industry’s most recent technology innovations, narrative approaches, and networking opportunities to engage with prominent professionals. They offer programs for undergraduates and graduate students such as Fine Arts in Writing for Screen and Television, Cinema and Media, Animation, and Digital Arts.
2. American Film Institute (AFI)
- Film Program
- Degrees offered: Master’s
The American Film Institute (AFI) is among the world’s most recognized film schools. AFI assured students to acquire the process of producing films by mastering the technology and discipline behind the narration. Its mission is to recognize artistic excellence and develop educational efforts that empower both artists and audiences. The AFI Conservatory graduates have earned significant industry nominations and awards in Academy, Emmy, and Guild Awards.
Students should generally have an undergraduate degree. However, if they do not, they could receive a Certificate of Completion when enrolling as an Associate Scholar. AFI Conservatory creates six major specializations in Cinematography, Directing, Editing, Producing, Production Design, and Screenwriting.
3. National Film and Television School (NFTS)
- Film Program
- Degrees offered: Master’s
Over the decades, the National Film and Television School (NFTS) has nurtured some of the best creative geniuses in the United Kingdom and throughout the world. NFTS offers over 30 MA, Diploma, and Certification courses, and short training in various cinema, broadcast, and gaming fields. Undergraduates from different schools enroll in the NFTS to continue their chosen specialty at the postgraduate level.
NFTS graduate students have earned 13 Oscars, 145 BAFTAs, and 70 Emmys and have been recognized countless times. Films generated by NFTS students are also acknowledged by prominent prizes and organizations such as Grierson Awards, Sundance Film Festival, and Cannes Film Festival. They currently offer full-time courses in Cinematography, Creative Business, Film Studies Programming and Curation, Assistant Directing and Floor Managing, Screenwriting, etc.
4. University of California (UCLA) School of Theater, Film, and Television
- Film Program
- Degrees offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD
UCLA TFT innovates a highly dynamic society program and provides an entirely interdisciplinary environment where media, performing arts, and world-class research thrive. UCLA TFT objectives will equip dedicated students with the necessary skills to explore the structures around them as versatile creators and artists, equipped with the understanding, vision, and perspective to make great experiences in the creative industry.
UCLA offers a wide range of programs, such as online courses, summer programs, and professional programs. For undergraduates, they can opt for Cinema and Media Studies, Directing, Cinematography, Documentary, Producing, or Screenwriting. Graduates also have programs, including Production/ Directing, Documentary, or Animation.
5. NYU Tisch School of the Arts (TNYU)
- Film Program
- Degrees offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD
NYU Tisch School of the Arts is one of the most famous film schools in the world. They are among the major arts institutions in the country, introducing dance, theatrical design and production, and film studies. They deliver intensive professional learning and relevant experience in theater and filmmaking within the setting of a renowned academic institution.
Undergraduates can choose programs in Collaborative Arts, Cinema Studies, Photography & Imaging, or Interactive Media Arts. They also offer programs for graduate students such as Art & Public Policy, Design for Stage & Film, or Performance Studies.
6. California Institute of the Arts (CalArts)
- Film Program
- Tuition Fee Pages
- Scholarships Pages
- Degrees offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD
Founded by Walt Disney, the California Institute of the Arts is one of the finest film schools in Los Angeles. It delivers competitive undergraduate and graduates degree programs with its six Schools – Art, Critical Studies, Dance, Film/Video, Music, and Theater. They offer a comprehensive academic program and opportunities for each student to enhance their creative skills and talents.
These student’s degree programs include Acting, Experimental Animation, Film & Video, Graphic Design, Performer-Composer, etc. CalArts’ continuing learning project focuses on transparency, innovation, critical involvement, and artistic freedom.
7. Beijing Film Academy (BFA)
- Film Program
- Degrees offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD
BFA is China’s most prestigious film school and Asia’s leading institution specializing in film and broadcast production courses. It has nine schools offering courses separated into six divisions- Department of Screenwriting and Film Studies, Directing, Cinematography, Film-and-Television Technology, Film Studies, and Basic Education. They have an outstanding professor, broad subjects, and well-organized teaching methods, making BFA a place for developing skills in film creation, administration, and philosophy.
They deliver undergraduate and graduate degree programs along with short-term courses and diplomas. BFA has produced excellent alumni that have received national and international recognition for their talents in film and television for over four decades. Among their renowned graduates are filmmakers, editors, scriptwriters, and movie stars.
I hope that this article on Best Universities for Film in the World was helpful. To know more information on studying abroad, check out the Available Programs for International Students.
