Film school programs are not all alike, sure you learn about filmmaking in the art form, practicality and how to make a movie but the approach, ease of admittance and methods can vary greatly. There are film programs offered by colleges, universities, independent schools, filmmaking academies and more. The more you know about each type of program the better you will informed so you can make the choice that is best for you and your current situation.
University Education A typical four year course of study in which you major in film but also complete general education at the same time like any other university program major.
The Up Side: Since it's a normal school they have lots of money for grants and scholarships they can give out to make going to school more affordable and possible. Here they have the best equipment and materials at your disposal because there is enough money to keep everything funded. Also the majority of the professors are part time because they spend the rest of their time working in the industry in their given fields. Since they're working in the business they know lots of people and can bring them to class. Also the big schools get all the first looks at internships and jobs helping their students become as successful as possible.
The Bad: You don't always get complete control over the rights to your films when you use school equipment and resources so you have to check first if this will be a problem.
College Film Schools Smaller schools who have actual film programs that are distinguished from other fields of study.
The Good: The admissions counselors are easier to work with so if you have poorer grades you'll have a chance at being admitted here where as the bigger schools might pass you up. Since there are less people you get more personal attention.
Bad: Less money from the school means less equipment and likely fewer opportunities to meet with industry leaders and learn from current pros.
Filmmaking Study Programs Six month to one and a half year programs that focus only on filmmaking from start to finish.
Good: It's quick so you get done right away and can start working after only a year or so of training. A lot of access is available to pros and real life experience as these take place in popular filmmaking locations and on back lots and production studios.
The Bad: These are very expensive and all intensive leaving you very little time for work and making any income while studying.
Alternative Filmmaking Programs Some weekend courses are offered as well as small study programs that take place over a couple weeks or more. These are all great but you won't learn more than the basics because you need lots of time to actually learn the art of filmmaking.
University Education A typical four year course of study in which you major in film but also complete general education at the same time like any other university program major.
The Up Side: Since it's a normal school they have lots of money for grants and scholarships they can give out to make going to school more affordable and possible. Here they have the best equipment and materials at your disposal because there is enough money to keep everything funded. Also the majority of the professors are part time because they spend the rest of their time working in the industry in their given fields. Since they're working in the business they know lots of people and can bring them to class. Also the big schools get all the first looks at internships and jobs helping their students become as successful as possible.
The Bad: You don't always get complete control over the rights to your films when you use school equipment and resources so you have to check first if this will be a problem.
College Film Schools Smaller schools who have actual film programs that are distinguished from other fields of study.
The Good: The admissions counselors are easier to work with so if you have poorer grades you'll have a chance at being admitted here where as the bigger schools might pass you up. Since there are less people you get more personal attention.
Bad: Less money from the school means less equipment and likely fewer opportunities to meet with industry leaders and learn from current pros.
Filmmaking Study Programs Six month to one and a half year programs that focus only on filmmaking from start to finish.
Good: It's quick so you get done right away and can start working after only a year or so of training. A lot of access is available to pros and real life experience as these take place in popular filmmaking locations and on back lots and production studios.
The Bad: These are very expensive and all intensive leaving you very little time for work and making any income while studying.
Alternative Filmmaking Programs Some weekend courses are offered as well as small study programs that take place over a couple weeks or more. These are all great but you won't learn more than the basics because you need lots of time to actually learn the art of filmmaking.
About the Author:
Learn the art of making movies from tutors from Hollywood and other filmmaking hubs of the world at Asia's Premier filmmaking school, the International Academy of Film and Television (IAFT).
