A Comparison of Filmmaking Programs
When you hear the term “film school” a lot of different things may come to mind. That is because there are lots of kinds of film schools, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. While they all teach the business of film and filmmaking in general some may be better than others for you, your lifestyle and what you’re trying to get out of going to film school. By looking into all your options you can ensure you make the right decision and get the most out of your time and education.
University School Film Programs A university that offers a degree in filmmaking and has a separate school where students attend and complete general education as well as film studies. These usually take four years to complete.
The Good: Universities give out scholarships to pay for your education and have lots of money to spend on equipment and resources so you can always have the best things to work with. The professors usually work in the industry part time and teach part time so they are up to date on the latest trends, filmmaking practices and have lots of industry friends they can bring into the class to help teach. They also get the first call on all major internships and jobs to help their students get out of school and right into a career.
Bad: You may not own the films you make while in school because some schools, not all, but some claim ownership because they provided all the equipment and resources for the film to be produced in the first place. While your name is still attached it may not be entirely yours.
College Programs Smaller film schools that are part of a smaller college but still offer degrees of some sort in film.
The Up Side: Getting accepted to the school and film program is simpler since less people apply so you don’t have be already be an amazing filmmaker or a stellar student to get in. You can get more attention if you go here because there are less people in the program.
Bad: Less money from the school means less equipment and likely fewer opportunities to meet with industry leaders and learn from current pros.
Independent Film Schools One year or so programs that concentrate solely on film.
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 Down Side: Study in these is full time so you’ll have to focus just on that and won’t be able to work. The programs are very expensive, often in the range of over thirty grand so you’ll have to have the cash to invest.
More Filmmaking Programs There are also independent filmmaking course that can range from a weekend course to a couple weeks of study but you won’t be able to learn much more than the basics because filmmaking is a skill and takes time to learn and master.
Discussion Area - Leave a Comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.