Online Film Schools‘ If you have a passion for filmmaking and want to pursue a career in the film industry, you might be wondering if you need to attend a traditional film school or if you can learn the skills and techniques online.
Online film schools offer many advantages for busy, creative, and independent learners who want to study at their own pace, from anywhere in the world, and with lower costs. But how do you choose the best online film school for your goals and interests? Here are some factors to consider and some of the top online film schools you should know.
Table of Contents
What to Look for in an Online Film School
Online film schools vary in terms of their curriculum, faculty, accreditation, and reputation. Before you enroll in any online film program, you should do some research and compare different options based on the following criteria:
- Curriculum: What kind of courses does the online film school offer? Does it cover the topics and skills that you want to learn, such as directing, cinematography, editing, screenwriting, sound design, or animation? Does it provide a balance between theory and practice, and allow you to work on hands-on projects and assignments? Does it offer electives or specialization options that suit your interests and career goals?
- Faculty: Who are the instructors and mentors of the online film school? Do they have relevant academic credentials and professional experience in the film industry? Do they have a good reputation and feedback from former or current students? Do they provide personalized guidance and feedback to online learners?
- Accreditation: Is the online film school accredited by a recognized agency or organization that ensures its quality and standards? Accreditation can affect the value and recognition of your degree or certificate, as well as your eligibility for financial aid or transfer credits.
- Reputation: How is the online film school regarded by employers, peers, and alumni in the film industry? Does it have a strong network of alumni and industry partners that can help you with career opportunities and connections? Does it showcase its students’ work and achievements on its website or social media platforms?
Top Online Film Schools You Should Know
Based on these criteria, here are some of the best online film schools that you should consider for your education:
- BestColleges:Â BestColleges is a website that ranks and reviews online degree programs from accredited colleges and universities. It offers a list of the best online film degree programs of 2023, based on factors such as academic quality, affordability, flexibility, and student satisfaction. Some of the top-rated online film degrees on its list include:
- Bachelor of Arts in Digital Cinema from DePaul University
- Bachelor of Science in Digital Cinematography from Full Sail University
- Bachelor of Arts in Film Studies from Arizona State University
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Creative Writing for Entertainment from Full Sail University
- Bachelor of Arts in Media Communications from Webster University
- Careers in Film:Â Careers in Film is a website that provides information and resources for aspiring filmmakers who want to learn about different careers, skills, and opportunities in the film industry. It also features a list of seven online film schools that offer high-quality education and training in various aspects of filmmaking. Some of the online film schools on its list include:
- Los Angeles Film School
- New York Film Academy
- Academy of Art University
- Lights Film School
- MasterClass
- GetEducated:Â GetEducated is another website that helps online learners find and compare accredited online degree programs from reputable institutions. It also has a list of the top 11 online film schools of 2023, based on factors such as tuition cost, student reviews, graduation rate, and accreditation. Some of the online film schools on its list include:
- Savannah College of Art and Design
- Southern New Hampshire University
- Regent University
- Liberty University
- National University
FAQs
What are online film schools?
Online film schools are educational programs that teach you the skills and techniques of filmmaking through online courses, videos, assignments, and projects. Online film schools can offer degrees, certificates, or non-credit courses in various aspects of filmmaking, such as directing, cinematography, editing, screenwriting, sound design, or animation.
What are the benefits of online film schools?
Online film schools offer many benefits for aspiring filmmakers who want to learn at their own pace, from anywhere in the world, and with lower costs. Online film schools can also provide access to high-quality instruction from award-winning filmmakers and industry experts, as well as opportunities to network with peers and mentors online. Online film schools can also allow you to balance your studies with your work, family, or other commitments.
What are the drawbacks of online film schools?
Online film schools may not be able to replicate the hands-on experience and feedback that you would get from a traditional film school. Online film schools may also require you to have your own equipment and software, as well as a reliable internet connection and computer. Online film schools may also have less recognition and accreditation than some traditional film schools.
How do I choose the best online film school for me?
There are many factors to consider when choosing an online film school, such as the curriculum, faculty, accreditation, reputation, cost, and flexibility of the program. You should do some research and compare different options based on your interests, goals, and budget. You can also look for reviews and testimonials from former or current students of the online film school.
Conclusion
Online film schools can be a great option for aspiring filmmakers who want to learn the art and craft of filmmaking without having to relocate, pay high tuition fees, or follow a rigid schedule. However, not all online film schools are created equal, so you should do your homework and find the one that best suits your needs and aspirations. By considering the curriculum, faculty, accreditation, and reputation of different online film schools, you can make an informed decision and enroll in a program that will help you achieve your filmmaking dreams.
