11 Most Affordable Film Schools in The US

Which are the most affordable film schools in the US? Film studies are one of the most coveted majors in the world today. Over the time film studies have transcended being the risky business as more avenues in the areas have opened up, and currently, more students are signing up for a career in the film industry than ever. But, the choice of selecting the perfect college is indeed the most important and the tuitions and costs forms one of the important factors in that consideration.

A lot of successful directors often stress that film schools aren’t the greatest factor for success. For a highly dynamic and creative field as this- a person’s vision, intellect and creativity often trump the necessity of a solid educational background. However, a sound technical background cannot be discounted altogether, and film schools are instrumental in building and teaching technical and conceptual skills.

Film studies also include several areas within its purview. From screenwriting, directing to cinematography, there are several domains one can be interested it. Complex equipment is also involved, and most of the times it escalate the actual cost of training drastically. It is, therefore, advisable to choose a college well within your budget as far as tuitions are concerned.

Our list of the most affordable film schools in the US has been created after considering the tuitions of over 50 of the top film schools in the country, which ensures they also provide some of the best quality education and training in the field. We have considered list by Hollywood Reporter and American School Search to arrive at the top colleges and have rated them according to their affordability and tuitions.

Selecting a college suited to your needs can be a burden and all the research is welcome. If you are interested in arts as well, do check out our list of the 11 most affordable art schools in America.

It’s not always glitzy and glamorous in the film world and to get to it, there is a lot of hard work and studying involved. But, if you are serious about a career in films, it might be a good idea to plan well in advance and to take a note from our list might just be a starting point!

11. Columbia College Chicago

Tuition Costs: around $21,800

Columbia College, Chicago is one of the most reputable and the largest college in the country. The college is committed to providing a superior degree that gives their students a landing into the industry.

10. University of Kansas

Tuition Costs: around $ 21,800

The University of Kansas offers graduate as well as undergraduate courses in film and media studies. The tuition rates are considerably reasonable, and so are the on-campus housing facilities. The university also has some notable alumni to boast of.

9. American Conservatory Theater

Tuition Costs: around $20,700

Though intakes are very limited in this college, their master degrees are quite sought after. It is located in San Francisco, and alumni include celebrated names like Denzel Washington, Elizabeth Banks, and Nicholas Cage.

8. Art Center College of Design, Pasadena

Tuition Costs: around $20,260

Located in Southern California, the Art Center is known to have a unique and liberal approach in their courses. With inspiring and beautiful campuses, the creativity of students is encouraged. Previous attendees include massively successful director, Zach Snyder.

7. University at Buffalo

Tuition Costs: around $18,700

Graduate and undergraduate courses are offered at the University of Buffalo, along with reasonable on-campus stay options. The college has some state of the art equipment and facilities for the students.

6. San Francisco State University

Tuition Costs: around $18,000

With recent expansions in the cinema department and some newly added faculty, San Francisco State University now offers a comprehensive course in cinema. The college offers high-tech resources to the students and placement records have been great so far.

5. University of Texas, Austin

Tuition Costs: around $17,000

The University of Texas might be one of the most affordable film schools in the US, but it does not compromise on its education. The public university has some of the best facilities including equipment for 3D production. Also, here you get to be taught by Matthew McConaughey himself!

4. Colorado Film School

Tuition Costs: around $15,000

Programs include screenwriting, cinematography, direction and post production among others. The college has a very limited intake of about 400 students but ensures the best facilities for its students including a virtual simulated production set.

3. University of California Los Angeles

Tuition Costs: around $15,000

There are film schools that provide you great retention and there are film schools that ensure a creative freedom. At UCLA, you can rest assured that you will get the best of both worlds. The college also has a huge number of attendees and great post study opportunities.

2. CUNY Hunter College

Tuition Costs: around $12,100

The fully fledged film department at CUNY Hunter College offers 2 undergrad programs as well as a graduate program. The tuition and on-campus accommodation are affordable, and the courses are dedicated towards the development of a diverse range of skills.

1. Brigham Young University Provo

Tuition Costs: around $4,800

The College provides programs in film studies at unbelievable tuition rates! And, it has great retention rates as well. The curriculum aims to create films from the academic and artistic perspectives. With the tuitions being as low as $4,800, it has to be the most affordable film school in the US.