Are you a young actor, filmmaker, or director wanting to advance your career? Our list of top film schools in Texas is tailored to those who wish to pursue their dreams in the entertainment industry.
The Lone Star State is home to some of the best film schools in the country. Whether you’re looking for a small, intimate program or a large, state-of-the-art school, Texas has something to offer everyone who’s interested in studying film. Here are some of the best film schools in Texas.
If you’re passionate about filmmaking and want to hone your skills at one of the best film schools in Texas, look no further than these top five programs. From small, private schools to large public universities, all of these programs will give you the tools you need to succeed in this competitive industry. So what are you waiting for? Start your journey toward becoming a Film Master today!
What are Film Schools?
Film schools are educational institutions that specialize in teaching the art and craft of filmmaking.
One of the main things that separates film schools from traditional universities is the hands-on approach that most film schools take to teaching. This hands-on approach often includes having students work on productions as part of their coursework.
Another distinguishing feature of most film schools is their focus on practical skills rather than theory. While theory is important, most film schools believe that it’s more important for students to learn how to actually make films.
Film schools can be expensive, and they’re not always easy to get into. But if you’re serious about becoming a filmmaker, a film school can be a great place to learn the ropes.
Some interesting reasons to bag a film school degree?
- You can work in various areas within the media industry
- There are many opportunities for career growth
- The media industry is always changing, so you will never get bored
- You will learn new skills and be constantly challenged
- Get paid to do something you love
- Work in an exciting and fast-paced industry
- Variety of roles and areas within the media industry to work in
- Continuous learning and development opportunities
What can you do with a Texas Film School Degree?
There are various career pathways and jobs available for film school degree holders and these include:
- Acting
- Producing
- Directing
- Cinematography
- Film editing
- Screenwriting
- Art directing
- Production design
- Casting
- Location scouting
Filming Career and Jobs Salaries
There are a lot of different types of careers in filmmaking, and the salary you can expect to earn depends heavily on what type of position you hold. For example, a director or producer typically earns a much higher salary than an assistant director or camera operator. Here is a breakdown of some common filmmaking jobs and the average salary you can expect to earn:
- Director: $92,220 per year
- Producer: $74,420 per year
- Assistant Director: $52,390 per year
- Camera Operator: $48,360 per year
- Sound Engineer: $44,660 per year
Of course, these are just averages and your actual salary will depend on factors like experience, location, and the size of the production. For example, a sound engineer working on a big budget Hollywood film will probably earn a lot more than one working on an independent film.
The amount of time it takes to get a film school degree can vary depending on the program you choose and your personal level of commitment. However, most full-time programs typically take around two to four years to complete.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in film, attending a reputable film school can give you the skills and knowledge you need to succeed. During your studies, you’ll learn about filmmaking techniques, storytelling, cinematography, and more. You’ll also have the opportunity to put what you’ve learned into practice by creating your own films.
While getting a film school degree may not be necessary to break into the industry, it can give you a significant advantage. Employers often prefer to hire candidates who have formal training in filmmaking, and a degree from a top film school can open up doors that would otherwise be closed.
Does Getting a Best Film School Degree matters?
First, what are your goals and aspirations? If you want to become a Hollywood filmmaker, then attending one of the best film schools in the country is likely worth the investment. However, if your goal is simply to make movies that you enjoy, then you may not need to attend an expensive film school.
Second, how much money are you willing to spend? Film school can be very expensive, and if you’re not able to secure scholarships or financial aid, it may not be worth taking on significant debt.
Third, how much time are you willing to dedicate? A top film school will provide you with an excellent education, but it will also require a lot of hard work. If you’re not prepared to commit the necessary time, then attending a less prestigious school may be a better option.
Also you need to consider your individual needs and circumstances.
Do Texas Colleges have excellent Filming courses?
Several colleges in Texas provide film-related bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Film & media arts, radio, television, and film are among the courses available.
List of Best Film Schools in Texas
Below are some of the best filming schools in Texas:
#1. The University Of Texas at Austin
The University of Texas at Austin is considered one of the best film schools in Texas. It offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees in film, and the faculty is made up of award-winning filmmakers.
UT Austin’s Department of Radio-Television-Film (RTF) is one of the largest and most prestigious communications programs in the country. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers all aspects of film, television, and new media. Students have access to state-of-the-art production facilities, including soundstages, a postproduction lab, digital animation studios, and more.
Film School Tuition Fee: $11,012 (Texas residents)
#2. Southern Methodist University
Southern Methodist University in Dallas is ranked as one of the best film schools in Texas. The program focuses on hands-on learning, and students have the opportunity to work on real film projects with industry professionals. degree also offers a specialization in screenwriting.
No doubt! SMU is a great school for those looking to get an arts degree that emphasizes creativity and originality.
The Fine Arts bachelor’s program at SMU offers students the opportunity not only learn about film production, but also other media such as photography or digital graphics design among others through their Meadows School Of The Arts curriculum which helps them develop skills in several different artistic disciplines .
Admission isn’t easy though; it’s competitive with 49% acceptance rates across all applicants–but if you’re lucky enough attend your dream college then this could be just what awaits! Graduating graduates go onto earn starting salaries ranging anywhere from $54300-$61000 per year depending on their field.
#3. Houston Baptist University
Houston Baptist University is a Christian institution of higher learning that strives to provide an educational experience where students can thrive not only academically but also spiritually and professionally.
They’ve got everything from academics that will challenge even our most dedicated students, spiritual development through church attendance at both local churches near campus or off-campus organizations.
Their mission isn’t only about providing a quality education but building character while doing so – which can happen when people come together under one banner: Jesus Christ Is Lord.”
Houston Baptist University is a school that strives to provide its students with an educational experience unlike any other.
Houston Baptist University offers one of the best film programs in Texas. The school’s average cost after aid is $20,000, and its graduation rate is 48%. Additionally, the school has an 72% acceptance rate, making it a great choice for students interested in pursuing a career in film. The university also offers a number of other excellent programs, including nursing, business, and education.
#4. The Art Institute of Austin
The Art Institute of Austin is widely considered to be one of the best film schools in Texas. Located in the state capital, the school offers students a chance to study film in one of the most vibrant and creative cities in the country.
It offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees in film and video production, with a curriculum that emphasizes both creative and technical aspects of filmmaking. The school’s faculty includes working professionals from the Austin film community, who provide students with real-world experience and insight into the local industry.
The Art Institute of Austin also has strong relationships with many local businesses and organizations, which provides students with opportunities to intern and work on projects around the city.
graduates have gone on to successful careers in filmmaking, television, advertising, gaming, and other media-related fields.
With an average cost of just $24,000 after financial aid, and a graduation rate of 23%, the school is an affordable option for many students. The 100% acceptance rate makes it one of the most accessible schools in the state as well.
#5. The Art Institute of Dallas
The Art Institute of Dallas is a for-profit college that offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in creative fields like design, fashion, media arts, and culinary arts. The school is accredited by the Miami International University of Art & Design, the Art Institute of Austin, the Art Institute of Atlanta etc.
The average annual cost of attendance before aid is $40,801. After aid, the average cost drops to $21,605. Only 20% of students at The Art Institute of Dallas graduate.
#6. Southwestern Assemblies of God University
Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU) is a private, Christian university located in Waxahachie, Texas. It was founded in 1927 and is affiliated with the Assemblies of God. The school offers associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in a variety of fields, including ministry, theological studies, liberal arts, and film.
SAGU has an average cost after aid of $25,000 and a graduation rate of 50%. Additionally, SAGU has an acceptance rate of 89%.
SAGU has been rated as one of the best colleges for film by the Onyx Film Academy. The school’s 28% acceptance rate makes it one of the most selective colleges in Texas. However, if you are interested in study in ministry or theological studies, SAGU is definitely worth considering. The university has an excellent reputation in these fields and offers a number of unique programs.
SAGU’s 41% graduation rate is slightly below the average for private colleges in Texas, but this is likely due in part to the fact that many students choose to transfer to other schools after completing their associate’s degree. Overall, SAGU is a great choice for students interested in pursuing a degree in film or ministry.
#8. KD Conservatory College of Film and Dramatic Arts
#9. University of Mary Hardin-Baylor
University of Mary Hardin-Baylor offer a degree in Film Studies, and have an acceptance rate of 79%.
UMHB is a great choice for aspiring filmmakers because of their strong focus on storytelling. Their curriculum covers all aspects of film-making, from screenwriting to cinematography to sound design. And you’ll get plenty of hands-on experience with their state-of-the-art equipment and facilities.
Graduates have gone on to work in major Hollywood productions, independent films, and everything in between. So if you’re serious about pursuing a career in film, UMHB is definitely worth considering.
#10. Our Lady of the Lake University
The Our Lady of the Lake (OLLU) is a Catholic, private institution in San Antonio, Texas. She runs a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts degree program in Mass Communication: Digital Film and Multimedia Production Concentration.
Their Bachelor of Arts degree in Visual and New Media Arts offers a wide range or courses to cultivate students’ creativity as well as the technological skills required for this focus.
Students can explore their passion, whether it is ceramics, printmaking & digital imaging while also learning how they could teach at university level if desired!
This Degree allows you tailor your studies so that there’s an art specialty – either all visual arts focused like painting but also includes new media related areas such animation software design etc.
Some of the things that make Our Lady of the Lake University stand out as a top film school include their world-class faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and comprehensive curriculum.
Students at Our Lady of the Lake University have access to some of the most experienced and respected professionals in the field, which means they’re getting an education that is second to none.
#11. University of Houston
The University of Houston is considered one of the best film schools in Texas. It offers a BFA in film and video, as well as an MFA in film and video production.
Both hands-on and theoretical filmmaking coursework. Located in Houston, Texas, the University of Houston’s School of Art is one of the most comprehensive art education programs in the country.
With over 1,200 students enrolled, UH offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees across nine departments: Visual and Performing Arts, Art History, Emerging Technologies & Media Design, Cinematic Arts & Technology, Dramatic Arts & Performance Studies} Music composition/production/technology}. Photography{Digital Media}, Studio Art, Communication {Film & Theatre}, Education {Art Education}.
The University of Houston’s School of Art is one of the most comprehensive art education programs in the country. With 3 Colleges within UH Arts Initiative, over 2,200 students enrolled and offer up to 27 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
#12. Saint Edward’s University
#13. Tyler Junior College
#14. Sam Houston State University
Sam Houston State University is one of the best film schools in Texas. Located in Huntsville, TX, their Department of Art offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with a concentration in Film and Digital Media.
The program at SHSU is designed to help students develop the creative, technical and theoretical skills necessary to succeed as filmmakers. In addition to hands-on production experience, students also have the opportunity to take classes in topics such as screenwriting, cinematography, post-production and digital media. The department also offers a number of specializations, including animation, documentary filmmaking and music video production.
#15. The Art Institute of Houston
The Art Institute of Houston is one of the best film schools in Texas. It offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film and Video Production, as well as a minor in film studies. The curriculum focuses on the technical and aesthetic aspects of filmmaking, from screenwriting and cinematography to directing and editing.
In addition to completing numerous video projects throughout their coursework, students have the opportunity to intern with local production companies or take part in study-abroad programs. The Art Institute of Houston also has a robust alumni network that can provide support and advice for those looking to enter the field of filmmaking.
