Making your own film involves a lot of learning, from understanding how a camera works to managing a crew. While you don’t need a formal education to work in the film industry, having the right training can make a huge difference.
Below, you’ll find the main ways to learn filmmaking, from traditional film schools to online courses and hands-on experience.
Full-Time Film Degrees
If you’re serious about learning filmmaking, a full-time course can give you structure, access to professional equipment, and long-term career benefits. Bachelor’s and master’s degrees usually take 2–4 years and are offered by both film schools and universities.
Before applying, research the curriculum and, if possible, tour the campus and meet the tutors. A good fit makes all the difference.
Top U.S. Film Schools & Universities:
- American Film Institute – One of the world’s leading film conservatories, offering intensive hands-on training.
- New York University (NYU) – Renowned for storytelling and directing programs at the Tisch School of the Arts.
- University of Southern California (USC) – Famous for its film production program and strong industry links.
- Chapman University – Offers a modern curriculum with access to state-of-the-art film facilities.
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) – Known for its blend of creative and academic filmmaking courses.
- Columbia University – Focused on directing and screenwriting with a strong storytelling foundation.
Short Courses & Workshops
Short courses are a great way to learn the essentials without the long-term commitment. They can last from a day to a few months and are often hosted by universities, film schools, and festivals.
You can take general filmmaking courses or focus on specific skills like cinematography, editing, or screenwriting.
Popular Short Courses:
- NYU Short Courses – Practical workshops covering everything from directing to editing.
- UCLA Extension – Offers short-term creative industry classes taught by professionals.
- USC Summer Classes – Immersive courses for aspiring filmmakers looking to gain hands-on experience.
Apprenticeships
If classroom study isn’t for you, a film apprenticeship is the next best thing. You’ll learn on the job, earn money, and build real industry connections.
These placements can be highly competitive, so it’s worth checking the career pages of major film and TV companies.
Film & Media Apprenticeship Programs:
- Warner Bros. – Offers entry-level apprenticeships across film and TV production departments.
- The Intern Group – Connects students and graduates with global film internship opportunities.
- Lucasfilm – Provides creative and technical internships for aspiring filmmakers.
- Sony Pictures – Offers placements in production, post-production, and studio operations.
- Pixar – Known for its competitive animation and production internships.
Independent Filmmaking
Want to learn by doing? Start working on independent projects. Indie films are a great way to gain experience, meet collaborators, and build your resume — even if the pay is low at first.
Networking & Indie Film Platforms:
- Shooting People – A large online community connecting independent filmmakers.
- Stage 32 – Global networking platform for creatives in film and TV.
- Mandy – Job board for film crew positions, from entry-level to professional.
Online Courses
Prefer to learn at your own pace? Online courses are a flexible and affordable way to start. You can focus on storytelling, cinematography, or editing — all from home.
Many platforms offer free trials or discounts, so it’s worth testing a few before committing.
Recommended Online Learning Platforms:
- Skillshare – Offers beginner-friendly classes on filmmaking, editing, and storytelling.
- Domestika – Creative courses with high-quality video lessons from working filmmakers.
Summary
There’s no single “right” way to learn filmmaking. Whether you take a full-time course, join an apprenticeship, or teach yourself through indie projects, what matters most is gaining experience and building your portfolio.
Stay curious, keep learning, and make films as often as you can — that’s where the real education begins.
