Arizona is a state that boasts a thriving film industry and is home to some of the best film schools in the country. With its diverse landscapes and varied climate, the Grand Canyon State is a popular destination for filmmakers and production companies alike. Whether you’re interested in film production, screenwriting, or film studies, there is a film school in Arizona that will meet your needs. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the top film schools in Arizona, and what makes them the best choice for aspiring filmmakers.

Best Film Schools in Arizona: A Comprehensive Guide

Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or a seasoned professional looking to further your education, there is a film school in Arizona that is perfect for you. From small, intimate programs to large universities with state-of-the-art facilities, Arizona has a film school for every type of student.

Arizona State University’s Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts – This is a comprehensive arts school within ASU offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in film and media production. The programs focus on the technical and creative aspects of film and media production, preparing students for careers in the industry.

1. Northern Arizona University’s School of Communication:

The Northern Arizona University School of Communication is known for helping students reach their full potential. The university also gives them access to the opportunities that a college education provides. Students in the School typically graduate with bachelor’s degrees in one or more of the following areas:  

• Communication Studies 
• Creative Media and Film 
• Journalism 
• Photography 
• Strategic Communication 
• Visual Communication 
• Master’s Degree in Communication 

The unifying feature of these degrees is their focus on communication. The school’s faculty have a wide range of research and creative interests, and they all share the same dedication to student success.

By the time students graduate, School of Communication students will have had the opportunity to publish their work in our Media Innovation Center, take advantage of photo studios with professional equipment, shoot an independent film, research public sentiment on timely issues, and create stunning visual design projects. These practical experiences can be powerful additions to students’ resumes as they prepare to take the next step into their careers.  

Their contactdetails can be seen below;

Address:

Building 16 School of Communication 700 S. Knoles Dr. PO Box: 5619 Flagstaff, AZ 86011

Email: School.Communication@nau.edu

Phone: 928-523-2232

Fax: 928-523-1505

2. The Art Institute of Phoenix:

The Art Institute of Phoenix offers a Bachelor of Science in Media Arts & Animation with a focus on film production. The program covers subjects such as storytelling, cinematography, editing, and sound design.

The Art Institute of Phoenix is one of The Art Institutes, a system of schools throughout the United States. Programs, credential levels, technology, and scheduling options vary by school and are subject to change. Not all online programs are available to residents of all U.S. states. Several institutions included in The Art Institutes system are campuses of Argosy University.

Address: The Art Institute of Phoenix, Black Canyon Corporate Center, 13430 North Black Canyon Highway, Suite 190, Phoenix, AZ 85029

Email Address: materialsreview@aii.edu.

3. Grand Canyon University’s College of Fine Arts and Production:

GCU offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film and Television Production that emphasizes hands-on learning experiences, including workshops and projects in film production.

GCU has seen incredible campus growth over the last 10 years and has experienced a nearly $1.6 billion expansion of the campus through new technologies, classrooms, laboratories, athletic facilities and student amenities.³ GCU also continues our commitment to improve the surrounding community and provide continued growth and career opportunities for full-time faculty.

Address: Grand Canyon University 3300 West Camelback Road – Phoenix, AZ 85017

P.O. Box: 11097 Phoenix, AZ 85061

Phone: 855-GCU-LOPE

4. Scottsdale Community College’s Film and Video Production Program:

Scottsdale Community College is a student-centered institution, with a focus on active, engaged and intellectually rigorous learning. The college is known for high quality, accessible educational opportunities and innovative teaching, learning and support services. SCC serves approximately 10,000 students a year, offering more than 100 degrees and 60 certificates of completion in diverse occupational areas. SCC is a leader in Developmental Education, Open Education Resources, Undergraduate Research, and Service Learning, all designed to improve and facilitate student success.

Address: 9000 East Chaparral Road Scottsdale, AZ 85256-2626

Phone: (480) 423-6000

5. Full Sail University’s Online Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film Production:

Full Sail University offers an online Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film Production, designed for students who want to learn about the technical and creative aspects of film production from anywhere in the world.

If you have a passion for filmmaking, Full Sail’s Film bachelor’s program is a very good option for you as it provides you with a comprehensive overview of the industry – while allowing you to discover your unique place within it. You’ll start by sampling the varied skills and technologies a professional film studio has to offer – from writing to set decoration and makeup. Later, you’ll pick an industry-focused specialization based on your interests.

Address: 3300 University Boulevard Winter Park, Florida 32792

Phone: 800.226.7625

6. Glendale Community College’s Film and Video Production Program:

In 1926, higher education was reserved for a relative few, but farsighted citizens in Glendale recognized the need to open doors to academic and vocational instruction to a broader base of the community. As a result, Glendale citizens voted to form a community college, or junior college as it was then called, as part of the Glendale Unified School District.

The faculty has used its energy to develop a wide-ranging curriculum intended to prepare students for the 21st century. Student services faculty provide invaluable academic, career, and financial counseling to students. Today the goal of those farsighted citizens of Glendale has been achieved. Higher education is available to all who come to Glendale Community College.

The GCC’s Film and Video Production Program provides students with a solid foundation in the technical and creative aspects of film production, including courses in cinematography, editing, and sound design.

 Address: 1500 North Verdugo Road Glendale, California 91208 

Phone: 818-240-1000 

7. University of Arizona’s School of Theatre, Film & Television:

The University of Arizona’s School of Theatre, Film & Television offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in film and television production, providing students with a comprehensive education in the technical and creative aspects of film and television production.

Contact Details:

THEATRE

P.O. BOX: 210003
Address: 1025 N Olive Rd. Drama Bldg, Rm 239 Tucson, AZ 85721-0003

Email: theatre@cfa.arizona.edu

Phone: (520) 621-7008

Fax: (520) 621-2412

FILM & TELEVISION

P.O. BOX: 210158B
Address: 845 N Park Ave. Marshall Bldg, Rm 220 Tucson, AZ 85721-0158b

Email: ftvinfo@cfa.arizona.edu

Phone: (520) 621-7352

Fax: (520) 621-9662

8. Phoenix College’s Film Production Program:

Phoenix College (PC) welcomed its first students, as one of the first higher education institutions in Maricopa County on September 13, 1920. PC’s founders envisioned the College as a place of inclusion, as a non-segregated institution.

Today, the College continues to be a place of diversity, equity and access. Our focus on transformation includes seeking out partnerships that work with opportunity youth, refugee and immigrant populations, Hispanic, Asian, Native American populations and adult learners. PC is dedicated to providing access to valuable and affordable education and community services.

With over 150 degree and certificate programs, Phoenix College serves approximately 17,000 students each year. They also work to prepare students for whatever their next step is — university transfer, career training and advancement, or lifelong learning.

9. Estrella Mountain Community College’s Film and Video Production Program:

If you are a creative thinker and like to communicate ideas through visual art, design, dance, music, or theatre, the Visual and Performing Arts Field of Interest may be the right choice for you.

Maricopa Community Colleges’ Visual and Performing Arts students gain hands-on foundational skills in their chosen mode of expression, including studio art, fashion design, interior design, acting, theatre production, vocal and instrumental performance, and film and audio production. They also develop cultural awareness and the communication, creative, and critical thinking skills necessary for success in a variety of fields. Students in the Visual and Performing Arts FOI may seek direct employment as artists, musicians, designers, actors or audio producers, or they may pursue a bachelor’s or graduate-level degree for a career in teaching, art direction, theatre production, fashion or interior design, media arts, and film.

The EMCC’s Film and Video Production Program provides students with a comprehensive education in the technical and creative aspects of film production, including courses in cinematography, editing, and sound design.

Address: 3000 N. Dysart Road, Avondale, AZ 85392

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the difference between a film school and a film program?

A: A film school is an institution that is dedicated to providing education and training in all aspects of filmmaking, from film production to film studies. On the other hand, a film program is a specific course of study within a larger institution, such as a university. While a film school may offer a range of programs and courses, a film program typically focuses on a specific aspect of filmmaking, such as screenwriting or film production.

Q: How do I choose the best film school in Arizona for me?

A: The best film school for you will depend on your individual needs and goals. Consider factors such as location, size of the program, focus of the program, and available resources and facilities when making your decision. It’s also important to consider your budget and the cost of tuition, as well as the career prospects after graduation. Research each of the film schools in Arizona and choose the one that best fits your needs and goals.

Q: What should I look for in a film school in Arizona?

A: When choosing a film school in Arizona, look for a program that has a strong focus on hands-on learning and practical experience. You should also consider the size of the program, the availability of resources and facilities, the diversity of the faculty, and the career prospects after graduation. Additionally, consider the location of the school and whether it is located in an area with a thriving film industry, as this can be beneficial for networking and finding employment after graduation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Arizona is home to some of the best film schools in the country and provides aspiring filmmakers with a range of options to suit their individual needs and goals. Whether you’re interested in film production, screenwriting, or film studies, there is a film school in Arizona that is perfect for you. With its focus on innovation and technology, strong academic programs, and state-of-the-art facilities, Arizona is the ideal place to pursue your dreams of a career in filmmaking. So why wait? Start your journey today and discover the best film schools in Arizona!