Best Film Schools in Missouri

The film industry is an ever-evolving and dynamic industry that offers a wide range of opportunities for those who are passionate about storytelling and creativity. Aspiring filmmakers often dream of making it big in Hollywood, but what many don’t realize is that some of the best film schools in the country can be found right here in Missouri.

The Art of Filmmaking

Exploring the Best Film Schools in Missouri is a comprehensive guide that provides an in-depth look at the top film schools in Missouri. Whether you are a high school student looking to pursue a career in the film industry, or a seasoned professional looking to enhance your skills, this book has something for everyone.

In this book, we explore the benefits of attending a film school, the different types of programs available, and what you can expect to learn during your time in school. We also take an in-depth look at the top film schools in Missouri, providing detailed information about each school’s programs, faculty, facilities, and more.

Whether you are interested in screenwriting, directing, cinematography, or any other aspect of filmmaking, this book will help you find the perfect film school to help you achieve your goals. So sit back, grab a cup of coffee, and get ready to explore the world of filmmaking in Missouri.

Introduction to the Film Industry in Missouri

Missouri has a long history in the film industry, with many major films being shot in the state over the years. Some of the most notable films shot in Missouri include Gone Girl, Winter’s Bone, and Up in the Air, to name just a few.

The state has a diverse range of locations that make it an ideal destination for filmmakers. From the urban landscape of Kansas City and St. Louis to the rolling hills of the Ozarks and the wide-open spaces of rural Missouri, the state offers a variety of backdrops for filmmakers to choose from.

In addition to its diverse locations, Missouri also offers a variety of tax incentives and film-friendly policies that make it an attractive destination for filmmakers. The state’s Film Production Tax Credit program, for example, provides a tax credit of up to 35% of qualified production expenditures for eligible film and television productions.

As a result of these incentives and policies, many production companies have chosen to shoot their films and television shows in Missouri, which has helped to grow the state’s film industry and create jobs in the process.

Overall, Missouri’s rich history in the film industry, diverse locations, and film-friendly policies make it an ideal destination for filmmakers and a great place to study film. In the following chapters, we will take an in-depth look at some of the best film schools in Missouri, providing detailed information about each school’s programs, faculty, facilities, and more.

Understanding the Importance of Film Education

While many people may believe that you don’t need to attend film school to become a successful filmmaker, the truth is that film education can be invaluable. A good film school can provide you with the knowledge, skills, and experience you need to succeed in the film industry.

One of the main benefits of attending film school is that you will have access to experienced industry professionals who can provide you with valuable guidance and mentorship. Film schools often employ professors who have worked in the industry for years and can offer insights into everything from screenwriting to film production.

In addition to learning from experienced professionals, attending film school also provides you with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience working on film productions. Many film schools offer internship programs or have their own production studios where students can work on real film projects.

Another benefit of attending film school is that it provides you with the opportunity to build a network of industry contacts. You will have the chance to meet and work with other aspiring filmmakers, as well as industry professionals who can help you get your foot in the door.

Finally, attending film school can also provide you with access to the latest technology and equipment. As technology continues to advance, it is important for filmmakers to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and equipment. Many film schools have state-of-the-art equipment and facilities that can help you gain experience using the latest technology.

Overall, attending film school can be a great way to gain the knowledge, skills, and experience you need to succeed in the film industry. In the following chapters, we will take a closer look at some of the top film schools in Missouri and what they have to offer.

The Benefits of Attending a Film School

Attending a film school can provide a variety of benefits, including:

1. Access to Experienced Professionals: Film schools often employ professors who have worked in the industry for years and can offer valuable insights and guidance.
2. Hands-on Experience: Many film schools offer internship programs or have their own production studios where students can work on real film projects.
3. Networking Opportunities: Attending film school provides you with the opportunity to build a network of industry contacts, which can help you get your foot in the door.
4. Access to Technology and Equipment: Film schools often have state-of-the-art equipment and facilities that can help you gain experience using the latest technology.
5. Exposure to Different Aspects of Filmmaking: Film school provides you with the opportunity to learn about all aspects of filmmaking, including screenwriting, directing, cinematography, and more.
6. A Safe Environment to Experiment and Learn: Film school provides a safe and supportive environment where you can experiment and learn without the pressure of the real world.

Overall, attending film school can be a great way to gain the knowledge, skills, and experience you need to succeed in the film industry.

Top Film Schools in Missouri – A Comprehensive Overview

Missouri is home to a variety of top film schools, each offering its own unique programs, facilities, and faculty. In this chapter, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the top film schools in Missouri.

1. The University of Missouri – School of Journalism: The University of Missouri offers a variety of film-related programs, including a Bachelor of Journalism degree with an emphasis in documentary journalism, a Master of Arts in Film Studies, and a PhD in Journalism with an emphasis in documentary studies.
2. Stephens College – School of Creative Arts: Stephens College offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film and Screenwriting, as well as a Master of Fine Arts in Screenwriting and Television Writing.
3. Kansas City Art

4. Webster University – School of Communications: Webster University offers a variety of film-related programs, including a Bachelor of Arts in Film Production, a Master of Fine Arts in Film Production, and a Master of Arts in Media Communications.
5. Missouri State University – Department of Media, Journalism, and Film: Missouri State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Digital Film Production, as well as a Master of Arts in Media, Journalism, and Film.
6. Lindenwood University – School of Arts, Media, and Communications: Lindenwood University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Cinema Arts, as well as a Master of Fine Arts in Writing for Film and Television.
7. Washington University in St. Louis – Film and Media Studies Program: Washington University in St. Louis offers a Bachelor of Arts in Film and Media Studies, as well as a Master of Arts in Film and Media Studies.

Each of these top film schools in Missouri offers unique programs, facilities, and faculty that can help aspiring filmmakers gain the knowledge, skills, and experience they need to succeed in the film industry. In the following chapters, we will take a closer look at each of these film schools and what they have to offer.

1. The University of Missouri – School of Journalism

The University of Missouri’s School of Journalism offers a variety of film-related programs that can help students gain the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the film industry.

The Bachelor of Journalism degree with an emphasis in documentary journalism is designed to prepare students for careers in documentary filmmaking. Students will learn about all aspects of documentary production, including research, story development, pre-production, production, and post-production. They will also have the opportunity to work on real-world documentary projects and gain hands-on experience in the field.

The Master of Arts in Film Studies is designed for students who want to pursue a career in film criticism, film history, or film theory. The program provides a comprehensive understanding of film as an art form, as well as its historical and cultural significance. Students will take courses in film analysis, film history, and film theory, and will have the opportunity to conduct independent research in their area of interest.

The PhD in Journalism with an emphasis in documentary studies is designed for students who want to pursue a career in documentary studies or film criticism. The program provides a comprehensive understanding of documentary film as an art form, as well as its historical and cultural significance. Students will take courses in documentary studies, film history, and film theory, and will have the opportunity to conduct independent research in their area of interest.

Overall, the University of Missouri’s School of Journalism offers a variety of film-related programs that can help students gain the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the film industry. In the next chapter, we will take a closer look at Stephens College’s School of Creative Arts and its film-related programs.

2. Stephens College – School of Creative Arts

Stephens College’s School of Creative Arts offers a variety of film-related programs that can help students gain the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the film industry.

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Digital Filmmaking is designed for students who want to pursue a career in digital filmmaking. Students will learn all aspects of digital filmmaking, including pre-production, production, post-production, and distribution. They will also have the opportunity to work on real-world projects and gain hands-on experience in the field.

The Master of Fine Arts in TV and Screenwriting is designed for students who want to pursue a career in screenwriting. The program provides a comprehensive understanding of storytelling and screenwriting, as well as the business aspects of the film industry. Students will take courses in screenwriting, film history, and film theory, and will have the opportunity to work on real-world projects and gain hands-on experience in the field.

Stephens College also offers a variety of minors and certificates in film-related fields, including film studies, digital filmmaking, and screenwriting.

The School of Creative Arts at Stephens College is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including a soundstage, post-production lab, and screening room. Students have access to high-quality equipment and software, and are taught by experienced faculty who are working professionals in the film industry.

Overall, Stephens College’s School of Creative Arts offers a variety of film-related programs and facilities that can help students gain the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the film industry. In the next chapter, we will take a closer look at the film-related programs at the University of Central Missouri.

3. University of Central Missouri – Department of Communication

The University of Central Missouri’s Department of Communication offers a variety of film-related programs that can help students gain the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the film industry.

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Digital Media Production is designed for students who want to pursue a career in digital media production. Students will learn all aspects of digital media production, including pre-production, production, post-production, and distribution. They will also have the opportunity to work on real-world projects and gain hands-on experience in the field.

The Master of Arts in Mass Communication with an emphasis in digital media production is designed for students who want to pursue a career in digital media production or digital media management. The program provides a comprehensive understanding of digital media production and management, as well as the business aspects of the film industry. Students will take courses in digital media production, digital media management, and media law, and will have the opportunity to work on real-world projects and gain hands-on experience in the field.

The Department of Communication at the University of Central Missouri is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including a studio and control room, post-production lab, and screening room. Students have access to high-quality equipment and software, and are taught by experienced faculty who are working professionals in the film industry.

Overall, the University of Central Missouri’s Department of Communication offers a variety of film-related programs and facilities that can help students gain the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the film industry. In the next chapter, we will take a closer look at the film-related programs at Columbia College.

4. Columbia College – Film and Video Department

Columbia College’s Film and Video Department offers a variety of film-related programs that can help students gain the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the film industry.

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film and Video is designed for students who want to pursue a career in film and video production. Students will learn all aspects of film and video production, including pre-production, production, post-production, and distribution. They will also have the opportunity to work on real-world projects and gain hands-on experience in the field.

The Master of Fine Arts in Film and Video is designed for students who want to pursue a career in film and video production or film studies. The program provides a comprehensive understanding of film and video production, as well as film history and theory. Students will take courses in film and video production, film history, and film theory, and will have the opportunity to work on real-world projects and gain hands-on experience in the field.

Columbia College also offers a variety of minors and certificates in film-related fields, including screenwriting, film studies, and film production.

The Film and Video Department at Columbia College is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including a soundstage, post-production lab, and screening room. Students have access to high-quality equipment and software, and are taught by experienced faculty who are working professionals in the film industry.

Overall, Columbia College’s Film and Video Department offers a variety of film-related programs and facilities that can help students gain the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the film industry. In the next chapter, we will take a closer look at the film-related programs at Webster University.

5. Webster University – School of Communications

Webster University’s School of Communications offers a variety of film-related programs that can help students gain the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the film industry.

The Bachelor of Arts in Film Production is designed for students who want to pursue a career in film production. Students will learn all aspects of film production, including pre-production, production, post-production, and distribution. They will also have the opportunity to work on real-world projects and gain hands-on experience in the field.

The Master of Arts in Media Communications with an emphasis in Film Production is designed for students who want to pursue a career in film production or film studies. The program provides a comprehensive understanding of film production, as well as film history and theory. Students will take courses in film production, film history, and film theory, and will have the opportunity to work on real-world projects and gain hands-on experience in the field.

Webster University also offers a variety of minors and certificates in film-related fields, including screenwriting, film studies, and documentary filmmaking.

The School of Communications at Webster University is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including a soundstage, post-production lab, and screening room. Students have access to high-quality equipment and software, and are taught by experienced faculty who are working professionals in the film industry.

Overall, Webster University’s School of Communications offers a variety of film-related programs and facilities that can help students gain the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the film industry. In the next chapter, we will take a closer look at the film-related programs at Lindenwood University.

6. Lindenwood University – School of Arts, Media, and Communications

Lindenwood University’s School of Arts, Media, and Communications offers a variety of film-related programs that can help students gain the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the film industry.

The Bachelor of Arts in Film and Television Production is designed for students who want to pursue a career in film and television production. Students will learn all aspects of film and television production, including pre-production, production, post-production, and distribution. They will also have the opportunity to work on real-world projects and gain hands-on experience in the field.

The Master of Fine Arts in Writing for Film and Television is designed for students who want to pursue a career in screenwriting for film and television. The program provides a comprehensive understanding of screenwriting, as well as the business aspects of the film industry. Students will take courses in screenwriting, film history, and film theory, and will have the opportunity to work on real-world projects and gain hands-on experience in the field.

Lindenwood University also offers a variety of minors and certificates in film-related fields, including film studies, film production, and animation.

The School of Arts, Media, and Communications at Lindenwood University is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including a soundstage, post-production lab, and screening room. Students have access to high-quality equipment and software, and are taught by experienced faculty who are working professionals in the film industry.

Overall, Lindenwood University’s School of Arts, Media, and Communications offers a variety of film-related programs and facilities that can help students gain the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the film industry.

In conclusion, Missouri offers several excellent film schools that provide students with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in the film industry. From the University of Missouri’s Film Studies Program to the School of Communications at Webster University, these schools offer a wide range of programs that cater to the interests and goals of aspiring filmmakers. By enrolling in these programs, students can gain hands-on experience, develop their skills, and build a strong foundation for a successful career in the film industry.

7. The Film Industry in Missouri

Missouri has a thriving film industry that has been steadily growing over the years. The state is home to several film studios, production companies, and post-production facilities that have contributed to the growth of the industry.

One of the most significant factors contributing to the growth of the film industry in Missouri is the state’s tax incentive program. In 2009, Missouri passed the Missouri Film Production Tax Credit Program, which provides a 35% tax credit for qualified expenditures for film, television, and digital media production in the state. This program has attracted many filmmakers to the state, as it provides a significant financial incentive to shoot in Missouri.

Another factor contributing to the growth of the film industry in Missouri is the state’s diverse range of filming locations. From bustling cities like St. Louis and Kansas City to rural landscapes and historic sites, Missouri offers a wide range of locations that can accommodate different types of productions. The state also has a variety of indoor and outdoor soundstages and production facilities that provide filmmakers with the infrastructure they need to create high-quality productions.

In recent years, several high-profile film productions have been shot in Missouri. These include “Gone Girl,” directed by David Fincher and based on the novel by Gillian Flynn, which was filmed in Cape Girardeau and St. Louis. Another notable production shot in Missouri is “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri,” directed by Martin McDonagh and starring Frances McDormand, which was shot in Sylva and Asheville.

The growth of the film industry in Missouri has also created job opportunities for local residents. Filmmaking requires a diverse range of skills and expertise, including lighting, sound, set design, makeup, and special effects. As a result, the film industry has created jobs for actors, directors, producers, technicians, and support staff, contributing to the state’s economy.

Overall, the film industry in Missouri is thriving, and the state’s tax incentive program and diverse range of filming locations have helped attract filmmakers from all over the country. By continuing to invest in the film industry and provide resources and support for filmmakers, Missouri can continue to grow and establish itself as a major player in the film industry.

Career Opportunities in the Film Industry

The film industry is a highly competitive field that requires talent, creativity, and dedication. There are many different career paths within the film industry, and each requires a unique set of skills and qualifications.

One of the most common career paths in the film industry is filmmaking. Filmmakers are responsible for creating and producing films, from developing a script to editing the final product. Filmmakers may specialize in a particular genre, such as drama or comedy, or work in a specific role, such as director or producer.

Another common career path in the film industry is acting. Actors are responsible for portraying characters in films and must be able to bring emotion and depth to their performances. Actors may work in a variety of settings, from independent films to major Hollywood productions.

Other career paths in the film industry include writing, editing, cinematography, sound design, visual effects, and post-production. Each of these roles requires specialized skills and expertise, and many filmmakers work in multiple roles throughout their careers.

While the film industry can be highly competitive, there are many job opportunities for aspiring filmmakers. In addition to working on film productions, filmmakers may also work for advertising agencies, video production companies, or other organizations that require video content.

To succeed in the film industry, it’s important to have a strong portfolio that showcases your skills and experience. Many aspiring filmmakers start by creating short films or working on independent productions to build their portfolio and gain experience.

Networking is also critical in the film industry. Attending film festivals, industry events, and networking opportunities can help aspiring filmmakers connect with other professionals in the industry and learn about new job opportunities.

Overall, the film industry offers a variety of exciting and rewarding career opportunities for those with talent and dedication. By pursuing a career in the film industry and gaining the necessary skills and experience, aspiring filmmakers can turn their passion for film into a fulfilling and successful career.

The Importance of Film Education

While natural talent and passion can certainly be beneficial in the film industry, formal education can provide aspiring filmmakers with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.

Film education programs offer a range of courses and training in areas such as screenwriting, cinematography, editing, and sound design. These programs may also provide opportunities for students to work on film productions and build their portfolios.

One of the key benefits of film education is the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals in the industry. Many film education programs employ faculty members who have worked in the film industry and can provide valuable insights and advice.

In addition to providing practical skills and industry knowledge, film education can also help students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills. These skills are essential for success in the film industry, where teamwork and creativity are often required to bring a film to life.

Film education programs may also provide opportunities for students to network with other aspiring filmmakers and industry professionals. This can help students build valuable connections and increase their chances of finding job opportunities in the industry.

While film education can be costly, scholarships and financial aid are often available to help students offset the costs. Additionally, some film education programs offer online courses and resources, which can be more affordable and accessible for students who cannot attend in-person classes.

Overall, film education can be a valuable investment for aspiring filmmakers. By gaining practical skills and industry knowledge, developing critical thinking and collaboration skills, and building connections in the industry, film education can help students launch successful careers in the film industry.