Best Online Master’s in Film Degree Programs of 2024

Individuals who pursue an online master’s in film or film studies will engage in the theory and application of different media genres. Students learn how to approach films through a critical lens as well as explore the film industry from a business perspective. Classes touch on various topics, including lighting, storyboarding, scriptwriting, and creating your own film projects.

Aspiring film workers don’t need a master’s degree to be eligible for jobs in this industry. Still, it can give participants an advantage in their job search and increase their earning potential. An online master’s in film prepares graduates for film industry positions, doctoral work, or teaching opportunities at the community college level.

If attending full-time, participants can finish these 30- to 50-credit programs in two years or less. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for media and communication positions is $66,320.

Choose your area of study

Institutions use different naming conventions for their film-related graduate degrees, but they all fall under a Master of Arts (MA) or a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) umbrella. MA programs are humanities-driven and more focused on the practical application of knowledge. MFA degrees concentrate on a specific artistic discipline.

It’s also worth noting that many programs will allow you to select a concentration and focus your studies on a particular niche in this field, such as producing, screenwriting, or motion media design. If you already know what you would like to do after you graduate, look for programs that closely match these career goals.

Research schools and programs

You should only apply to institutions that have been approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. These organizations evaluate schools to ensure they provide students with a high-quality education. Those who attend a school that isn’t regionally accredited may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed.

Ideally, your master’s in film program will also be accredited by a respected industry group like the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). This programmatic accrediting organization has particularly high standards for art education.

After confirming that each school meets basic accreditation standards, consider the following:

• What support services do online students have access to? Online students should receive similar benefits and support services as traditional on-campus students. Seek programs where online attendees receive free tutoring, counseling, academic advising, student software discounts, and reliable tech support.
• Does the program include an internship or hands-on experience? Many programs integrate practical applications into the coursework. Some film degrees require a thesis component and encourage students to graduate with a portfolio of promising work.

To learn more about any schools that you’re interested in, you can visit the school’s website, contact an admissions counselor, follow the school on social media, or attend an in-person or virtual open house.

Prepare for tests and applications

Application requirements vary by school and program. Most programs request a portfolio of your work or some film-related assignment to review alongside your application materials. Few programs require standardized testing.

Because of the specialized nature of this field, graduate film degree programs can be competitive and have a limited number of spots available. To submit your application by the deadline, ensure you’ve allowed ample time to pull together transcripts, recommendation letters, a personal statement, and any other materials that may be required.

Before submitting an application, always contact an admissions counselor to ensure you have the most accurate information regarding requirements and deadlines.

Select your program

Upon receiving your acceptance letters, you’ll need to decide on which program to attend (and commit to the associated enrollment fee).

Before making your final decision, review your needs and goals again. Do you plan to attend school full-time or part-time? Do you want your program to be as online as possible, or are you fine with a hybrid program that has a fair amount of in-person requirements? Some programs offer asynchronous courses, which can be completed at your own pace, while others only offer synchronous courses, which involve remotely attending lectures and completing assignments at the same time as other students — which of these two online learning formats do you prefer? Your school should accommodate your scheduling needs and learning preferences.

Determine how you’ll pay for your degree

Like any graduate degree, the tuition for an online master’s in film is a financial commitment. Speak early and often to your selected school’s office of financial aid; these individuals can help you identify funding opportunities and a payment plan that works for you.

Graduate school scholarships and assistantships are competitive but worth applying for nonetheless. Some programs provide military discounts or credit for previous professional experience. All attendees should complete the FAFSA; while you might not want to take out loans, it’s helpful to determine the federal funding options for which you’re eligible. Those who already work in the field should see if their employer offers tuition assistance benefits as well.