Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Filmmaking Schools in Kansas City, Lawrence, Olathe, Overland Park, Topeka, and Wichita.
Considering a career in filmmaking? Discover the top Filmmaking Schools in Kansas that can help you turn your passion into profession.
This article covers standout programs that offer hands-on experience, industry connections, and state-of-the-art facilities.
Learn what sets these schools apart and find the best fit for your creative journey.
Kansas City Art Institute – Filmmaking Program
For those interested in Filmmaking Schools in Kansas, the Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI) Filmmaking Program presents an excellent opportunity. This program encourages students to explore their unique storytelling voice through a hybrid curriculum that combines documentary, poetic, and character-driven elements.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Courses include Intro to Filmmaking, History of the Moving Image, and Intermediate Filmmaking.
- High-End Equipment: Access to top-notch equipment for cinematography, sound recording, video editing, and motion graphics.
- Professional Experience: The AKCESS CoLab program offers juniors and seniors professional experience in the industry.
- Expert Faculty: Faculty members are established artists, designers, and scholars who enrich the learning experience.
Career Opportunities
Graduates from KCAI can pursue diverse roles such as Directors, Film Editors, and Cinematographers. The program not only hones technical skills but also empowers students with a deep understanding of the cinematic arts.
Johnson County Community College – Film and Media Studies
The Johnson County Community College (JCCC) Film and Media Studies program is a valuable choice among Filmmaking Schools in Kansas. It provides an extensive focus on both cinematography and video editing.
Key Highlights:
- Diverse Curriculum: Encompasses fine arts, photography, digital imaging, journalism, recording arts, animation, art history, and theatre.
- Hands-On Experience: Active participation in gallery exhibitions and film festivals.
- Scholarships and Financial Aid: Offers comprehensive scholarship opportunities.
- Transferable Credits: Courses that can be transferred to renowned institutions like Kansas City Art Institute and Kansas State University.
Advanced Learning Opportunities
JCCC frequently hosts visiting artist lectures, adding further depth to the student experience. The program is guided by expert professors who ensure practical learning applications.
Film Connection – Filmmaking Program
The Film Connection Filmmaking Program located in Kansas City stands out with its mentorship-based learning model, offering a distinct approach among Filmmaking Schools in Kansas.
Standout Elements:
- Mentorship by Industry Professionals: Learn directly from experienced professionals in real-world settings.
- Practical Learning: Students collaborate on actual projects, covering scriptwriting, cinematography, and editing.
- Cost-Efficient: More affordable than traditional universities and includes remote-learning options.
- Real-World Experience: Offers hands-on opportunities that traditional classroom settings may lack.
Networking and Career Preparation
The program’s emphasis on building professional networks and industry-standard skills ensures that students are well-prepared for the competitive filmmaking industry.
The University of Kansas – Film & Media Studies Program
The University of Kansas (KU) Film & Media Studies program is another top contender among Filmmaking Schools in Kansas, providing an enriching combination of theoretical and practical education to over 350 students.
Program Highlights:
- Extensive Resources: A soundstage, studio, lab space, and $1.8 million in production equipment.
- Internships and Clubs: Engaging in internships and collaborative projects while being active in student film clubs.
- Renowned Faculty: Faculty members contribute significantly to the industry via research and recognized production work.
- Diverse Curriculum: Offers courses that build a solid foundation in both analytical and hands-on filmmaking aspects.
Student Success Stories
Graduates like Chloe Burns have leveraged their education to succeed in the industry, exemplifying the program’s effectiveness despite external challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
The University of Missouri-Kansas City – Bachelor of Arts in Film and Media Arts
The University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) Bachelor of Arts in Film and Media Arts focuses on providing a thorough education in both film production and studies, standing as an influential program among Filmmaking Schools in Kansas.
Key Program Features:
- Diverse Curriculum: Courses include screenwriting, cinematography, lighting, audio recording, editing, and sound design.
- Independent-Artist Filmmaking Model: Small-crew approach allowing students to experience all phases of production.
- Professional Practices: Emphasis on creative development and industry-best practices.
- Comprehensive Credit Hours: Requires 45 credit hours, ensuring a well-rounded education.
Preparing for the Industry
UMKC’s program equips students with a broad portfolio of original work, preparing them to successfully enter the competitive film industry.
Choosing the right institution among Filmmaking Schools in Kansas depends on various factors including curriculum, faculty expertise, and available resources. Investigate these top programs to find the best fit for your filmmaking aspirations.
Kansas State University – Film Studies Certificate
The Kansas State University Film Studies Certificate is a valuable credential for those exploring Filmmaking Schools in Kansas. This program lays a solid foundation for understanding the art and technique of filmmaking.
Key Features:
- Visual Literacy: Students gain essential skills in interpreting and creating visual content.
- Film Analysis: Comprehensive courses on film analysis help students understand various filmmaking techniques and narrative styles.
- Elective Variety: Courses include Research Methods in Digital Ethnography and Fiction into Film.
- Multidisciplinary Guidance: Advisors from departments such as Art, English, and Media ensure a well-rounded education.
Career Preparation
This certificate prepares students for diverse careers such as industrial and commercial filmmaking, advertising, and secondary education in film studies.
Wichita State University – Bachelor of Applied Arts in Media Arts: Filmmaking
For a robust education in media arts, consider the Wichita State University Bachelor of Applied Arts in Media Arts: Filmmaking. This program is designed to blend creativity with technical skills in an effective learning environment.
Program Highlights:
- Comprehensive Credit Hours: A requirement of 120 credit hours ensures an extensive educational experience.
- Core Courses: Courses cover key areas such as Acting for Digital Arts, Animation, and Filmmaking.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access to Shocker Studios, a 35,000-square-foot professional production space.
- Hands-On Learning: Emphasis on practical, applied experiences to prepare students for the industry.
Industry Connections
Wichita State University’s strong ties with employers provide students with valuable career opportunities in filmmaking, video game design, and the recording industry.
University of Kansas – Department of Film and Media Studies
The University of Kansas Department of Film and Media Studies offers a detailed program focusing on the critical and analytical study of film and media. This department stands out among Filmmaking Schools in Kansas for its rigorous academic approach.
Program Features:
- Film Aesthetics: Deep dive into film aesthetics, with courses exploring global cinema, such as Japanese and Latin American films.
- Critical Thinking: Emphasizes the importance of critical analysis in understanding cinematic language.
- Practical Experience: Students have multiple opportunities for internships and collaborative projects.
- Experienced Faculty: The faculty’s expertise in film theory and production ensures high-quality education.
Academic Excellence
While the focus is on film and media studies, students seeking production experience may need supplemental courses to achieve their career goals.
How to Choose the Best Filmmaking School in Kansas
Selecting the right filmmaking school is crucial. Consider the following factors to make an informed decision:
- Curriculum Fit: Ensure the curriculum aligns with your interests and career goals. A program that covers both technical and creative aspects of filmmaking is ideal.
- Faculty Expertise: Look for experienced faculty members with a background in the industry. Their knowledge can provide valuable insights and mentorship.
- Facilities and Equipment: Access to advanced equipment and state-of-the-art facilities can enhance your learning experience.
- Internship Opportunities: Internships provide practical experience and networking opportunities. Check if the school has strong industry connections.
- Alumni Success: Alumni success stories can indicate the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for careers in filmmaking.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Evaluate the cost of the program, including tuition and additional fees. Explore scholarships and financial aid options to make it affordable.
- Location: Consider the school’s location and its proximity to film industry hubs, which can provide additional opportunities for networking and internships.
By thoroughly evaluating these factors, you can choose a filmmaking school that best suits your aspirations and needs.
Filmmaking Schools By State
Final Thoughts on Filmmaking Schools in Kansas
Exploring filmmaking schools in Kansas can set you on a path to a rewarding career in the film industry. Each of the mentioned programs offers unique strengths, from hands-on experience to comprehensive film analysis and creative development.
Take the time to assess your personal and professional goals. Then, choose the program that aligns with them best. Whether you’re aiming to become a director, editor, or cinematographer, Kansas has a wealth of educational opportunities to help you succeed.