Is a Film Degree Worth It? Examining the Pros and Cons

As a cinephile, the idea of studying film at university may seem incredibly appealing. But is majoring in film actually worth the investment? This debate has only grown more heated as tuition rates have skyrocketed.

In this article, we’ll dive into the pros and cons of pursuing a film degree. I’ll provide perspective on whether the costs, both financial and otherwise, are justified by the potential career benefits. By weighing all the factors, you can make an informed decision about this path.

Let’s roll the tape on the great film school debate!

The Allure of Studying Movies

First, it’s worth reflecting on why a film degree holds such strong appeal for many. There are several understandable reasons:

• Passion for film – For cinephiles, studying film seems like a dream come true. Surrounded by people who share your obsession!

• Hands-on experience – Film programs offer access to equipment and opportunities to make movies you couldn’t otherwise.

• Industry connections – Film school provides networking with professors and guest speakers that can lead to jobs

• Structured learning – A film program provides guidance through all aspects of moviemaking rather than having to self-teach.

Given these benefits, it’s easy to see the temptation of film school, especially for those seeking a clear path into the industry. But these factors are only one side of the equation.

The Major Investment of Film School

Before committing, it’s essential to tally up the major costs associated with earning a film degree

• Tuition – The price tag for a film degree can range from $80,000 to over $200,000. And rising every year.

• Equipment fees – You may need to pay for access to cameras, lights, and other gear. This can add up to thousands per semester.

• Opportunity cost – The years spent in school are years not spent building real world experience and connections.

• No guarantee of employment – A film degree alone is no assurance of getting a job after graduation. The field is highly competitive.

That’s a huge amount of time, money, and effort to invest without a definite return. This makes thoughtfully weighing the pros against the cons so important.

The Benefits of Earning a Film Degree

Despite the costs, film school can provide some concrete benefits:

Portfolio Development

Through student films and class projects, you’ll develop a rich portfolio showing your skills in directing, editing, cinematography, and more. This body of work is invaluable when applying for film jobs after graduation.

Technical Skills

Film programs provide access to professional equipment and software. You’ll gain hands-on training in camerawork, lighting, editing, and visual effects. Hard skills that are essential for film work.

Industry Connections

Through internships, guest lecturers, and professors, film school offers networking opportunities. These contacts can help open doors to jobs after you graduate.

Collaborators and Crew

Fellow students make ideal collaborators and crew members for your projects during school and into your career. Build lifelong creative relationships.

Structure and Guidance

Classes give structure on all the key filmmaking fundamentals from pre-production through distribution. Mentors provide feedback to help you improve as a storyteller.

These benefits are real and tangible. But are they enough to justify the major investment? Let’s look at some opposing viewpoints.

The Case Against Film School

Criticism of film degrees stems from their high cost coupled with no guarantees of employment. Common arguments include:

• Many successful filmmakers never went to film school, like Quentin Tarantino, Robert Rodriguez, and Paul Thomas Anderson.

• On-the-job experience and self-teaching may provide more relevant, practical learning than classrooms.

• Short-term programs, online classes, and production internships offer cheaper alternatives to learn skills.

• You can make connections and find collaborators through film associations, networking events, or just creating your own projects.

• Film programs don’t necessarily foster creativity – they teach standard Hollywood models.

• Tuition for film degrees has become exorbitant compared to earning potential in film roles.

These criticisms all point to a key insight – real world experience trumps a degree. Weighing cost against benefit makes many see film school as an unnecessary investment.

Key Factors to Consider About a Film Major

With compelling points on both sides of the debate, how should prospective students analyze whether it makes sense for them? Here are key factors to think over:

Your financial situation – Can you manage the tuition or qualify for robust scholarships and aid? Don’t take on massive debt without a plan to pay it off.

Your career goals – Do you hope to work for major studios where credentials may hold more weight? Or are you an indie filmmaker who values real world experience over academics?

Your skills and network – Do you already have filmmaking skills you’ve built on your own? Or existing industry connections through family/friends/previous jobs?

Your commitment level – Be honest if your passion for film is fleeting. The degree only pays off if you actively work in the industry after.

Your learning style – Do you thrive being self-taught? Or do you benefit more from structured classroom environments with feedback?

There’s no one size fits all answer. The context of your specific situation shapes whether pursuing this major aligns with your dreams and talents or sets you up for frustration.

Success Doesn’t Require Film School

When weighing your options, recognize that there are plenty of paths to have a thriving career in film without a degree. Consider directors like:

• Steven Spielberg – Dropped out of California State to take an unpaid internship with Universal Studios.

• David Fincher – Worked in the effects department at ILM while self-educating before directing.

• Ryan Coogler – Gained hands-on experience making short films and networking in the Bay Area film scene.

• Christopher Nolan – Made indie films while studying English, not film, at college.

Their success stories prove formal film education is not a prerequisite for excellence. Practical experience, perseverance, and building a network can get you far.

Final Questions to Ask Yourself

Before committing years of your life and taking on debt, reflect honestly on questions like:

• Are you willing to fully dedicate yourself to pursuing a film career, not just dabbling?

• Are you ready to work tirelessly to stand out from the crowd after graduation?

• Do you have the passion and persistence to keep pushing ahead through constant rejection and barriers?

Ultimately, success in the film industry requires determination that no school can teach you. Do your research, run the numbers, know the risks – and trust your instincts on which path feels right.

There is no one right answer when evaluating if a film degree is worthwhile. Take an unbiased look at the pros and cons and how they apply specifically to your situation. Calmly analyze your options before rolling the dice.

Don’t let prestige or pressure sway you. The right choice is the one that equips you with skills, avoids burdensome debt, and sets you up to achieve your dreams. Let your creativity guide you towards opportunities to gain practical experience and connections.

Trust your gut. And always keep pursuing your filmmaking passion – whether in school or out in the streets!