Film School Programs in Denver, Colorado

Getting a Film School Degree in Denver, Colorado

Denver, Colorado, offers aspiring filmmakers a unique opportunity to study and grow in a city with a burgeoning film scene. A Film School Degree provides the technical skills, creative knowledge, and professional connections needed to succeed in the film and television industries. Whether you aim to become a director, cinematographer, screenwriter, or producer, Denver’s educational institutions and resources can help you achieve your goals.

Film education paths range from undergraduate programs, such as Associate and Bachelor’s degrees, to advanced graduate degrees like the Master of Fine Arts. Additionally, specialized certifications and workshops cater to those seeking focused training in specific areas of filmmaking.

About Denver, Colorado

Denver, also known as the Mile High City, is Colorado’s capital and cultural hub. Nestled against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, the city is famous for its vibrant arts scene, historic landmarks like Union Station, and neighborhoods such as RiNo (River North Art District) and LoDo (Lower Downtown).

The city is making strides in the film industry, with notable productions such as Mork & Mindy and Our Souls at Night filmed in Colorado. Denver’s commitment to fostering the arts is evident through organizations like the Colorado Office of Film, Television, and Media and the City and County of Denver Film Commission, which support local productions and provide resources for filmmakers.

Film School Programs in Denver, Colorado

Denver is home to several reputable institutions offering Film School programs. Below are three prominent options:

  1. Colorado Film School (Aurora, CO)

    • Program: Associate of Applied Science in Film and Video Production, Certificate in Film and Video Production
    • Description: Colorado Film School provides hands-on training in directing, cinematography, editing, and screenwriting. Located in Aurora, just 15 minutes from downtown Denver, this school is known for its industry connections and state-of-the-art facilities.
    • Website: Colorado Film School

  2. University of Denver – Department of Media, Film & Journalism Studies (Denver, CO)

    • Program: Bachelor of Arts in Film Studies and Production, Master of Arts in Film Studies
    • Description: The University of Denver offers a comprehensive curriculum emphasizing media culture, storytelling, and professional internships. The program is perfect for students looking to combine academic study with practical experience.
    • Website: University of Denver

  3. University of Colorado Denver – Department of Film & Television (Denver, CO)

    • Program: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film and Television
    • Description: This cohort-based program focuses on hands-on training in all aspects of film production, including directing, editing, and screenwriting. The University of Colorado Denver is located in the heart of downtown Denver, offering students access to the city’s creative community.
    • Website: CU Denver Film & Television

For those willing to travel, additional programs are available in neighboring cities, such as the University of Colorado Boulder, located approximately 30 miles from Denver.

Film Industry Opportunities in Denver

Denver’s film industry is growing, with opportunities for students and professionals to get involved in production companies and creative organizations. Below are some notable organizations in the area:

  1. Colorado Film and Video Association (CFVA)

    • Purpose: Supports film and video professionals in Colorado through networking, workshops, and advocacy.
    • Website: CFVA

  2. Denver Film Society

    • Purpose: Hosts the Denver Film Festival and provides educational programs for filmmakers.
    • Website: Denver Film

  3. Colorado Office of Film, Television, and Media

    • Purpose: Promotes Colorado as a filming location and supports local productions.
    • Website: Office of Film

Prerequisites for Film School Programs

Admission requirements for Film School programs in Denver generally include:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent
  • Minimum GPA of 2.5
  • Submission of SAT or ACT scores (varies by school)
  • A creative portfolio or reel showcasing your work (required for some programs)
  • Completion of an application form and, in some cases, an interview

Film School Degree Requirements in Colorado

Film School Degree requirements in Colorado vary by program and institution but typically include:

  • Core courses in film history, theory, and production techniques
  • Specialized coursework in areas such as directing, screenwriting, or cinematography
  • Completion of a final project or internship

Accredited programs ensure a high-quality education. Accreditation bodies such as the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) and the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) oversee the standards of these programs. For more information on degree requirements, visit the Colorado Department of Higher Education.

Get Started Today

Denver, Colorado, is an excellent place to pursue a Film School Degree, offering a combination of top-tier education, a supportive creative community, and access to growing film industry opportunities. Start your journey by researching the schools listed above and reaching out to their admissions offices to learn more. Take the first step toward your filmmaking career today!