Best Online Master’s in Film Programs

Success in the film industry requires both creativity and strong technical skills. Many positions rely on professionals with specialized knowledge of film equipment or editing platforms. Pursuing a degree helps learners hone their skills and develop an understanding of the history, culture, politics, and philosophies behind successful films.

Our guide ranks the best online master’s in film programs and compiles essential information to help you compare programs and select the degree that best aligns with your career goals. For even more information on film programs, consult our master’s in film program guide.

The film industry boasts global revenues of over $100 billion. The TV and film industry supports more than two million jobs in the U.S., and the motion picture and sound recording industry alone employs more than 456,000 people.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Launching a successful career in film typically requires at least some college education. Pursuing an online master’s in film isn’t necessary to land your dream job, but earning a degree may set you apart from other candidates and increase your earning potential. According to PayScale, professionals with a master’s earn an average salary of $66,870, versus $58,020 for their counterparts with only a bachelor’s degree.

An online master’s in film typically consists of 30-60 credits and takes about two years to complete. Exact details vary by program, but most master’s programs include an internship, practicum, or thesis requirement. Practicums and internships give students the opportunity to gain professional experience working with a film-related company or organization. A thesis involves an extensive research project that usually culminates in a presentation.

In addition to core coursework, some schools offer concentration options that give students the ability to align the degree to their specific career goals. Common options include screenwriting, film studies, and production.

Overall, film degrees cater to students with exceptional technical skills using a variety of equipment, such as cameras, microphones, lighting rigs, and editing tools. An online master’s in film program develops these essential skills, but students must possess at least some natural ability for creativity, writing, and communication.

Working in this field also requires passion and a willingness to work long hours against tight deadlines.

Exact admission requirements for an online master’s in film vary by program. In most cases, prospective students must possess a bachelor’s degree and at least some professional experience. Schools typically also require GRE scores, a resume, transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.

Most applications require a fee, so make sure you meet qualifications before applying. For more information, read our graduate admissions guide.

A master’s in film program builds knowledge of the techniques, history, and philosophies of film. Many programs consist of advanced-level courses in key areas like editing, writing, and storyboarding. Curricula vary by program and concentration, but many programs offer similar courses. The following list details five common courses.

Film careers typically require professionals to possess highly specialized skills in writing, producing, and/or video or audio editing.

The Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation projects the highest job growth in the field for positions like producer, audio and video technician, director, and editor. Similarly, the BLS projects 18% growth for film and video editors and camera operators between 2019 and 2029.

Consult our guide to learn more about careers in film.

It depends. Working in the entertainment industry offers exciting opportunities, but earning a master’s degree in film requires a significant investment of time and money. The decision to pursue a graduate degree depends on your goals. Before making a final decision, research your career path to ensure the investment in a master’s degree will generate a positive return.

Launching a career in film doesn’t necessarily require a master’s degree. Some positions may even prefer candidates with several years of professional experience versus a graduate degree. However, a master’s degree typically qualifies you for career advancement opportunities and roles like postsecondary teacher, art director, and executive.

People with a passion for art and storytelling with strong visual, communication, editing, and writing skills generally succeed in the film industry. The industry offers a variety of jobs, but the competition tends to be fierce. However, the presence of alternatives to traditional film and television, like streaming services and independent film agencies, should create new opportunities for film professionals.

Professionals with a master’s in film earn an average salary of $67,040, according to PayScale. Earning potential varies based on experience, education, location, and position. According to the BLS, film and video editors earn a median annual wage of $59,810. However, directors, actors, and multimedia artists can earn much higher salaries.

The highest earners in the field are likely film or TV producers and film directors. According to PayScale, all of these professionals earn average annual salaries near $70,000. However, highly successful directors and producers can earn much more.