Which Schools Offer Film Degrees in San Diego, CA?
Learn about film schools in San Diego. Get information about available degrees and admission requirements to make an informed decision about your education.
There are several 2- and 4- year schools in the San Diego, CA, area that offer degree programs in film. Read about undergraduate and graduate degree programs that are offered.
What You Need to Know
Associate's, bachelor's, and master's degree programs in film are available at 2- and 4-year schools in the San Diego area. Undergraduate programs typically require a high school diploma for consideration; graduate study applicants may have to submit test scores, letters of recommendation, and a work sample. Film school programs may offer you the chance for hands-on work through an internship. You may take classes in the theory and production of film; you may also be expected to complete exams, creative projects, or a final paper to graduate.
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Southern New Hampshire University
You have goals. Southern New Hampshire University can help you reach them. Whether you need a bachelor's degree to get into a career or want a master's degree to move up in your current career, SNHU has an online program for you.
University of Maryland Global Campus
University of Maryland Global Campus provides affordable, achievable, and flexible pathways to a college degree for adult learners. With over 90 degrees and certificates, UMGC is built to fit your schedule and goals.
University of North Carolina
The University of North Carolina offers a wide range of online programs designed for working adults. Earn your degree from a nationally recognized institution with flexible scheduling and strong academic support.
Arizona State University
Arizona State University offers more than 300 online degree programs, certificates and courses. ASU Online delivers the same rigorous academic programs as on campus, with the flexibility you need to succeed.
Associate Degree Programs in San Diego
Palomar College
Palomar's cinema program offers courses in film production and the history of film. Degree requirements include the completion of core courses, plus 6 units of electives, and you must pass a final exam. If you choose, you may take up to 2 special projects classes where you'll create a screenplay or short film.
- Program Name: Associate in Arts in Cinema
- Program Length: 2 years full-time
- Tuition and Fees: $1,338 per year for CA residents; $8,702 per year for non-residents (2018-2019)
- Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent (under 18 by special permission)
- School Type: 2-year public, 23,917 students (all undergraduate)
San Diego City College
San Diego City College's program focuses on the production aspect of film. Class subjects include lighting, staging, switch operation and motion picture production. As part of the communications program, you'll also take courses on speaking, voice and intercultural communication.
- Program Name: Associate in Science Communications - Video/Film
- Program Length: 2 years full-time
- Tuition and Fees: $1,144 per year for CA residents; $7,024 per year for non-residents (2018-2019)
- Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent (those without a high school diploma may be admitted on a provisional basis)
- School Type: 2-year public, 15,066 students (all undergraduate)
Bachelor's Degree Programs in San Diego
San Diego State University
San Diego State University's film program introduces you to the art of film with a focus on film aesthetics, history, theory and cultural significance. This program offers you the opportunity to participate in an internship at a film production company or television station. You can also gain practical experience at the school's drama and documentary production center.
- Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Television, Film, and New Media Production
- Program Length: 4 years full-time
- Tuition and Fees: $7,488 per year for CA residents; $19,340 per year for non-residents (2018-2019)
- Prerequisites: You must complete certain high school courses
- Requirements: You must meet the freshman CSU eligibility index, a calculation that includes your high school GPA and SAT or ACT scores
- School Type: 4-year public, 35,303 students (30,586 undergraduate)
Master's Degree Programs in San Diego
National University
National University's master's-level film program focuses on critical evaluation of American and international filmmakers. You'll need to complete 45 quarter units to earn a degree. Many of the program courses involve film theory and language. The program thesis is a scholarly paper revised for submission to a film publication or journal.
- Program Name: Master of Arts in Film Studies
- Program Length: 2 years full-time
- Tuition and Fees: $15,480 per year (2018-2019)
- Requirements: Admission considerations include test scores, academic record and interviews
- School Type: 4-year private not-for-profit, 16,930 students (7,735 undergraduate)
San Diego State University
San Diego State University's master's film program emphasizes a hands-on approach to film production. Much of the program curriculum is in your own hands, with the ability to choose from a variety of electives and special studies courses. The program takes 2-3 years to complete, but you have up to 6 years to finish the degree.
- Program Name: Master of Arts in Television, Film & New Media Production
- Program Length: 2-3 years full-time
- Tuition and Fees: $8,922 per year for CA residents; $18,426 per year for non-residents (2018-2019)
- Prerequisites: Bachelor's degree
- Requirements: Lists of influences and interests, three letters of recommendation, resume, sample reel and personal statement from student
- School Type: 4-year public, 35,303 students (30,586 undergraduate)
Students desiring to study film can earn their associate's, bachelor's, or master's degree from several different institutions in the San Diego, CA, area.
