Top 10 Illinois Film Schools for Filmmakers to Consider

Illinois has the type of healthy production and film industry that any aspiring filmmakers would want a piece of. For the best Illinois film schools, check out our list to see if you find one that is the right fit for you. These schools below offer great communities for aspiring Illinois filmmakers as well as hands-on experience that will get them ready for their career in the Illinois industry. These schools offer anything from traditional studies to intensive programs, as well as small and large colleges and universities with diverse film programs.

As an active member of the Illinois video production community, we know there are some difficulties along the way, but these schools will get you ready for top careers in Illinois film production, visual arts, and even photography. As you study the main principles behind filming, editing and production, you’ll put yourself closer to the career path you want in major film companies, news studios, and advertising agencies or as you pursue self-employment.”

1. Northwestern University

Northwestern University School of Communication is a place where those interested in careers in radio, television, and film can earn degrees in a number of practices. Whether you want to get a major in radio and film or are looking for a graduate degree in Screen Cultures, there are options for every kind of student. As one of the top Illinois film schools, you’ll be well-connected for a successful career post-studies when you choose Northwestern.

Phone Number:

(847) 467-7492

Location:

70 Arts Circle Drive
Evanston, IL 60208

2. University of Chicago

As it stands, the University of Chicago already has a reputation for being a top school but add Cinema and Media Studies to the list as well as the Film Studies Center, and you have one of the best options available for students wanting an in-depth education on all things related to film. Innovative workshops, programs designed around the history, theory, and culture of film, and well-connected faculty makes this a school to consider. With a variety of programs available, including undergraduate and graduate options, you’ll be able to further you film education at this top option.

Phone Number:

(773) 702-2787

Location:

915 E 60th St.
Chicago, IL 60637

3. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Variety is the name of the game at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. With options for certificates in media production to Bachelor’s, there are options for the student who wants to be properly prepared for a career in anything from transmedia storytelling, filmmaking, and more. From studies in pop-culture to film history, you’ll learn all you need to know for a future with a strong foundation in everything related to media and film.

Phone Number:

(217) 333-2350

Location:

 119 Gregory Hall, 810 S. Wright St.

Urbana, IL 61801 

4. University of Illinois at Chicago

UIC offers a unique Moving Image Arts minor program so students can add to any major they wish to pursue, within the realm of film, media,  and television. The School of LCSL also provides a hands-on approach to learning about film, television, and media theory and history. If you aren’t yet ready for a four-year degree program but want to get started on learning about film, this could be the right program for you.

Phone Number:

(312) 996-5218

Location:

601 S. Morgan St., 1722 UH

Chicago, IL 60607

5. DePaul: School of Cinematic Arts

From cinema to animation, you can sink your teeth into an education based around your career choices at DePaul. Not only will you receive top-notch instruction from film greats but you’ll also get hands-on experience thanks to the large production facility space and equipment. With programs for BA and BFA in both animation and film and television, you can pursue your career path following in the steps of alumni who have gone on to achieve great things after studying at DePaul.

Phone Number:

(312) 362-8381

Location:

243 South Wabash Avenue
Chicago, IL 60604

6. Columbia College Chicago

With many great Illinois film schools to choose from, it can be difficult to choose amongst the greats, but CCC offers great programs for Cinema and Television Arts. With majors in acting, communication, creative writing and film and television and graduate options for Cinema and Television Directing, you’ll find yourself with plenty of options to choose from that can lead you to a successful career in the film industry. In fact, many CCC alumni have gone on to jobs in Hollywood and beyond, making it a highly attractive option for many.

Phone Number:

(312) 369-1000

Location:

600 S Michigan Ave

Chicago, IL 60605

7. Southern Illinois University

In the department of cinema and photography at SIU, students have the opportunity to pursue an interdisciplinary media education, with options for specializing in a major with three specializations of Cinema, Media Arts, and Photography. From the foundation of history and theory of cinema to the hands-on experience you’ll get at the SIU, you’ll be fully prepared for your career when graduating from this top school. From alumni that have gone on to succeed in international cinema to Academy-award nominees, SIU is a place that can position you for the right job.

Phone Number:

(618) 536-7555

Location:

1100 Lincoln Drive

Carbondale IL, 62901

8. Judson University

What kind of film or media career are you looking for? Judson University has options that can help you on your path, including everything from a Media Writing Major to a Film and Video Major, as well as Media Business. As a Christian university, it offers one of the most unique opportunities in the state for those who want to receive a comprehensive and intensive experience at one of the best Christian Illinois films schools.

Phone Number:

(847) 628-2500

Location:

1151 North State Street
Elgin, IL 60123

9. School of Art Institute of Chicago

If you want to study at a school that is well-known for its alumni and especially its courses, the SAIC offers both undergraduate programs and graduate options for those ready to steady anything from film to animation, video and media. Not only that, but SAIC is well-connected with many faculty members well-known in the local film scene. You’ll also be positioned for festival participation and get your foot in the door for jobs in the Chicago film industry when you graduate from SAIC, making it a great option for those who want to get the real life experience that makes a difference.

Phone Number:

(312) 629-6100

Location: 

36 S. Wabash Ave.
Chicago, IL 60603

10. Lewis University

Offering a plethora of programs, there are a variety of B.A programs available ranging from advertising to interactive media, and TV broadcasting. Degrees from Lewis University allow you the flexibility for a career path in a variety of jobs pertaining to the film, television, and media industries so that when you leave the school, you’ll be well-positioned for the job of your dreams. As one of the top Illinois film schools, and a variety of programs available, it’s a versatile option to consider for your path towards becoming a film and media professional.

Phone Number:

(815) 838-0500

Location:

One University Parkway
Romeoville, IL 60446-2200

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