Staci DumoskiUPDATED: October 23, 2023
In their annual ranking of the top 50 film schools in the United States, TheWrap has listed Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts at No. 4 for the fourth year in a row.
In the article published on Oct. 23, editors noted the university’s commitment to practicality, including a revamped MA program that will reduce total tuition by as much as $50K per student, increased funding for student films and a dedicated internship program that has a goal of placing every student in an internship by the end of their second year.
For the third year in a row, Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts has ranked at No. 4 on The Hollywood Reporter’s list of best film schools in the country.
Dodge College has maintained its No. 4 position since first moving into the top 5 in 2021, confirming its strong position within the industry.
“Everyone who visits Dodge knows there is something unique about this film school,” said Stephen Galloway, dean of Dodge College. “There’s a warmth, a camaraderie, a sense of all being together in a village of filmmakers. That’s always been our ethos, and it’s what’s lifting us to the top of all the film school rankings.”
The Hollywood Reporter points to Chapman University’s ability to offer students intimate workshops and discussions with the industry’s award-winning actors, directors, and screenwriters: “Just an hour’s drive from Hollywood, Chapman’s Dodge College takes advantage of the proximity by bringing in A-list talent, including the likes of Brendan Fraser, Michelle Yeoh and Colin Ferrell, to speak to students.”
Related: Dodge College Master Classes Connect Students to the Film Industry
The ranking article also highlights Chapman alumni Matt and Ross Duffer ’07 (“Stranger Things”) and Justin Simien ’05 (“Dear White People”), and shares the statement from alumni “Smile” writer-director Parker Finn ’11: “Chapman gave me the space, tools and mentorship to hone my craft.”
Dodge has a commitment to spending $750,000 a year in tech updates and received a $2.5 million anonymous gift in May supporting an Innovation Hub at the film school.
Film programs at the American Film Institute, USC and NYU in New York City are the only film schools ranked ahead of Chapman, which The Wrap also ranks at No. 4 in the nation.
