Should You Go to Film School? Exploring the Pros, Cons, and Alternatives

The Appeal of Film School: Why People Choose It

Film school provides a structured learning environment where students gain hands-on experience with professional-grade equipment, receive guidance from industry professionals, and build a network of peers and mentors. Here are some key reasons people opt for film school:

1. Structured Learning and Curriculum

Film schools offer a comprehensive curriculum that covers cinematography, directing, screenwriting, editing, sound design, and production management. If you prefer guided learning with step-by-step instruction, a film degree can provide a solid foundation.

2. Access to Equipment and Facilities

Many film schools have high-end cameras, lighting gear, editing suites, and sound studios—resources that may be expensive or difficult to access independently. Using industry-standard equipment early on can give students a technical edge.

3. Industry Connections and Networking

Film schools often have strong ties to the industry, offering students opportunities to meet professionals, secure internships, and collaborate on projects. Connections made at film school can lead to future job opportunities.

4. Credibility and Credentials

While not essential, having a film degree can add credibility, particularly when applying for traditional jobs in broadcasting, corporate video production, or film studios that favour formal education.

The Downsides of Film School: Is It Worth the Cost?

While film school has its advantages, it also comes with significant drawbacks:

1. High Cost and Potential Debt

Tuition fees for film schools can be expensive, sometimes reaching tens of thousands of pounds. Many graduates leave with substantial debt, making it difficult to invest in their own film projects.

2. No Guaranteed Success

Unlike fields such as law or medicine, a film degree does not guarantee a job in the industry. Success in filmmaking is often based on experience, portfolio, and networking rather than formal education.

3. Learning Can Be Self-Taught

With the rise of online resources, aspiring filmmakers can now learn everything from cinematography to editing through platforms like YouTube, Skillshare, and MasterClass, often at a fraction of the cost.

4. Industry Is Experience-Driven

Many successful filmmakers never attended film school. The industry prioritises practical experience, portfolio quality, and networking over academic qualifications.

Alternatives to Film School

If you decide against film school, there are other ways to gain filmmaking skills and industry connections:

1. The Polarose Mastery Academy (PMA) – Learn by Doing

One of the best ways to break into the film industry is through hands-on experience, and that’s exactly what the Polarose Mastery Academy (PMA) offers. The PMA is designed for aspiring filmmakers, cinematographers, and videographers who want to gain real-world experience on professional film sets while learning directly from industry experts.

At The PMA, students:

• Work on live film projects instead of just theory-based learning.

• Build a professional portfolio with real-world projects.

• Gain mentorship from experienced filmmakers.

• Learn practical skills in cinematography, directing, editing, and production.

• Network with industry professionals and potential collaborators.

For those who prefer learning through experience rather than classrooms, the PMA is a more affordable and effective alternative to traditional film school.

2. Learning Through Online Courses and Tutorials

Platforms like YouTube, Udemy, Coursera, and MZed offer extensive courses on filmmaking, covering everything from cinematography to colour grading. Some of these courses are taught by industry professionals at a fraction of the cost of film school.

3. On-Set Experience and Internships

Working as a production assistant (PA) on professional film sets provides first-hand experience in how a film production operates. Many filmmakers start as assistants and work their way up by learning on the job.

4. Self-Producing and Independent Filmmaking

With affordable high-quality cameras and editing software available, aspiring filmmakers can create their own short films, music videos, and documentaries without formal training. Learning by doing is often the best way to develop skills.

5. Networking and Mentorship

Attending film festivals, joining online filmmaking communities, and seeking mentorship from experienced filmmakers can provide invaluable insights and career opportunities.

6. Film Workshops and Short Courses

Short-term workshops and intensive courses from institutions like the National Film and Television School (NFTS) in the UK or BAFTA Guru can provide hands-on experience without the long-term financial commitment of a degree.

Final Thoughts: Should You Go to Film School?

The decision depends on your learning style, financial situation, and career goals. If you thrive in structured education, have the resources to afford it, and value formal industry connections, film school may be a good choice. However, if you are self-motivated, prefer hands-on learning, and want to avoid debt, alternatives such as the Polarose Mastery Academy (PMA), self-learning, and on-set experience may be a better fit.

Ultimately, the best way to succeed in the film industry is through continuous learning, building a strong portfolio, and networking—regardless of whether you attend film school or not.

Interested in Learning Filmmaking Through Real-World Experience?

Join the Polarose Mastery Academy (PMA) and start your journey in the industry today! Get hands-on experience, mentorship, and portfolio-building opportunities without the high cost of film school. Enquire now!