Documentary Filmmaking Schools?

I'm really interested in documentary filmmaking and want to find a school with a strong program. Can anyone recommend any schools known for their documentary filmmaking programs or courses?

Certainly! There are several schools that are well regarded for their documentary filmmaking programs and courses. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:

1. University of Southern California (USC) — USC's School of Cinematic Arts is renowned for its film studies and production programs. Within the school, the Documentary Filmmaking Program offers students the opportunity to learn hands-on skills and understanding of the documentary filmmaking process. Their courses cover writing, producing, directing, and editing documentary films.

2. New York University (NYU) — Tisch School of the Arts at NYU is another prestigious institution known for its film and television programs. They offer a Documentary Filmmaking Concentration within the undergraduate Film and Television program. Students have the opportunity to work on their documentary projects and collaborate closely with faculty who are also industry professionals.

3. Stanford University — The MFA Program in Documentary Film and Video at Stanford is an impressive program and highly regarded. Stanford focuses on nurturing documentary filmmakers who have an artistic, social, and political voice. Note that the program at Stanford is specifically an MFA program designed for graduate students.

4. University of California, Berkeley — The Graduate School of Journalism at UC Berkeley offers a documentary filmmaking program. Students work closely with faculty members and industry professionals, learning all aspects of documentary production. This program, too, is focused on graduate students (those pursuing a Master's degree in Journalism).

5. Emerson College — Offering a BFA in Film Production, Emerson College provides students with many opportunities to create documentaries or learn documentary filmmaking skills through courses and practical projects. Moreover, Emerson has a strong commitment to civic engagement and social justice, making it a great place to explore documentary filmmaking.

These schools represent just a few examples of institutions with strong documentary filmmaking programs or courses. Make sure to research each school's curriculum, faculty, and resources to find the best fit for you and your interests in documentary filmmaking. Good luck on your search!