The Town with Matthew Belloni Is Film School Still Worth It? With a Top Dean.
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Dec 5, 2025 In this engaging discussion, Stephen Galloway, Dean of Chapman University's Dodge College of Film and Media Arts and former Hollywood Reporter roundtable moderator, explores the evolving landscape of film education. He addresses whether film school remains valuable amidst rising tuition and industry changes. Galloway highlights the importance of undergraduate studies in critical thinking, the role of graduate programs in technical training, and the networking opportunities they provide. He also shares insights on career outcomes for different specializations.
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Undergrad Film School Trains Thinking
- Film school still offers broad intellectual training that underpins long-term careers in media.
- Stephen Galloway argues undergraduate study teaches critical thinking more than narrow craft skills.
Choose Grad Conservatory For Technical Craft
- If you need a technical craft like cinematography, pursue a conservatory-style graduate program.
- Galloway says intensive, mentor-driven coursework accelerates skills that would otherwise take a decade to learn.
Weigh Debt Against Career Outcomes
- Think hard about cost and return before taking on large student debt for an MFA.
- Galloway discourages many prospective grad students when the financial payoff is unclear.