Networkingaudiovideo.com – Video editing school top 5 that you should know. Video editing has become an integral part of the filmmaking process, a creative and technical endeavor that can make or break a movie’s success. Aspiring editors seek not only to develop their technical skills but also to master the art of storytelling through visuals. To cater to this passion and commitment, renowned video editing schools in the United States have emerged as the training grounds for the next generation of film editors.
Video Editing School (Top 5) that You Shold Know
In this article, we will explore four esteemed institutions that stand out in this field, including the American Film Institute Conservatory in Los Angeles, New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, the University of Southern California, and Chapman University. Each of these schools offers unique programs and experiences that shape talented individuals into skilled video editors ready to make their mark in the film industry.
1. American Film Institute Conservatory (Los Angeles, CA)
The American Film Institute (AFI) Conservatory, located in the heart of Los Angeles, is renowned for its rigorous selection process and its commitment to producing top-tier filmmakers. AFI takes pride in admitting only the most promising talents in the realm of film and video editing, ensuring that the industry’s future is in capable hands.
At AFI, students can choose from a variety of two-year programs tailored to their specific interests in film and video. For those focused on editing, AFI provides an immersive experience that combines technical training with an emphasis on the art of storytelling through editing. A unique feature of AFI’s program is that fellows are guaranteed editing work on a minimum of eight films during their studies. Furthermore, students have the opportunity to explore various disciplines within filmmaking, including cutting films and serving as assistant editors.
What sets AFI apart is its dedication to bringing in master storytellers as guest speakers, panelists, and seminar hosts. Past speakers include prominent editors like Anne V. Coates and the editors of the acclaimed film “Spotlight,” Tom McArdle and Michael Rezendes. By the end of the program, AFI fellows leave with a comprehensive demo reel, primed for a successful entry into the industry.
- Degree: Master of Fine Arts
- Tuition: $61,425 (first year); $63,575 (second year)
- Notable Editor Alumni: Sarah Broshar (“The Post,” “Ready Player One”), Affonso Gonçalves (“Carol,” “Beasts Of The Southern Wild”), Andrew Seklir (“Westworld,” “Fargo”), Katy Skjerping (“Grey’s Anatomy,” “The Good Wife”), Byron Smith (“House of Cards,” “True Detective”)
2. Video Editing School: New York University, Tisch School of the Arts (New York, NY)
NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts has earned a reputation for producing industry icons, and its editors are no exception. Their editing program is a part of the film and television department’s postproduction specialization, offering a comprehensive curriculum that covers editing structure, both narrative and documentary-based, and technical software training.
Tisch’s approach to video editing education encompasses not just the mechanics but also the storytelling aspect of editing. Students receive a well-rounded education, covering the core principles of production, writing, criticism, and the history of the film and television industry. This holistic approach allows students to understand that editing is not just a technical process but a powerful storytelling tool.
As students progress through the program, they engage in hands-on learning, working on fellow students’ projects and acquiring advanced techniques. The school provides access to top-notch editing equipment and resources, including Final Cut Pro X, Avid Media Composer, Adobe Premiere Pro CC, and Intuos5 Touch tablets.
- Degree: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film & Television with a specialization in Post Production
- Tuition: $58,552/year
- Notable Editor Alumni: Sally Menke (“Pulp Fiction”), Joel Coen (“Fargo,” “No Country For Old Men”)
3. University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA)
The University of Southern California (USC) stands out due to its substantial financial backing, partly courtesy of a generous $175 million donation by George Lucas. Within USC, the Peter Stark Producing Program offers students a hands-on experience that combines technical training, film history, and industry techniques. Students have access to a wealth of resources, including Avid editing bays, color correction suites, sound mixing rooms, visual effects studios, and ADR and foley stages.
USC’s program is designed to mimic a real film studio, encouraging students to consider how video editing and post-production fit into both the individual film and the broader industry. This immersive approach gives students a genuine taste of what it’s like to work in video editing.
- Degree: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film & Television with a specialization in Post Production
- Tuition: $57,256/year
- Notable Editor Alumni: Debra Neil Fisher (“The Hangover,” “Austin Powers”), Lee Haxall (“Crazy Stupid Love,” “Arrested Development”), Walter Murch (“Apocalypse Now,” “The English Patient”), Avi Youabian (“The Call,” “Step Up Revolution”), Tim Atzinger (“Survivor,” “The Voice”)
4. Chapman University (Orange, CA)
Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film & Media Arts, although relatively young, has rapidly become a prominent program in the field of film and video editing. The university boasts a state-of-the-art Digital Media Arts Center, featuring a directing stage, a 4K screening room, and an expansive digital arts studio. For aspiring editors, Chapman provides a 76,000 square foot production studio equipped with multiple editing suites, a production design studio, and set workshops.
The MFA program at Chapman spans three years and is mentor-focused, encompassing a curriculum in visual storytelling, specific techniques, and industry-standard software. In the initial two years, students gain a comprehensive understanding of filmmaking, including production. They have the opportunity to gain real-life production experience, enhancing their skills and knowledge. In the third year, students collaborate with a student-run team on a thesis project with a $15,000 budget. This well-rounded program prepares video editors to excel in their chosen specialization.
- Degree: Master of Fine Arts with a specialization in editing
- Tuition: $58,552 a year
- Notable Editor Alumni: Patrick J. Don Vito (“Green Book,” “National Security”), Shelby Hall (“Jojo Rabbit”), Brett Blake (“Toy Story 4”)
5. Video Editing School: Emerson College (Boston, MA)
Emerson College offers a variety of programs within its Media Arts Production major, catering to students interested in video editing. The college provides both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees, offering a comprehensive curriculum that covers production foundations, industry history, and editing techniques.
Students begin their journey with a semester that imparts the basics of production and industry history while also participating in production workshops. As they progress, students delve into editing, taking courses that teach various software and techniques. This comprehensive education equips graduates with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in video editing.
Upon completion of the four-year program, students have the opportunity to participate in capstone projects, further honing their skills and gaining valuable professional experience.
- Degree: Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Fine Arts
- Tuition: $48,560/year
- Notable Editor Alumni: Michael McCusker (“Ford v Ferrari,” “Walk The Line”), Dave Blass (“The Boys,” “Asylum”), Zach Kornfeld (YouTuber, “The Try Guys”)
Conclusion
In the world of video editing, these institutions have established themselves as leaders in shaping the future of film. Through rigorous programs, cutting-edge facilities, and a commitment to the art of storytelling, these schools prepare students to become not just technically proficient editors but also masterful storytellers. As the film industry continues to evolve and embrace new technologies, these video editing schools ensure that the next generation of editors will be well-equipped to make their mark on the silver screen. If you have a passion for video editing and aspire to be part of the cinematic world’s future, consider one of these prestigious schools to kickstart your journey towards a rewarding and creative career in film and video editing.
