For the fourth consecutive year, CU Denver’s film & television (FiTV) program has been named to MovieMaker Magazine’s best film schools list. In the list of 30 schools, CU Denver stands out for its affordability and the thorough, sequence-based nature of its curriculum that affords students ample time on sets as they build one skillset on another.

“Many excellent schools teach film history and theory, but the ones on this list especially highlight hands-on filmmaking experience that can help you survive in a famously tough field,” the article by Deirdre McCarrick states.  

The unranked list features film schools in the U.S. and Canada that the magazine has identified for helping aspiring filmmakers break into the film and television industry. Among the schools on the list are the usual favorites like NYU and USC, notable for their famous alumni, but also their steep tuition. 

CU Denver is noteworthy not only for its affordability, but also for the strong bonds students create while working on film sets together. The school’s connections to Hollywood are also highlighted. Each year a stellar line up of Hollywood professionals speak to and interact with the students; while the school’s Hollywood internship program facilitates real world experience while helping students cultivate connections with working professionals in Hollywood. 

Alumni of CU Denver’s film & television department have gone on to find success not just in Hollywood but also in independent and commercial film. Recently, FiTV alum Aaron Kopp was honored at CU Denver College of Arts & Media’s 2025 alumni awards for his work on the Academy-Award-nominated film Anuja. Whatever film aspirations students may have, they will find the network, training, and experience they will need to succeed at CU Denver.