The University of Arizona School of Theatre, Film & Television (TFTV) is ranked No. 4 among public film schools by The Wrap, which released its annual “Top 50 Film Schools in the U.S.” list on October 30.
This year the school is ranked No. 11 overall, maintaining its position in the top dozen schools nationwide alongside influential film programs like those at New York University, University of Southern California and University of California, Los Angeles – and remains one of the few top-tier schools not based in Los Angeles or New York.
This year’s ranking reflects TFTV’s continued excellence and momentum as it strengthens its hands-on production focus, expands industry connections, and continues to guide an ever-growing number of students whose work is earning recognition through awards and film festivals. TFTV stands out for combining analytical and historical approaches to film and television with a deep understanding of the contemporary media industry. This comprehensive foundation prepares students to excel in competitive internships and to secure positions at leading entertainment companies.
In its profile of the school, The Wrap highlighted TFTV’s initiatives such as Film and Television LA (FTV LA), the school’s industry partnership with Film Independent that fosters intergenerational alumni connections via event programming and screenings. FTV LA’s Fall 2025 speaker series featured alumni including writers Laura Snow (Will Trent) and Elias Benavidez (Resident Alien), CAA agent Matt Martin and actor Vinessa Vidotto (FBI: International). Also noted by The Wrap: the school’s career-enhancing experiences for students at festivals like the Sundance Film Festival, its signature senior thesis showcase I Dream in Widescreen (next taking place at the Fox Tucson Theatre on May 9, 2026), as well as new hires including former Disney, HBO Max and Nickelodeon development executive Nikki Reed and award-winning filmmaker Jen Gerber.
“TFTV’s ranking this year reflects the talent, drive and creativity of our students, the real-world experience and expertise of our faculty, and the strength of our alumni network,” said TFTV Director Dr. Frances Gateward. “We are proud to be one of the top public film schools in the nation and will continue to push the boundaries of production, storytelling and career preparation for our Wildcat filmmakers and entertainment industry professionals.”
The Wrap’s 2025 methodology again partnered with data-research firm Screen Engine/ASI, evaluating metrics such as student-to-faculty ratio, breadth of media/film/TV course offerings, volume of student productions, guest-speaker involvement, alumni success and awards.
Landing the No. 4 position among public film schools validates TFTV’s commitment to a production-driven pedagogy within a public university environment. For prospective students, it signals that TFTV offers an experience and industry preparation on par with the best in the country – not just among private film schools, but especially among publicly funded institutions.
Looking ahead
TFTV will build on this momentum by strengthening industry partnerships, expanding guest-speaker and mentorship programs, and increasing production opportunities for students across majors (BA, BFA, Producing, Film & Television Production, Live & Screened Performance). The program will also continue to enhance alumni-student connections and festival strategies for student films, while broadening FTV LA’s offerings for students and alumni in Los Angeles.
In January, students and faculty will embark on the school’s 4th annual trip to the Sundance Film Festival, continuing TFTV’s tradition of engaging with the industry at one of the most celebrated platforms for independent film.
The Wrap's Top 50 Film Schools of 2025