'TheWrap' Names Columbia College Chicago Among the Top 20 Film Schools

photo of camera crew on film set
In its annual listing of the best film schools, “TheWrap” ranks Columbia College Chicago No. 18.

Columbia College Chicago’s School of Film and Television is ranked No. 18 in “TheWrap’s” 2025 list of the top 50 film schools, recognizing the school's curriculum, Semester in LA program, and virtual production capabilities.

“TheWrap” highlights the flexibility of Columbia’s new curriculum, its cutting-edge LED volume wall, and the integration of artificial intelligence in filmmaking. The ranking also notes Columbia’s high job placement rate among 2023 graduates, an indicator of the school’s success in preparing students for industry careers. 

“We’re proud to provide an environment where creativity meets technology, and students gain the experience needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving industry,” says Eric Scholl interim co-director of the School of Film and Television. 

Located in the heart of Chicago’s media and production hub, Columbia’s program emphasizes a “learn by doing” philosophy.  

Students develop their craft across three professional soundstages at the Media Production Center, collaborate on live productions, and connect directly with working professionals through internships and the college’s Semester in L.A. program at Sunset Las Palmas Studios. 

“This latest honor from ‘TheWrap’ follows Columbia’s continued recognition in national publications such as ‘MovieMaker’ and ‘The Hollywood Reporter,” says Wenhwa Tsao, interim co-director of the School of Film and Television. “It truly underscores our status as one of the nation’s leading destinations for aspiring filmmakers and storytellers.” 

Read more about "TheWrap's" best film schools.