Students receive training in preproduction, production, and postproduction from faculty actively working in the industry
Santa Monica College (SMC) has been recognized by MovieMaker Magazine as one of the 30 Best Film Schools in the U.S. and Canada for 2025, marking its third appearance on the publication’s annual list. The community college, located near Los Angeles’ entertainment hub, was praised for its affordability and hands-on filmmaking programs.
SMC’s film production and film studies programs offer two-year tracks focusing on practical skills or scholarly theory. Students receive training in preproduction, production, and postproduction from faculty actively working in the industry, producing films while earning credits transferable to four-year institutions like UCLA. The magazine highlighted SMC’s commitment to accessibility, noting its low tuition—$46 per unit for California residents and $398 for non-residents—and its location near Hollywood.
The college’s film program, launched in 2010, has produced 30 short films through its capstone course, Film 33. Eight student films have been showcased at the Emerging Filmmaker Showcase at the Cannes Film Festival’s American Pavilion, including the 2021 Best Student Film winner “Broken Layers.” SMC films have also earned awards at festivals such as the L.A. Shorts International Film Festival, Vienna Independent Film Festival, and San Diego International Film Festival, among others. The program has received grants from The Golden Globe Foundation and co-production support from industry partners like Keslow Camera.
Salvador Carrasco, head of SMC’s film production program, emphasized the program’s focus on professional mentorship and high-quality education without financial burden. “Our faculty guide students on set, ensuring they graduate with practical skills and films that reflect complex themes,” Carrasco said. The program’s YouTube channel features its festival-circuit films.
MovieMaker’s 2025 list, published on September 4, includes prestigious institutions like USC, NYU, and AFI Conservatory.
