Your Story Begins at The School of Cinematic Arts

Elevate your creative voice in screenwriting and storyboard classes taught by industry veterans. Bring your stories to life on professional sets with guidance from expert filmmakers. Master your craft through hands-on production using state-of-the-art equipment and emerging technology.

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RANKINGS AND ACCOLADES

#1

school for film and animation in the Midwest.

<div class="ck-content"><p>Animation Career Review (2024)</p></div>

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RANKINGS AND ACCOLADES

#13

animation program in the U.S. Animate your vision in a program ranked among the best.

<div class="ck-content"><p>Animation Career Review (2025)</p></div>

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 RANKINGS AND ACCOLADES

#9

film school in the U.S. Launch your journey where top national talent creates what’s next

<div class="ck-content"><p>The Hollywood Reporter (2025)</p></div>

SCHOOL OF CINEMATIC ARTS

Study With the School of Cinematic Arts

At DePaul’s School of Cinematic Arts (SCA), you gain direct industry access, practical mentoring and rigorous artistic training that act as catalysts for your career.
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INDUSTRY ACCESS
Cinespace Chicago
Film on the Midwest's largest studio lot - home to productions like The Bear and Chicago Fire - using professional ARRI, RED and a full suite of industry-standard cameras, lenses and lighting.
Explore Cinespace
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EXPERTS IN YOUR CORNER
Accomplished Faculty
Work side-by-side with faculty who've shaped the industry. They'll share both hard-won lessons and inside connections so you can chart your own course.
Meet Our Faculty
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HOLLYWOOD IMMERSION
A Quarter in Los Angeles
Spend a quarter learning in Hollywood, taking classes on a studio lot, interning with companies that suit your interests, and engaging with leaders who are redefining film and animation.
Learn About LA Quarter
Space to Create, Cutting-Edge Gear to Match

<div class="ck-content"><p>From our virtual production stage and stop-motion studios to staffed equipment centers, the School of Cinematic Arts gives you access to professional-grade tools, high-end editing suites and workflows from your first day at DePaul.</p></div>

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Visiting Artist Series

<div class="ck-content"><p>Our Visiting Artist Series fosters community and direct, meaningful contact between DePaul cinematic arts faculty, staff and students. We bring in big name industry pros and pioneers to campus so that students can engage with them directly, being a part of the VAS course, students are getting hands-on experience producing live action by being a member of the crew.</p></div>

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School of Cinematic Arts Programs

Our 30+ programs help you build your craft and step confidently into the industry.
Explore SCA Programs
Animation 
Explore Animation
Documentary 
Explore Documentary
Film and TV Production 
Explore Film and TV
Screenwriting 
Explore Screenwriting
FOLLOW IN REMARKABLE FOOTSTEPS

School of Cinematic Arts Success Stories

Our graduates are working at the highest levels of the entertainment industry. They are a testament to the value of a DePaul SCA education and a vital resource for your own professional development.
See More Alumni
SCA ALUMNI
Alexis Auditore (BA ’05) Director of Physical Production, Marvel Studios 
SCA ALUMNI
Daniel Willis (MS ’12) – Director/Writer (Grey's Anatomy, The Blacklist, Twenties) 
SCA ALUMNI
Jennifer Stachovic (BA '16)– Contributed to King of the Hill and BoJack Horseman 

LA QUARTER

Two Production Capitals

<div class="ck-content"><p>Discover filmmaking on Chicago sets amid active series and features at Cinespace. Or study in Los Angeles at the legendary Sunset Las Palmas Studios. In both cities, connect with DePaul alumni who work across film and television from coast to coast.</p></div>

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SCHOOL OF CINEMATIC ARTS

Summer Academy

Get a head start on college with our intensive summer program

<div class="ck-content"><p>High school students can experience the rigor of our conservatory-style education at our Summer Academy. Receive expert instruction from faculty, earn college credit and work with professional-grade equipment and facilities.</p></div>

Explore the Summer Academy
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SCHOOL OF CINEMATIC ARTS

Explore Scholarships and Aid

Financial aid for SCA students

<div class="ck-content"><p>School of Cinema Arts scholarships are designated to support film and animation students.</p></div>

Explore Financial Aid
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SCHOOL OF CINEMATIC ARTS

Ready to Get Started?

<div class="ck-content"><p>Take the next step toward a career in film. Get more details about our programs, come experience our facilities or begin your application to the School of Cinematic Arts.</p></div>

Find the answers you need.

Faculty and Staff

What makes a DePaul Cinematic Arts education unique?

You’ll learn from innovative filmmakers and producers through practical experience that prepare you to shape the industry—not just join it.
Production Resources

Will I get to work on real productions as a student?

Yes. You’ll crew on live multi-camera events and earn credits on professional-level projects for your portfolio.
Faculty and Network

How does the School of Cinematic Arts help build industry connections?

We bring established and emerging film leaders to campus, connecting you with mentors and collaborators and fostering a creative community beyond the classroom.
STEM Majors

How does the curriculum support creativity and growth?

Our courses push you to experiment, innovate and respond to evolving trends—so you’ll graduate confident to lead in a dynamic industry.