Orange Coast College

They have a film department?  Yes. 

But it's a 2-year, community college, right?  Yes.

So, I can get real filmmaking experience, right down the street, for $26 per unit?  Yes.

Orange Coast College has had a film program since 1970, although when people think of film schools, they usually start with "U", not "O".  But nestled beneath the hustle and bustle of the South Coast Metro area of Orange County is a real film school with a nearly new facility (2002), millions in film & TV equipment to learn and use, and industry-experienced faculty and staff.  Students also gain real-world experience through the Internship Academy, interning either at local production companies or Hollywood powerhouses.  Many students transfer to 4-year colleges, or go right out into the workforce.  Recent graduates have been spotted in the credits of I-Robot, Lord of the Rings, Superman, American Idol, Survivor, Team America, and Avatar.  OCC alumni are out there doing everything from Production Assistants to Editors, Cinematographers, Producers, and Directors. 

This Spring marks the 40th Anniversary of the OCC Film/Video Department, and to celebrate, there will be an alumni event and short film festival in May.  Please see the events calendar here for details.

OCC's website:  http://orangecoastcollege.edu/