Published: March 9, 2026
Austin, Texas, USA
UT Austin’s RTF program is a selective public university film school known for affordability and connection to the Austin film scene.
Quick Facts
BA and MFA degrees offered
Focus: Film production, screenwriting, documentary, and media studies
Language: English
Exchange students: Yes
In-state tuition: $11,688 per year (2024-2025)
Out-of-state tuition: $44,908 per year (2024-2025)
Acceptance rate: Less than 25% for undergraduates, less than 15% for MFA
What This School Is Known For
UT Austin’s RTF program is housed in the Moody College of Communication, part of the larger University of Texas system. Austin is known as a major film scene location (home to SXSW film festival). The program is much more affordable than private film schools because it is a public university.
Programs Offered
BA in Radio-Television-Film
MFA in Film and Media Production (fully funded for accepted students)
Emphasis areas in production, directing, cinematography, and screenwriting
Teaching Approach
UT Austin blends film theory with practical production work. Students learn both the creative and technical aspects of filmmaking. The program emphasizes storytelling and individual voice.
Equipment and Facilities
Five professional 1,200-square-foot soundstages with professional lighting grids
Austin City Limits studio (500-seat venue with ACL history)
Mac editing labs with Avid and Final Cut Pro
Pro Tools and ADR studios for sound design
Equipment checkout: Sony, Panasonic cameras, 16mm film equipment, lighting, and sound gear
Industry Connections
Matthew McConaughey (actor, producer, professor at UT Austin)
Glen Powell (actor, screenwriter, producer)
Jennifer Lane (executive producer, Emmy winner for Queer Eye)
Andrew Dismukes (writer and actor on Saturday Night Live)
Arturo Perez (co-director of Mean Girls, 2024)
Admissions
Selective program with less than 25% acceptance rate for undergraduates. Requires application, portfolio, transcripts, and interviews. GPA and test scores matter but creative work quality is important too.
Cost
In-state tuition: $11,688 per year
Out-of-state tuition: $44,908 per year
Housing and meals: Approximately $13,000-$17,000 per year
MFA students: Fully funded for four years (teaching assistantships cover tuition and salary)
Financial aid and scholarships available
For Visiting and Exchange Students
UT Austin welcomes international students. Austin is a vibrant city known for music, film, and culture. Student visa support is available through the university.
Who This School Is Best For
Best for students who want a quality film education at a lower cost. UT Austin is excellent if you are a Texas resident and want to stay close to home. Great for students interested in the Austin film community and SXSW connections.
