‘The Hollywood Reporter’ names RIT as one of the top film schools in the nation

Rochester Institute of Technology’s School of Film and Animation is among the top 25 film schools in the United States, according to the most recent list published by The Hollywood Reporter. RIT was ranked number 21 this year, marking a continued rise in rank from previous years.

With its annual ranking, The Hollywood Reporter—a leading entertainment trade publication based in Los Angeles—aims to spotlight the top 25 schools across the country that are best preparing students for the ever-evolving future of the film and television industry. This is the third year RIT was named in The Hollywood Reporter’s top film schools ranking.

The publication described RIT as the perfect university for students “looking to combine a love of technology with a passion for storytelling.” RIT was lauded for the school’s emphasis on applied research in animation, visual effects, and film production, as well as the school’s first-of-its-kind motion picture science degree program.

The Hollywood Reporter also noted that the school “routinely graduates leaders in below-the-line roles” that promote technical innovation in the industry.

Ricky Figueroa, director of the School of Film and Animation and RIT’s John Traver Endowed Professor, said the school’s thriving community of faculty, staff, and alumni, and their combined support of current students, is the key to its success and growing reputation.

“Our faculty are working professionals who are contributing to many different areas of our industry, and we also foster strong relationships with alumni, which helps us keep a pulse on the technologies and trends impacting the industry,” said Figueroa. “All their knowledge and connections help ensure our students are prepared to navigate the industry with confidence once they graduate and embark on their own careers.”

In addition to being recognized by The Hollywood Reporter, RIT’s School of Film and Animation has earned repeated recognitions from publications like Variety, TheWrap, and Animation Career Review. These accolades are supported by accomplished alumni making waves in the industry, such as Emmy-winning sound editor Matthew E. Taylor, and Dolby researcher Jaclyn Pytlarz, a two-time Engineering, Science, and Technology Emmy winner.

“The success of our alumni is an indicator of how we’re performing our job as educators. It makes us all very proud every time our alumni land new jobs, receive awards, and contribute to the evolution and development of our industry,” said Figueroa.

RIT is also a top “National University,” rising to No. 88 in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings. The publication also cited RIT as being among the best universities in value, game design/simulation, experiential learning with co-ops and internships, and innovation.

Go to RIT’s School of Film and Animation website to learn more about its program offerings.