The University of Arizona School of Theatre, Film & Television (TFTV) has been named to Variety’s 2026 Education Impact Report, marking the School’s debut in the publication’s annual list of top film and entertainment programs across the United States and Canada.
Published April 22, the report highlights institutions that are adapting to a rapidly changing entertainment landscape, with a focus on innovation, hands-on training, and preparing students for evolving careers in film, television, and media. Across the list, Variety emphasizes programs that combine storytelling craft with emerging technologies, interdisciplinary collaboration, and real-world production experience.
The report recognizes the school for its integrated approach to storytelling across theatre, film, and television, as well as its emphasis on professional preparation through hands-on production and industry engagement. Recent initiatives highlighted in the report include the School’s Sitcom Lab, which gives students the opportunity to develop and pitch original work to industry professionals, and its partnership with Film Independent through Film & Television Los Angeles (FTV LA), providing students access to opportunities in a major production hub.
In the report, TFTV Director Frances Gateward underscores the School’s commitment to experiential learning and collaboration: “Students consistently tell us they value hands-on production, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and opportunities to work on projects that mirror professional practice. Our filmmakers, actors, designers, writers and scholars collaborate on productions and performances throughout the year, building portfolios that demonstrate both creative vision and practical skill.”
Mentorship at Sundance
The report also notes that TFTV students gain industry exposure through opportunities such as participation at the Sundance Film Festival and mentorship focused on festival strategy and navigating the film festival circuit as part of their training and professional preparation.
TFTV’s inclusion places it among a diverse group of institutions recognized by Variety for aligning curriculum with industry needs, from traditional storytelling foundations to emerging tools and technologies shaping the future of entertainment.
The recognition from Variety adds a new national benchmark. The school has consistently ranked among the Top 5 public film programs in The Wrap’s annual College Issue. Together, recognition from Variety and The Wrap signals growing national and industry visibility for TFTV and its students.
The full Variety 2026 ‘Education Impact Report.’
- A Sitcom Lab allowed students to realize a sitcom and pitch it to industry pros, while last year, the school partnered with Film Independent on Film & Television Los Angeles, an outpost that gives student access and opportunities in the middle of the entertainment industry. “Students consistently tell us they value hands-on production, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and opportunities to work on projects that mirror professional practice,” says Dr. Frances Gateward, director of the School of Film, Theatre and Television. “Our filmmakers, actors, designers, writers and scholars collaborate on productions and performances throughout the year, building portfolios that demonstrate both creative vision and practical skill.” Students also take annual trips to the Sundance Film Festival and learn strategy for submissions. “Their films regularly screen at festivals in the U.S. and internationally, giving emerging filmmakers experience navigating the festival circuit, widening their industry networks, and expanding the audiences for their work.”
Republished with permission. The original press release can be found on the School of Theatre, Film & Television website.