There are tertiary institutions in Nigeria that offer cinematography as a course of study, where students can obtain theoretical and practical knowledge of the profession.
Cinematography is the science and art of capturing motion pictures with a camera and shaping the visuals into a narrative story in video format. It involves using a camera, lighting, and composition to tell a story.
Nigerian cinematographers are in high demand thanks to Nigeria’s fast-growing film industry, which includes Nollywood, music videos, commercials, and livestreaming.
While few universities offer standalone cinematography degrees, many Nigerian institutions offer film, media, or communication programs that include strong cinematography training.
If you’re looking to study cinematography in Nigeria, here are some of the best universities and film schools to consider.
Feel free to let me know in the comments if you have any questions or need further clarification. I would love to assist you.
Schools Offering Cinematography Courses
Here is a list of tertiary institutions in Nigeria that offer Cinematography courses;
| SN | Name of Institution | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rivers State University | Rivers State |
| 2 | Nile University of Nigeria | Abuja |
| 3 | Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) | Ogun State |
| 4 | National Film Institute | Jos |
| 5 | KAP Film and Television Academy | Lagos |
| 6 | Tonnie Iredia University of Communication | Benin City |
| 7 | Philomath University | Abuja |
| 8 | AFRIGOS Film & Media Academy | Abuja |
1. Rivers State University
Located in Port Harcourt, RSU stands out because it offers a dedicated Department of Cinematography and Broadcasting.
- Focus: Cinematography, broadcasting, visual storytelling
- Strength: Practical training from experienced professionals
This makes it one of the few universities in Nigeria with “cinematography” in the department name.
2. Nile University of Nigeria
Nile University offers a modern Film & Multimedia Studies degree.
- Duration: 4 years
- Fee: Around ₦3,100,000 per session
- Includes: Cinematography, directing, editing, VFX
This is one of the most well-equipped private universities for film education in Nigeria.
3. Olabisi Onabanjo University
Offers a structured academic approach to filmmaking.
- Program: B.Sc. Film and Media Studies
- Covers: Cinematography, sound design, directing, editing
- Strength: Strong academic + creative balance
4. National Film Institute
The National Film Institute (NFI) is Nigeria’s top film school and one of the best places to study cinematography professionally.
- Offers: Bachelor’s in Film Arts
- Specialisations: Cinematography, directing, editing, sound
- Strength: Hands-on practical training with industry-standard equipment
NFI is widely regarded as the best place in Nigeria to study cinematography as a primary discipline.
5. KAP Film and Television Academy
Founded by filmmaker Kunle Afolayan, KAP Academy offers practical filmmaking training.
- Offers: Cinematography training programs and workshops
- Focus: Hands-on learning with real film projects
- Ideal for: Beginners and intermediate filmmakers
This is one of the most industry-connected film academies in Nigeria.
6. Tonnie Iredia University of Communication
A specialised communication university offering film-related degrees.
- Program: Film & Multimedia Studies
- Includes: Cinematography, lighting techniques, directing, and editing
- Advantage: Combines theory with practical media training
7. Philomath University
Philomath University offers a Film & Multimedia program.
- Duration: 4 years
- Fee: Around ₦1,980,000 per year
- Covers: Film production, storytelling, media training
It’s a newer institution but offers a structured pathway into filmmaking.
8. AFRIGOS Film & Media Academy
A modern film academy focused on practical filmmaking.
- Offers: Diploma in filmmaking
- Includes: Cinematography, digital media production
- Strength: Industry-relevant training and mentorship
What to Study If Cinematography Isn’t a Direct Course
Many universities don’t offer “Cinematography” as a standalone degree. Instead, look for:
- Film Studies
- Film & Multimedia
- Mass Communication (with production focus)
- Theatre Arts (film/TV option)
These programs often include cinematography modules.
Conclusion
Nigeria offers several pathways to study cinematography—from universities with film and media degrees to specialised film academies focused on practical training.
While institutions like the National Film Institute provide structured education, private academies offer faster, hands-on learning tailored to the industry.
If you’re looking to gain real-world experience beyond the classroom, Arraya Studios also provides practical training, mentorship, and opportunities to work on real film and commercial productions across Nigeria.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining your skills, working with an active production company can accelerate your cinematography journey.
Get a Free Quote or Book a Consultation with Arraya Studios to start your filmmaking career the right way.
