Program Analysis
At $23,905/yr, Film/Video and Photographic Arts graduates from Columbia College Chicago land near the $25,920 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.
The 3.5x return on tuition is positive but not overwhelming. Financial outcomes depend on keeping costs close to in-state rates.
AI risk is moderate — 44% task exposure — and the 5% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook.
The $25,000 debt load exceeds a year of the $23,905 starting salary, suggesting a multi-year repayment window before graduates break even financially.
At #120 out of 140 programs, Columbia College Chicago's financial outcomes for Film/Video and Photographic Arts trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
Earnings growth from $23,905 to $36,486 over five years (53% increase) indicates that graduates in this field see meaningful salary progression.