Film & Photography at University of the Arts

Philadelphia, PA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Film/Video and Photographic Arts
10 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
10
Optimistic
10
Base Case
8
Pessimistic
Earnings $17,674/yr (-32% vs median)
AI Risk High (44% exposed)
Job Market Large (43,700 openings/yr)
ROI 2.2x earnings multiple
Ranked #139 of 140 Film/Video and Photographic Arts programs

Program Analysis

The earnings data here reflects the challenging reality of breaking into and sustaining a career in the film, video, and photographic arts. While your program will intensely hone your creative and technical skills, the Philadelphia market, though vibrant, isn't a primary production hub like some larger cities, meaning many graduates often pursue independent projects, freelance work, or roles in smaller local agencies. These paths typically involve a slower climb to higher salaries compared to more structured corporate positions. As an arts-focused institution, the emphasis is heavily on craft, but success in these fields increasingly demands strong entrepreneurial skills and a robust professional network. Proactively seek out internships and build a strong, diverse portfolio with real-world client experience from day one.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Film & Photography graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $468K $470K $443K
Earnings Multiple 2.2x 2.2x 2.0x
Probability of Field Employment 41% 37% 28%
DegreeOutlook Score 10 10 8

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$217,160
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$176,616
19% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,000
18.3 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$35,179
99% growth from Year 1

About University of the Arts

A 78% acceptance rate means University of the Arts is accessible to most applicants, a smaller institution with 1,064 students in Philadelphia, PA.

See all programs and financial aid at University of the Arts →

Top Career Paths

Producers and directors $83,480/yr
Art, drama, and music teachers, postsecondary $80,190/yr
Communications teachers, postsecondary $77,800/yr
View all 6 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Film & Photography at Other Schools

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Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does University of the Arts's Film & Photography program score?
This program scores 10/100 — on the lower end for Film & Photography. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
Do University of the Arts Film & Photography graduates earn enough to justify the loans?
The debt-to-income ratio of 1.5x suggests an extended repayment window. Whether it's 'worth it' depends on career trajectory, not just first-year pay.
How vulnerable is Film & Photography to AI automation?
AI won't 'replace' Film & Photography careers outright, but it is likely to reduce the number of job openings. We model 44% task exposure, which compresses field employment probability in our scenarios.
Why are Film & Photography earnings lower at University of the Arts?
Lower starting pay at University of the Arts may reflect local labor market conditions rather than program quality. Many graduates see convergence with national averages within 3-5 years.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →