Film/Video and Photographic Arts at Champlain College

Champlain's film program graduates earn $21,092 in their first year—roughly $4,000 below the national median for film degrees and landing in the 18th percentile nationally. That's a tough starting point when you're facing $27,000 in debt. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.28 means graduates owe more than they'll earn in their entire first year, which creates immediate financial stress for young adults trying to establish themselves in creative fields.

The silver lining is modest but real: earnings climb to $25,486 by year four, a 21% increase that brings graduates closer to national norms. Within Vermont's small film program landscape, Champlain actually performs at the median, ranking in the 60th percentile statewide. But Vermont's film industry is limited, and these numbers suggest most graduates will need to look beyond the state for better opportunities. The relatively low debt burden (5th percentile nationally) helps, but only marginally when starting salaries are this low.

For families considering this program, the question is whether your student has the drive and connections to beat these odds. Film and photography careers often depend on freelance work, personal projects, and networking that won't show up in these wage data. If your child needs stable earnings to service debt quickly, this path will be challenging. If they have minimal debt, family support, or a clear plan for supplemental income, the program becomes more viable—but it's not a safe financial bet by any measure.