Film/Video and Photographic Arts at DePaul University

DePaul's Film/Video and Photographic Arts program stands out in Illinois for delivering surprisingly strong earnings growth—graduates see their income nearly double from $26,164 to $40,247 between years one and four, well above the national median for film programs. Among Illinois film schools, it ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings, outpacing competitors like Columbia College Chicago and Southern Illinois by a noticeable margin.

The starting salary is admittedly modest, typical for creative fields where entry-level work often means freelancing or assistant roles. But the 54% earnings jump over four years suggests graduates are successfully building careers rather than getting stuck in gig work. The debt load of $24,717 is manageable—essentially matching both state and national medians—and represents less than a year's income even at the lower starting salary.

For parents worried about their child's film degree, DePaul offers something many arts programs don't: clear evidence of career progression. The trajectory from year one to year four matters more here than the starting point. This isn't a program where graduates peak early and plateau. It's designed for a Chicago market with real production opportunities, and the earnings data shows students are accessing them. Just understand that the first year or two will likely require financial support or side income while your child establishes themselves.