Film/Video and Photographic Arts at New York University

NYU's film program starts rough—$23,869 that first year out is barely above poverty wages in New York City—but then something interesting happens. By year four, earnings nearly double to $46,932, ranking this program in the 60th percentile among New York film schools. With debt at $22,250 (notably below both national and state medians), this creates a manageable burden even during those lean early years. The numbers suggest this program does what it's supposed to: it opens doors that lead somewhere, even if the journey starts slowly.

The question is whether your family can weather that initial period. At an elite school with a 9% acceptance rate, NYU draws ambitious students who may be pursuing competitive internships, building portfolios, or freelancing—all of which can explain both low starting earnings and impressive growth. But $23,869 in one of America's most expensive cities requires either substantial family support or extreme lifestyle sacrifices. The debt load is reasonable enough that it won't compound the challenge, but it won't cushion it either.

This is a program for students with a clear plan and staying power. The earnings trajectory shows NYU grads do gain traction in film careers, outpacing most New York competitors by year four. Just make sure your child understands they're signing up for a challenging first few years before the investment starts paying off.