Film/Video and Photographic Arts at Oakland University

Oakland University's Film/Video and Photographic Arts program produces concerning outcomes that place it near the bottom nationally—ranking in just the 22nd percentile compared to similar programs across the country. While Michigan film programs generally underperform the national average, Oakland's first-year median earnings of $22,011 trail even the state median by $3,000. Among 18 Michigan programs, this ranks smack in the middle at the 40th percentile, but more selective programs like Eastern Michigan ($27,348) and Western Michigan ($26,502) demonstrate significantly better outcomes.

The one bright spot: debt levels here are remarkably low, ranking in the 5th percentile nationally. At $27,000, the debt load is manageable despite the weak earnings, resulting in a debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.23. This matters because film and photography careers often require unpaid internships and portfolio-building early on. The 10% earnings growth to $24,156 by year four suggests graduates do gain some traction, though they're still earning roughly $9,000 less annually than typical bachelor's degree holders nationwide.

For families considering this program, understand you're looking at entry-level retail wages despite four years of college. If your child is genuinely passionate about film or photography and has a specific career path mapped out, the low debt makes this less risky than most arts programs. But if they're exploring interests or hoping for financial stability post-graduation, the earnings reality here should prompt serious conversations about alternatives—whether that's a different program, a different Michigan school with stronger outcomes, or portfolio-building outside traditional academia.