Audiovisual Communications Technologies/Technicians at Savannah College of Art and Design

Starting at just $20,682 a year after graduation, SCAD's audiovisual communications program ranks in the bottom fifth nationally—but the story here is entirely about timing. While initial earnings trail the $26,194 national median, four years out these graduates nearly double their income to $38,020, showing a trajectory that puts this program ahead of most Georgia audiovisual programs (60th state percentile).

The $26,000 debt load is manageable at the national median, though that 1.26 debt-to-earnings ratio in year one means early budgets will be tight. This pattern makes sense for a technical production field where entry-level positions in smaller markets give way to better-paying opportunities as graduates build portfolios and move into more specialized roles. The question is whether your family can financially support those lean initial years—living costs in Savannah won't wait for earnings to catch up.

For students serious about production careers and willing to hustle through an apprentice-style first few years, the earnings growth here is real. Just recognize you're banking on year 2-4 improvements rather than immediate post-graduation returns, which means having a financial cushion or family support for that transition period isn't optional—it's essential.