Film/Video and Photographic Arts at University of Utah

The University of Utah's film program outperforms three-quarters of similar programs nationally, with first-year earnings of $28,138—about $3,000 above the national median for film graduates. More importantly, earnings jump 33% by year four to $37,398, showing this program opens doors beyond entry-level production assistant roles. The debt load of $24,063 is manageable relative to that first-year salary, creating a less precarious financial starting point than many arts programs offer.

However, Utah Valley University's film graduates earn nearly $42,000 right out of school—$13,000 more annually. That's a significant gap that compounds over time. The U's program does rank around the 60th percentile within Utah, meaning it's solidly middle-of-the-pack in-state, not a standout. For families paying in-state tuition at the U, this matters less than if choosing between Utah schools at similar costs.

The real question is career trajectory. That 33% earnings growth suggests graduates aren't stuck in gig work—they're advancing into better-paid roles in media production, corporate video, or related fields. For students committed to film who want a traditional university experience in Salt Lake City, this program won't saddle them with crushing debt. Just know that Utah Valley's program demonstrates significantly stronger immediate earning power, which may reflect stronger industry connections or a different curricular focus worth investigating.