Film/Video and Photographic Arts at Webster University

Webster University's film program starts graduates at just $19,071—placing it in the bottom 5% nationally and well below Missouri's $22,619 median. That first-year figure is alarmingly low, barely above minimum wage for full-time work, and it means graduates face immediate financial stress even with the relatively modest $23,700 debt load. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.24 translates to carrying student loans worth more than an entire year's salary right out of school.

The silver lining is substantial earnings growth: graduates see their income jump 63% by year four, reaching $31,084. This growth trajectory suggests the degree might function as an entry point to the industry rather than immediate career placement, and those who persist can reach respectable mid-career earnings. However, even at year four, graduates still trail what University of Missouri-Columbia film graduates earn in their first year.

For parents considering this program, understand you're likely subsidizing several years of below-poverty-level income while your child builds their portfolio and industry connections. The first few years will require financial support beyond managing loan payments. If your family can afford that runway and your student is genuinely committed to the film industry, the growth pattern shows it's possible to build toward a sustainable income—but this isn't a path to quick financial independence.