Film & Photography at Academy of Art University
a compact campus enrolling 4,131 students in San Francisco, CA.
Program Analysis
Academy of Art University Film & Photography graduates command $30,178/yr out of the gate, well above the $21,229 national median. That 42% premium suggests the program's industry reputation carries real labor-market weight.
At 6.5x the cost of tuition, the ten-year earnings outlook represents a strong return. Not exceptional, but meaningfully positive.
AI risk is moderate — 44% task exposure — and the 15% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Film & Photography graduates.
The $32,187 debt load exceeds a year of the $30,178 starting salary, suggesting a multi-year repayment window before graduates break even financially.
Ranked #9 out of 23 programs, Academy of Art University's Film & Photography offering sits in the upper half but doesn't break into the top tier.
Earnings growth is modest: $30,178 to $36,174 over five years (20% gain). This trade may have a lower salary ceiling than high-growth professions.
With 8 registered apprenticeships mapped to Film & Photography, graduates have substantial options for hands-on training paths that pay from day one.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Film & Photography graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Producers and directors | $83,480 | +4.9% | 58% |
| Art, drama, and music teachers, postsecondary | $80,190 | +1.7% | 56% |
| Communications teachers, postsecondary | $77,800 | +2.1% | 57% |
Film & Photography Career Guide
Explore what Film & Photography graduates do, from entry-level roles to long-term career paths across 23 programs nationwide.
Compare & Explore
Film & Photography Overview
Film & Photography at Other Schools
Other Majors at Academy of Art University
Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree
Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.