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Michigan's film programs reveal a stark divide between public affordability and private specialization costs. University of Michigan leads with the highest post-graduation earnings at $28,682 annually, while maintaining a net cost of just $14,832 for a program with only 17.69% acceptance rates. At the opposite end, Oakland University delivers the state's most affordable option at $13,584 net cost, though graduates earn $20,748 on average. Michigan's automotive heritage now supports a growing media production sector, with companies like Ford and GM increasingly investing in video content for marketing and training. The state's 18 film programs span from Ferris State's $12,202 bargain to College for Creative Studies' specialized $33,342 investment, creating pathways for different career goals and budgets in an industry where Michigan's manufacturing expertise translates into technical filmmaking skills.
18
Programs
$12,202 – $33,342
Net Price Range
$25,961
Avg. Program Earnings
62.4%
Avg. Graduation Rate

18 Film/Video and Photographic Arts Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $14,832 $28,682 $17,228 93.2% 17.7%
2 $17,084 $29,413 $15,510 45.5% 83.2%
3 $18,701 $29,487 $15,298 57.8% 84.6%
4 $14,773 $23,113 $14,297 56.5% 75.3%
5 $13,584 $20,748 $14,694 56.9% 90.1%
6 $17,485 $26,353 $13,304 50.8% 70.6%
7 $17,096 $24,697 $14,628 68.6% 90.4%
8 $33,342 $25,194 $51,355 69.6% 49.2%
9 $17,815 $27,360 58.1% 64.8%
10 $20,899 $32,580 59.9% 47.3%
11 $28,458 $26,390 53.6% 75.7%
12 $20,751 $15,988 82.2% 88.0%
13 $21,504 $40,556 56.0% 69.1%
14 $22,384 $29,100 61.6% 81.8%
15 $12,202 $13,630 47.9% 87.9%
16 $24,783 $38,670 77.4% 74.2%
17 $18,902 $38,520 62.5% 90.8%
18 $18,597 $33,710 65.9% 91.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of Michigan's film program worth the competitive admission process?

With only 17.69% of applicants accepted, U-M operates one of the state's most selective film programs. Graduates earn $28,682 annually, the highest among Michigan film schools, while paying a net cost of $14,832. The program maintains a 93.20% graduation rate, suggesting strong student support and program completion rates that justify the competitive entry requirements.

How do Michigan's public film programs compare in terms of value?

Public programs range from Ferris State's $12,202 net cost to Michigan State's $20,751, with earnings spanning $20,748 to $29,487. Western Michigan and Eastern Michigan both produce graduates earning over $29,000 annually at net costs under $19,000. Wayne State offers Detroit proximity at $14,773 net cost with graduates earning $23,113, providing urban industry access at moderate pricing.

Is College for Creative Studies worth the $33,342 investment?

As Michigan's only specialized art school offering film programs, College for Creative Studies charges significantly more than public alternatives. Graduates earn $25,194 annually, placing it in the middle of the state's earnings range despite the highest costs. The 69.60% graduation rate and 49.20% acceptance rate indicate selective admission and strong completion support for serious art students.

Where do Michigan film graduates find the best earning potential?

Western Michigan leads graduate earnings at $29,487, followed closely by Eastern Michigan at $29,413, both exceeding $29,000 annually. These universities significantly outpace the state average while maintaining affordable net costs under $19,000. University of Michigan ranks third in earnings at $28,682, showing that public universities dominate the top earning positions for Michigan film graduates.

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.