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Cheapest Film/Video and Photographic Arts Colleges in Florida

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

Florida's film programs show the starkest cost divide in higher education, with Miami Dade College offering a net price of just $5,929 while the University of Miami reaches $36,803. This $30,000 gap reflects different pathways into Florida's booming entertainment sector, where theme park media production, cruise line content creation, and tourism marketing fuel steady demand for visual storytellers. Florida State University graduates earn $35,060 annually, nearly double the earnings at other programs, while maintaining a net cost of only $10,997. The state's lack of income tax means film professionals keep more of their earnings compared to other major production hubs. Public colleges dominate the affordable end, with University of Central Florida and Santa Fe College joining Miami Dade below $12,000 in net costs.
17
Programs
$5,929 – $55,390
Net Price Range
$24,061
Avg. Program Earnings
59.6%
Avg. Graduation Rate

17 Film/Video and Photographic Arts Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $5,929 $2,838 44.7%
2 $10,650 $6,368 75.1% 41.0%
3 $10,997 $5,656 83.0% 25.0%
4 $11,154 $2,563 52.1%
5 $21,318 $55,220 62.8% 93.8%
6 $22,978 $33,450 36.6% 59.6%
7 $26,255 $46,180 57.0% 57.7%
8 $29,664 $42,360 69.3% 56.6%
9 $30,209 $31,732 43.3% 60.9%
10 $31,759 $26,417 49.6%
11 $32,751 $37,990 58.9% 94.7%
12 $33,011 $50,374 67.6% 65.1%
13 $34,439 $24,136 44.2% 96.5%
14 $35,634 $33,424 61.9% 26.4%
15 $36,803 $59,926 84.2% 18.9%
16 $38,222 $42,950 52.7% 80.1%
17 $55,390 $55,480 70.8% 64.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Miami Dade College the cheapest film program in Florida?

Miami Dade College charges just $2,838 in-state tuition with a net price of $5,929, making it the most affordable option for Florida residents. The college maintains a 44.70% graduation rate while serving the Miami market, home to major cruise lines and hospitality companies that need constant video content. Students can complete foundational coursework before transferring to four-year programs. The low cost reflects the community college model focused on accessibility rather than extensive production facilities.

How do Florida State University film graduates earn significantly more than peers?

Florida State film graduates earn $35,060 annually, nearly $15,000 more than University of Central Florida graduates who make $20,921. The program's Tallahassee location connects students to state government and political media work, while the school's strong alumni network opens doors in Los Angeles and New York. Despite higher earnings potential, the net cost remains reasonable at $10,997 for in-state students. The 83% graduation rate indicates strong program completion and career preparation.

Is Full Sail University worth the higher cost for film students?

Full Sail University charges $31,759 net price but graduates earn only $22,683 annually with $25,923 in debt. The for-profit model focuses on hands-on training and industry connections in Winter Park, near Orlando's theme park industry. However, the 49.60% graduation rate falls below many cheaper public alternatives. Students should weigh the accelerated program format against the debt-to-earnings ratio when compared to public options.

Where can Florida residents find the best value in film education?

University of Central Florida offers strong value at $6,368 in-state tuition with a 75.10% graduation rate and access to Orlando's entertainment industry. The program accepts 41% of applicants while maintaining strong completion rates. Florida State University provides the highest earning potential at $35,060 for graduates who complete the program. Both schools cost under $11,000 net price while delivering significantly better outcomes than many private alternatives.

More Film/Video and Photographic Arts Rankings

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