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North Carolina's public universities deliver the most affordable film and photography education, with UNC School of the Arts charging just $12,372 annually compared to High Point University's $40,721. The state's growing film industry benefits from productions moving to Charlotte and Wilmington for tax incentives. UNC Charlotte accepts nearly 80% of applicants while UNC School of the Arts maintains selective 32% admission rates, creating different pathways into media careers across the Research Triangle and coastal production hubs.
6
Programs
$12,372 – $40,721
Net Price Range
$24,323
Avg. Program Earnings
61.4%
Avg. Graduation Rate

6 Film/Video and Photographic Arts Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $12,372 $9,477 79.2% 31.8%
2 $14,745 $7,214 67.7% 79.6%
3 $17,740 $16,896 33.2% 58.9%
4 $17,893 $25,950 47.5% 74.6%
5 $19,472 $7,317 70.7% 68.8%
6 $40,721 $44,208 70.0% 78.9%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the massive cost difference between North Carolina's cheapest and most expensive film programs?

Public universities like UNC School of the Arts cost $12,372 annually while private High Point University charges $40,721, creating a $28,349 gap. State funding allows public schools to offer lower tuition, with in-state students at UNC Charlotte paying just $7,214 compared to private alternatives.

How do graduation rates vary among affordable film programs in North Carolina?

UNC School of the Arts achieves a 79% graduation rate despite being the cheapest option, while Saint Augustine's University graduates only 33% of students at $17,740 annually. The data shows that lower cost doesn't necessarily mean lower completion rates in North Carolina film programs.

Where do film graduates typically find work in North Carolina's media market?

UNC Wilmington graduates earn $25,729 annually, reflecting opportunities in the coastal film industry where productions choose North Carolina for tax benefits. Charlotte's banking sector also creates demand for corporate video production, while the Research Triangle offers emerging media technology positions.

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