Cheapest Film/Video and Photographic Arts Colleges in Virginia

Mary Baldwin University offers Virginia's most affordable Film/Video and Photographic Arts program at just $17,833 net cost, while the University of Richmond charges nearly double at $33,417. This $15,584 gap reflects the state's mix of accessible regional colleges and selective institutions. Virginia's proximity to Washington DC creates opportunities in government media, documentary production, and corporate communications, with major contractors like Northrop Grumman and Booz Allen requiring visual content specialists.

Programs

$17,833 – $33,417

Net Price Range

$24,558

Avg. Program Earnings

64.8%

Avg. Graduation Rate

9 Film/Video and Photographic Arts Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	Mary Baldwin University Staunton, Virginia	$17,833	$33,157	55.7%
2	George Mason University Fairfax, Virginia	$18,287	$13,815	69.3%	90.0%
3	Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond, Virginia	$19,452	$16,458	65.4%	91.0%
4	Emory & Henry University Emory, Virginia	$20,591	$35,280	53.8%	96.9%
5	Hollins University Roanoke, Virginia	$22,263	$42,260	69.7%	72.4%
6	Eastern Mennonite University Harrisonburg, Virginia	$23,615	$41,860	47.1%	99.5%
7	Liberty University Lynchburg, Virginia	$29,552	$21,222	63.5%	99.3%
8	Shenandoah University Winchester, Virginia	$30,055	$36,028	70.5%	80.4%
9	University of Richmond University of Richmond, Virginia	$33,417	$62,600	87.8%	24.4%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the huge cost difference between Virginia's cheapest and most expensive film programs?

Mary Baldwin University's $17,833 net cost reflects its smaller scale and regional focus, while Richmond's $33,417 comes with an 87.8% graduation rate and highly selective 24.37% acceptance rate. The $15,584 gap shows how institutional prestige and resources directly impact pricing in Virginia's film education market.

How do Virginia's public universities compare for film students on a budget?

George Mason University leads at $18,287 net cost with the highest graduate earnings of $26,121, making it strong value for film students. Virginia Commonwealth University follows at $19,452 net but produces graduates earning $22,994, creating a notable earnings gap of over $3,000 annually.

Does Virginia's location near Washington DC benefit film program graduates?

The federal government and defense contractors create steady demand for video production, documentary work, and digital media specialists. Companies like Northrop Grumman and Booz Allen regularly hire visual content creators, while proximity to DC opens doors in political media, nonprofit communications, and government contracting.

More Film/Video and Photographic Arts Rankings

Best Value Film/Video and Photographic Arts in Virginia Film/Video and Photographic Arts Under $20,000 in Virginia

All Film/Video and Photographic Arts Programs Best Colleges in Virginia Best Film/Video and Photographic Arts in Virginia

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