Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $55,151 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $220,604 |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 41.4% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $6,750 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $55,151/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Film/Video and Photographic Arts. | Certificate | $23,456 | $9,500 |
The Risk Factor
41.4% of students at Digital Film Academy graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
Digital Film Academy's numbers are hard to justify. You pay $55,151 a year in net price at this private for-profit two-year school, and even the lowest income families under $30k get no break , the price stays at $55,151 across the board. There is no visible discount for families with fewer resources.
The one program with reported earnings, a film/video and photographic arts certificate, leads to about $23,456 a year. That is below what many high school graduates earn, and it comes attached to $9,500 in debt on that credential. Note this is a certificate, not a degree, so you are paying university-level tuition for a short-term credential that pays under $24k.
The bright spot is that median debt sits at $6,750, low compared to most schools. But that low debt figure hides the real cost. The sticker is covered largely up front, not through loans, which means you or your family are paying cash for a program whose graduates earn poverty-level wages. The 41.4% graduation rate means most people who start do not finish, and if you leave partway you keep the bill without the certificate.
This school makes financial sense only if you can pay out of pocket, you already have industry contacts in the New York film market, and you treat it as a technical add-on to skills or income you already have. If you need the certificate to pay back its own cost, the math does not work. Look at community college film programs in New York, where net price runs a fraction of $55,151 and you can earn a transferable associate degree. For most family budgets, this school is a weak return.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Digital Film Academy worth the cost?
With a net price of $55,151 per year and film graduates earning a median of $23,456, Digital Film Academy presents a challenging return on investment. The low graduation rate of 41% adds significant risk to an already expensive program.
What is the job outlook for Digital Film Academy graduates?
Film and video production graduates from Digital Film Academy earn around $23,456 median salary, which is low compared to the school's annual cost of over $55,000. The creative industries are competitive with inconsistent income potential.
How much debt do Digital Film Academy students typically have?
The median debt for Digital Film Academy graduates is $6,750, which is relatively low compared to other private schools. However, with low earning potential in film careers, even modest debt can be difficult to repay.
Should I attend Digital Film Academy or a cheaper film school?
Given Digital Film Academy's high cost and low graduate earnings, more affordable community college film programs or state schools typically offer better value. The film industry often values portfolio and experience over expensive credentials.