Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 69.4%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 70.9%
- Retention Rate
- 78.4%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $29,633
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $16,000
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 4:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 49.2%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $170/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Film/Video and Photographic Arts. | Master | $23,649 | $127,588 |
| Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft. | Master | $18,498 | $100,507 |
| Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft. | Associate | $17,794 | $14,750 |
| Film/Video and Photographic Arts. | Certificate | $16,394 | $9,500 |
| Film/Video and Photographic Arts. | Bachelor | $16,169 | $30,750 |
| Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft. | Certificate | $11,763 | $5,729 |
Outcomes Overview
New York Film Academy graduates face significant financial challenges after completing their degrees. The median debt of $16,000 creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 54% against first-year earnings of $29,633. Monthly loan payments of $170 consume about 7% of typical graduate income. The film industry's project-based nature explains why only 49% of borrowers successfully repay their loans on schedule. Most graduates enter competitive fields like cinematography, editing, and production assistance where entry-level positions often pay below industry averages. Despite an 82.6% employment rate, the combination of modest starting salaries and expensive living costs in entertainment centers creates financial strain. This represents a weak return on investment for most students.