Film/Video and Photographic Arts at Webster University

Saint Louis, MO · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
11 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
12
Optimistic
11
Base Case
9
Pessimistic
Earnings $19,071/yr (-26% vs median)
AI Risk High (44% exposed)
Job Market Large (43,700 openings/yr)
ROI 3.7x earnings multiple
Ranked #133 of 140 Film/Video and Photographic Arts programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Film/Video and Photographic Arts graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $449K $454K $430K
Earnings Multiple 3.7x 3.7x 3.5x
Probability of Field Employment 41% 37% 28%
DegreeOutlook Score 12 11 9

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$122,920
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$104,784
15% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$22,475
14.1 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$33,345
75% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

Webster University's Film/Video and Photographic Arts graduates start at $19,071/yr, trailing the $25,920 national average by 26%. The program's value hinges on affordability.

At 3.7x tuition cost in decade earnings, the ROI is moderate. This program pays for itself, but it's not a financial slam-dunk.

The 4% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Film/Video and Photographic Arts career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At a 1.2x debt-to-first-year-earnings ratio, loan repayment extends well beyond graduation. Financial aid and income-driven plans become important considerations.

A #133 ranking among 140 Film/Video and Photographic Arts programs places Webster University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

The $19,071-to-$33,345 earnings arc over five years reflects a 75% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About Webster University

Webster University's 58% acceptance rate reflects moderate selectivity, with a smaller student body of 2,180 in Saint Louis, MO.

See all programs and financial aid at Webster University →

Top Career Paths

Producers and directors $83,480/yr
Art, drama, and music teachers, postsecondary $80,190/yr
Communications teachers, postsecondary $77,800/yr
View all 6 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Film/Video and Photographic Arts at Other Schools

Other Majors at Webster University

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 11/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Film/Video and Photographic Arts at Webster University?
At 11/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Film/Video and Photographic Arts programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Film/Video and Photographic Arts degree from Webster University?
At $22,475 in median debt, graduates carry 14 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Should I worry about AI if I study Film/Video and Photographic Arts at Webster University?
The 44% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Is Webster University a good choice for Film/Video and Photographic Arts despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Webster University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →