Radio, Television, and Digital Communication at Boston University

Boston University's Radio, Television, and Digital Communication program starts graduates at $37,225—well above the national median of $29,976 but right at the middle for Massachusetts programs. What sets this apart is the trajectory: earnings jump 39% to $51,602 by year four, suggesting graduates build marketable skills that translate into meaningful career progression in a notoriously competitive field.

The $23,750 in median debt translates to a manageable 0.64 debt-to-earnings ratio, below the concerning 1.0 threshold. While this program ranks in the 89th percentile nationally, its 60th percentile standing among Massachusetts programs reflects the state's concentration of strong media and communications schools. You're paying BU prices (and earning a degree from an 11% admit rate school) for outcomes that are solid but not exceptional within the local market.

The real question is whether the BU brand and network justify the investment when graduates start at essentially the state median. If your child plans to stay in Boston's media ecosystem, the university's connections likely provide value beyond what the immediate salary data shows. The strong earnings growth suggests the program positions graduates well for advancement, though breaking into this industry remains challenging regardless of credentials.