Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication at Capital University

Capital University's communications program graduates earn $45,235 in their first year—significantly above both the national median ($39,794) and Ohio's median ($41,677) for this field. The program ranks in the 86th percentile nationally, placing it among the top tier of communications programs. However, within Ohio's competitive landscape, it sits closer to the middle at the 60th percentile, trailing the Miami University campuses and Franklin University by several thousand dollars.

The $27,000 debt load is reasonable, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.60 that's better than most communications programs nationwide (5th percentile for debt). Graduates can realistically manage these payments on their starting salaries. The modest 2% earnings growth from year one to year four suggests this field rewards experience elsewhere rather than through dramatic salary jumps at early employers.

One important caveat: these figures come from fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes could vary more than usual. Still, for families weighing communications programs in Ohio, Capital delivers competitive earnings with manageable debt. It's a solid choice if your child wants to stay in Columbus, though top performers might consider the Miami University options if higher earning potential justifies any additional cost.