Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication at Carroll College

Carroll College's communications program faces a challenging debt equation, with an estimated $25,832 borrowed to enter a field where similar programs nationally suggest first-year earnings around $39,794. That 0.65 debt-to-earnings ratio isn't catastrophic, but it means graduates may carry debt totaling roughly eight months of gross income—a meaningful burden when building a career in PR or advertising, fields not known for generous entry-level salaries.

The debt figure stands out particularly in Montana context. Montana State University Billings reports similar earnings for this major but considerably lower median debt of $17,653. That $8,000 difference matters when you're earning under $40,000 annually. Carroll's private college model appears to come with a premium that may not translate into higher starting salaries for communications graduates, who face a competitive job market whether they're in Montana or relocating to larger markets.

For families willing to invest in Carroll's small-campus experience and reputation, this program won't derail their child's financial future—the debt burden is manageable over time. But parents should press hard on financial aid packages and consider whether the additional borrowing delivers enough value beyond what Montana's public option offers. If your student needs to minimize debt to maintain flexibility in choosing early-career opportunities (including lower-paid nonprofit or startup roles), the public alternative deserves serious consideration.