Communication and Media Studies at Carthage College

Carthage's communication program starts slowly but builds momentum—first-year graduates earn $33,580, landing below both Wisconsin's median ($38,164) and the national average. This 40th percentile ranking among Wisconsin programs means six out of ten comparable in-state options deliver stronger initial outcomes. The University of Wisconsin system schools, in particular, offer a noticeable earnings advantage at graduation, with several campuses placing graduates $7,000-9,000 ahead.

The value case improves considerably over time. Four years out, earnings jump to $44,520—a 33% increase that outpaces typical wage growth in this field. That trajectory helps offset the modest start, though it doesn't fully close the gap with top state performers. At $26,000 in debt (roughly matching state and national medians), the burden is manageable, with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.77 suggesting graduates can handle repayment without undue strain.

For families choosing Carthage over a UW campus, understand the tradeoff: you're accepting lower initial earnings in exchange for whatever campus experience or specific opportunities Carthage offers. The debt load isn't alarming, and the strong earnings growth shows graduates do find their footing professionally. But if maximizing starting salary matters—particularly important in a field where early career connections often dictate trajectory—Wisconsin's public universities deliver more immediate value in this major.