Graphic Communications at Columbus College of Art & Design

Columbus College of Art & Design's graphic communications program starts slow but shows strong momentum, with earnings jumping 52% between year one and year four. While that first-year figure of $20,110 is concerning—placing graduates in the 25th percentile nationally—by year four, earnings reach $30,491, approaching the national median. The $27,000 in debt means about 1.3 years of first-year salary, which is manageable if the upward trajectory continues.

Here's the context that matters: among Ohio's four graphic communications programs, CCAD sits exactly at the state median. The much higher earnings at Bowling Green ($38,489) suggest that for Ohio families, there may be stronger options in-state. However, CCAD graduates do outpace those from Cleveland Institute of Art, and the 40% Pell grant population indicates the school serves students who might face barriers at more selective institutions.

The real question is whether your child can weather those lean first couple of years after graduation. If they have family support or can live at home while building their portfolio and client base, this program could work out—graphic communications careers often require time to establish. But families counting on immediate financial independence after graduation should proceed carefully, especially with other Ohio programs showing higher starting salaries.