Communication and Media Studies at Dallas Baptist University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Dallas Baptist University's Communications program shows unusually strong earnings momentum, with graduates jumping from $35,812 in year one to $46,811 by year four—a 31% gain that outpaces most communications programs. While that first-year salary sits just above average, the four-year trajectory suggests graduates are securing better opportunities as they gain experience. Among Texas communications programs, this ranks in the 60th percentile, landing ahead of the state median and most competitors, though still trailing UT Austin and the surprisingly high-earning for-profit options.
The debt picture looks reasonable at $22,831, translating to a 0.64 debt-to-earnings ratio that's manageable even with that modest starting salary. This matters for a communications degree, where many graduates struggle with heavier debt loads relative to first-year pay. The combination of below-average debt and above-average long-term earnings creates a workable financial foundation.
For parents, this program represents a solid middle-ground choice—not the highest ceiling, but steady upward momentum and debt you can realistically handle. The 91% admission rate means access isn't a barrier, and the earnings growth suggests DBU's network or curriculum helps graduates advance beyond entry-level positions faster than typical. If your child is committed to communications and prefers a Christian university environment in Dallas, the numbers support this as a financially viable path.
Where Dallas Baptist University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all communication and media studies bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Dallas Baptist University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Dallas Baptist University graduates earn $36k, placing them in the 55th percentile of all communication and media studies bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Communication and Media Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (64 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dallas Baptist University | $35,812 | $46,811 | $22,831 | 0.64 |
| University of Phoenix-Texas | $47,919 | $49,715 | $45,000 | 0.94 |
| DeVry University-Texas | $47,622 | $47,238 | $56,858 | 1.19 |
| The University of Texas Permian Basin | $46,203 | $45,950 | $22,852 | 0.49 |
| The University of Texas at Austin | $43,848 | — | $20,500 | 0.47 |
| Baylor University | $43,740 | $53,270 | $23,860 | 0.55 |
| National Median | $34,959 | — | $25,000 | 0.72 |
Other Communication and Media Studies Programs in Texas
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Texas schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Phoenix-Texas Dallas | — | $47,919 | $45,000 |
| DeVry University-Texas Irving | $17,488 | $47,622 | $56,858 |
| The University of Texas Permian Basin Odessa | $10,904 | $46,203 | $22,852 |
| The University of Texas at Austin Austin | $11,678 | $43,848 | $20,500 |
| Baylor University Waco | $54,844 | $43,740 | $23,860 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Dallas Baptist University, approximately 24% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 34 graduates with reported earnings and 31 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.