Median Earnings (1yr)
$35,812
55th percentile (60th in TX)
Median Debt
$22,831
9% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.64
Manageable
Sample Size
34
Adequate data

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

Dallas Baptist UniversityOther communication and media studies programs

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)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Dallas Baptist University$35,812$46,811$22,8310.64
University of Phoenix-Texas$47,919$49,715$45,0000.94
DeVry University-Texas$47,622$47,238$56,8581.19
The University of Texas Permian Basin$46,203$45,950$22,8520.49
The University of Texas at Austin$43,848$20,5000.47
Baylor University$43,740$53,270$23,8600.55
National Median$34,959$25,0000.72

Other Communication and Media Studies Programs in Texas

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Texas schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (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.