Business/Corporate Communications at Duquesne University

Duquesne's business communications program shows an unusual split: it ranks dead last nationally for earnings (5th percentile) but comfortably above average in Pennsylvania (60th percentile). This disconnect stems from Pennsylvania being a surprisingly weak state for this degree—the state median earnings ($38,207) sit well below the national benchmark ($41,494). While Duquesne matches the state average, that's cold comfort when most business communications graduates nationwide earn $3,000 more per year.

The debt load of $23,247 is manageable in absolute terms, creating a reasonable 0.61 debt-to-earnings ratio. First-year graduates could theoretically pay off their loans in about 18 months of dedicated repayment. However, with only 7 schools offering this program in Pennsylvania and fewer than 30 graduates tracked here, these figures might not paint a complete picture of outcomes.

For a parent weighing this investment, the key question is geography. If your child plans to stay in Pittsburgh or Pennsylvania after graduation, this program performs adequately compared to in-state alternatives. But if they're considering relocating to stronger markets for business communications—or comparing this to Duquesne's other programs—the $38,000 starting salary deserves scrutiny. At 79% admission and with 18% of students on Pell grants, Duquesne isn't particularly selective, which may contribute to the modest outcomes. Consider whether the degree justifies the investment when competing programs nationally deliver 12% higher earnings right out of the gate.