Communication and Media Studies at Eastern Kentucky University

Eastern Kentucky University's Communication and Media Studies program outperforms three-quarters of similar programs nationally, with first-year earnings of $40,429—nearly $5,500 above the national median. Among Kentucky's 22 programs, it sits at the 60th percentile, trailing only the state's flagship schools like UK and Northern Kentucky. The $25,000 in typical debt matches both national and state medians, creating a manageable 0.62 debt-to-earnings ratio that most graduates should be able to handle with conventional repayment plans.

The earnings trajectory looks stable, growing 7% to $43,102 by year four. While not explosive growth, this steady progression suggests graduates are finding decent footing in media, public relations, or corporate communications roles—sectors where Kentucky's lean cost of living makes these salaries stretch further than they would in major media markets. For in-state families paying significantly reduced tuition at EKU, the return on investment improves considerably.

The major caveat: this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, so one exceptional outcome or career path could skew the picture substantially. If your child has strong writing skills and an interest in communications, EKU delivers solid results at a reasonable price point, but verify current program quality through recent alumni contacts before committing.