Communication and Media Studies at Eastern University

Eastern University's Communication and Media Studies program produces concerning early-career earnings, but this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, which means even a few outliers could skew the picture dramatically. That said, the numbers we have paint a challenging picture: first-year graduates earn $25,732, landing this program in just the 5th percentile nationally and 25th percentile among Pennsylvania programs. Even within PA—where this program already underperforms—it trails the state median by $6,600.

The 40% earnings growth to $35,991 by year four suggests graduates eventually find their footing, though they're still earning about $1,000 less than the national median for their field. The debt load of $26,000 is close to national norms, but when you're starting at $25,732, even average debt creates stress. Compare this to stronger Pennsylvania options like Messiah ($45,021) or even Saint Joseph's ($38,024), and the gap becomes harder to justify unless Eastern offers compelling non-financial advantages like specific connections, mentorship, or a faith-based community that matters to your family.

The small sample size is the critical caveat here—this could represent a particularly challenging cohort rather than a systemic pattern. But without more data, you're making a financial bet on incomplete information. If your child is set on Eastern, treat this as a yellow flag: have honest conversations about career plans, consider additional internships or skill-building, and think carefully about taking on even this moderate debt level.